How to Find Your IRS PIN

Your IRS PIN is a six-digit number the IRS assigns to you to verify your identity when you file taxes online or call the IRS

The IRS uses PINs to prevent identity theft and fraud on tax returns. If you have filed electronically before, the IRS already has a PIN on file for you. If you have never filed electronically or do not remember your PIN, you can retrieve it through the IRS website, by phone, or by mail. The method you use depends on whether you have an existing IRS account and how quickly you need the PIN.

Your PIN is different from your Social Security number and your Employer Identification Number (EIN). It is used only for tax filing and identity verification with the IRS. You will need it if you file your return electronically or if you call the IRS to discuss your account.

Key Takeaways

You can retrieve your IRS PIN through the IRS website at IRS.gov, by phone at 1-800-829-1040, or by requesting it by mail.
To use the online method, you must create or log into an IRS online account and answer security questions to verify your identity.
If you do not have an online IRS account, you can call the IRS during business hours and provide personal information to confirm your identity over the phone.
If you file taxes through a tax professional or software, they can often retrieve your PIN for you or help you create a new one.
The IRS mails a new PIN to your address on file if you request one by mail, which takes two to three weeks.

Retrieving Your PIN Through IRS.gov

The fastest way to find your PIN is through your IRS online account at IRS.gov. Go to the IRS website, select "Sign in" or "Create an account," and log in with your username and password. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one by providing your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and address.

Once you are logged in, look for a section labeled "Tax Records" or "Account Information." The IRS displays your PIN in this section if you have filed electronically in the past. If you have never filed electronically, the IRS may not have assigned you a PIN yet, and you will need to use one of the other methods below.

To create an IRS account, you will need to verify your identity by answering security questions or using a third-party identity verification service. The IRS uses this step to prevent unauthorized access to your account. The entire process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Calling the IRS to Request Your PIN

You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time) to request your PIN. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and address ready when you call. The IRS representative will ask you security questions to confirm your identity before providing your PIN.

Wait times can be long, especially during tax season (January through April). If you reach the IRS, the representative can give you your PIN immediately over the phone. If you cannot reach the IRS by phone, try calling early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when wait times are typically shorter.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can use the IRS TTY number at 1-800-829-4059. If you speak a language other than English, the IRS has representatives available in several languages.

Requesting Your PIN by Mail

If you prefer not to use the online account or phone, you can request your PIN by mail. Write a letter to the IRS that includes your name, Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and current address. State that you are requesting your PIN for electronic filing. Mail your letter to the IRS address for your state, which you can find on IRS.gov under "Contact the IRS."

The IRS will mail your PIN to your address on file within two to three weeks. This method is slower than the online or phone options, but it does not require you to create an account or speak to a representative. Keep the envelope the PIN arrives in, as it contains your PIN and other important information.

Using a Tax Professional or Software to Get Your PIN

If you use tax preparation software or work with a tax professional, they can often retrieve your PIN for you. Many tax software programs have a feature that looks up your PIN directly from the IRS during the filing process. If the software cannot find your PIN, it will prompt you to create a new one or retrieve it through one of the methods above.

Tax professionals have access to IRS systems and can request your PIN on your behalf. This is useful if you are uncomfortable using the online account or phone method. Ask your tax professional whether they can retrieve your PIN before you file, so you have it ready if you need it.

What to Do If You Do Not Have a PIN Yet

If you have never filed electronically, the IRS may not have assigned you a PIN. In this case, you can create a new PIN through your IRS online account or by calling 1-800-829-1040. The IRS will generate a new PIN for you and either display it on your account or mail it to you.

If you are filing electronically for the first time, you will need a PIN before you submit your return. Some tax software programs allow you to file without a PIN and will generate one for you during the filing process. Check with your tax software provider or tax professional to see whether this option is available.

Protecting Your PIN

Your PIN is sensitive information and should be treated like a password. Do not share it with anyone except your tax professional or the IRS. Do not write it down in a place where others can find it. If you believe your PIN has been compromised or stolen, contact the IRS immediately at 1-800-829-1040 to request a new one.

The IRS will never ask for your PIN by email or text message. If you receive an email or text claiming to be from the IRS and asking for your PIN, do not respond. This is a common phishing scam. Report the message to the IRS by forwarding it to phishing@irs.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file my taxes without a PIN?

You do not need a PIN to file taxes by mail. If you file electronically, some tax software programs will generate a PIN for you during the filing process if you do not have one. Check with your tax software provider to see whether this option is available.

What if I forgot my IRS account password?

Go to IRS.gov and select "Sign in." Click "Forgot username or password?" and follow the prompts to reset your password. You will need to verify your identity by answering security questions or using a third-party verification service. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

How long does it take to get a PIN by mail?

The IRS mails PINs within two to three weeks of receiving your request. Mail delivery times vary by location, so allow an extra week for the letter to arrive. If you need your PIN sooner, use the online account or phone method instead.

Can someone else retrieve my PIN for me?

Only you, your tax professional, or an authorized representative can retrieve your PIN. The IRS will not provide your PIN to family members or friends, even if they have your permission. If you want someone to help you, give them power of attorney or ask them to work with you while you retrieve it yourself.

What if the IRS website says I do not have a PIN?

If you have never filed electronically, the IRS may not have assigned you a PIN. Call 1-800-829-1040 or request one by mail. The IRS will create a new PIN for you. Some tax software programs can also generate a PIN during the filing process if you do not have one.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.