What an IRS Identity Protection PIN is and why you might need one

An IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number the IRS issues to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number. If you have been a victim of identity theft, or if the IRS suspects your account has been compromised, you may receive a notice telling you that you need one. You can also request one yourself if you are concerned about your tax account security.

The PIN works like this: when you file your tax return, you enter it along with your other information. The IRS uses it to verify that the return actually came from you. Without the correct PIN, a fraudster cannot file a return in your name, even if they have your Social Security number and other personal details.

If the IRS has already assigned you an IP PIN because of identity theft on your account, you will receive it by mail in a letter from the IRS. If you want to request one proactively, or if you need to retrieve one you have already been issued, you have a few options depending on your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS mails IP PINs to you by postal mail — there is no online way to receive a new PIN for the first time.
  • If you have already been issued a PIN and need to retrieve it, you can use the IRS online account tool or call the IRS directly.
  • You can request an IP PIN yourself through the IRS website even if you have not been a victim of identity theft.
  • The PIN changes every year, and the IRS will mail you a new one each January if you are enrolled in the program.
  • You must enter your IP PIN when filing your tax return, or the IRS will reject it.

How to request an IP PIN through the IRS website

The IRS offers a tool called IP PIN Request on its website at irs.gov. To use it, go to the IRS homepage, search for "IP PIN," and look for the link to "Get an IP PIN." You will need to verify your identity using either your Social Security number and filing status, or by answering security questions based on your credit history.

The tool will ask you to confirm your name, address, and date of birth. If your identity verification is successful, the IRS will tell you whether you are already enrolled in the IP PIN program. If you are not enrolled and you want to be, you can request one through this tool. However, the PIN itself will not appear on your screen — the IRS will mail it to the address on file within two weeks.

This online request method is the fastest way to start the process, but you still have to wait for the physical PIN to arrive by mail. Do not expect to receive it immediately or to see it in your online IRS account right away.

Retrieving an IP PIN you have already been issued

If you have already been assigned an IP PIN in a previous year and need to find out what it is, you have two main options. The first is to check your IRS online account through the IRS website. Log in with your username and password, navigate to your account dashboard, and look for a section labeled "IP PIN" or "Identity Protection PIN." The current year's PIN should be displayed there.

The second option is to call the IRS directly. The phone number is 1-800-829-1040. Have your Social Security number, filing status, and a copy of your most recent tax return ready when you call. The IRS representative will verify your identity and provide your PIN over the phone. Wait times can be long, especially during tax season, so consider calling early in the morning or later in the week.

If you received an IP PIN by mail but have lost the letter, calling the IRS is often faster than waiting for a replacement letter to arrive.

What to do if you have been a victim of identity theft

If someone has already filed a tax return using your Social Security number, the IRS will typically assign you an IP PIN automatically and mail it to you. You will receive a notice (usually Form 4883-C or a letter) explaining that your account has been flagged and that you now have a PIN. Read this notice carefully and keep it with your tax records.

In addition to getting an IP PIN, you should file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov. The FTC will create an identity theft report that you can share with creditors, banks, and other agencies. You may also want to place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to prevent fraudsters from opening accounts in your name.

When you file your tax return after identity theft, you will need to include your IP PIN. If you do not have it yet, wait until it arrives in the mail before filing. Filing without the PIN when you have been assigned one will cause the IRS to reject your return.

Entering your IP PIN when you file your tax return

When you file your federal tax return — whether you use tax software, a tax professional, or paper forms — you will be asked to enter your IP PIN. Most tax software has a specific field for this. If you are filing on paper using Form 1040, the IP PIN goes on the line marked "IP PIN" near the top of the form.

If you file through a tax professional or certified public accountant (CPA), give them your IP PIN before they prepare your return. They will need it to file electronically. If you forget to provide it and they file without it, the IRS will reject the return and you will have to file an amended return with the PIN included.

The PIN is required every year you are enrolled in the program. The IRS will mail you a new PIN each January for the upcoming tax year. Keep these letters in a safe place so you have the PIN ready when you file.

How long it takes to receive your IP PIN

If you request an IP PIN online through the IRS website, expect to wait 7 to 14 days for it to arrive by mail. If the IRS has assigned you a PIN because of identity theft, the timeline depends on when they discovered the fraud. You may receive it within a few weeks, but it can take longer if the IRS is still investigating your account.

During tax season (January through April), mail delivery may be slower because the IRS processes a higher volume of correspondence. If you need your PIN urgently and have not received it, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and ask them to provide it over the phone. They can often do this if you pass their identity verification.

Plan ahead: if you think you will need an IP PIN for the upcoming tax year, request it in November or December so it arrives before you file in January or February.

IP PIN renewal and what happens if you lose it

Your IP PIN is valid for one tax year only. Each January, the IRS mails a new PIN to you if you are enrolled in the program. The new PIN is for the tax year you are about to file. If you file your return in February using last year's PIN, the IRS will reject it.

If you lose the letter with your PIN before you file, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and they will provide it over the phone. You can also check your IRS online account if you have set one up. Do not delay — if you cannot provide your PIN when you file, your return will be rejected and you will have to resubmit it.

If you no longer want an IP PIN and believe your identity is secure, you can contact the IRS to opt out of the program. However, if you have been a victim of identity theft, the IRS may keep you enrolled for several years as a precaution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my IP PIN immediately online without waiting for the mail?

No. The IRS does not display your PIN on the website or email it to you. When you request an IP PIN online, the IRS mails it to your address on file within 7 to 14 days. If you need it urgently, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and they can provide it over the phone after verifying your identity.

What if I file my tax return without entering my IP PIN?

If you have been assigned an IP PIN and you file without it, the IRS will reject your return. You will receive a notice telling you to resubmit with the PIN included. This delays your refund and can cause confusion with the IRS. Always enter your PIN if you have one.

Do I need an IP PIN if I have never been a victim of identity theft?

You do not need one unless the IRS assigns one to you or you request one yourself. Some people request one proactively for extra security. You can request one through the IRS website even if you have not experienced identity theft. It is optional but available to anyone.

Will my IP PIN work if I file my taxes through a tax professional?

Yes. Give your IP PIN to your tax professional or CPA before they prepare your return. They will enter it when filing electronically. If you forget to provide it and they file without it, the IRS will reject the return and you will need to file an amended return with the PIN included.

What should I do if I never received my IP PIN in the mail?

Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and tell them your PIN did not arrive. They can verify your identity and provide it over the phone. If your address on file with the IRS is incorrect, update it before requesting a replacement PIN so the next one reaches you.