What an IP PIN is and why you might need one

An IP PIN (Identity Protection Personal Identification Number) is a six-digit code the IRS issues to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number. If you've 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 an IP PIN to file your return that year. Without it, the IRS will reject your return.

The IRS does not force you to get an IP PIN — it's optional for most people. But if you've already been notified by the IRS that your account requires one, or if you want to add this layer of protection yourself, you have several ways to request one.

The process is free, and the IRS will send your PIN to you by mail at the address they have on file. You'll need it when you file your tax return, whether you file on paper or electronically.

Key Takeaways

  • You can request an IP PIN through the IRS website using an online tool, by phone at 1-800-908-4490, or by mailing Form 15227 to the IRS.
  • The IRS will mail your IP PIN to the address on file for your Social Security number, so make sure your address is current before you request one.
  • If the IRS has already notified you that your account requires an IP PIN, you must obtain one before filing your return or it will be rejected.
  • The IP PIN is valid for one tax year only; you'll need to request a new one each year if you want to continue using this protection.
  • If you forget your IP PIN before filing, you can call the IRS or use their online tool to retrieve it, but this takes time — request it early in the tax season.

Requesting an IP PIN online through the IRS website

The fastest way to request an IP PIN is through the IRS's online tool at irs.gov/identity-protection-pin. You'll need to verify your identity using information from your tax return or other IRS records. The tool will ask you questions that only you should be able to answer — things like your filing status from a previous year, or details from a return you filed.

If you pass the identity verification, the IRS will tell you immediately whether you're already in their IP PIN program or whether your request has been accepted. You won't receive your actual PIN on the screen — the IRS will mail it to you within two weeks, usually sooner. Write down the confirmation number the tool gives you in case you need to follow up.

This method works best if you have access to a computer and can complete the verification questions. If you get stuck or the tool says it can't verify your identity, you have other options.

Requesting an IP PIN by phone

You can call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 to request an IP PIN. This line is available during normal business hours, Monday through Friday. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready when you call.

The IRS representative will verify your identity over the phone using questions similar to those on the online tool. If you pass verification, they'll confirm that your request has been submitted. Like the online method, you'll receive your actual PIN by mail within two weeks.

Phone lines can have long wait times during tax season, especially in January and February. If you call, try early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak times.

Requesting an IP PIN by mail using Form 15227

If you prefer to request an IP PIN on paper, you can download Form 15227 (Application for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from irs.gov or request it by calling 1-800-829-3676. Fill out the form with your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and current address.

Mail the completed form to the address shown in the form's instructions. The IRS will verify your identity and mail your IP PIN to the address you provide. This method takes longer than online or phone — expect four to six weeks from the time the IRS receives your form.

Use this method if you don't have internet access or if you prefer a paper trail. Keep a copy of the form you mail for your records.

What happens after you request an IP PIN

Once the IRS receives your request, they'll verify your identity using the information you provided. If they can't verify you — for example, if the information doesn't match their records — they'll send you a letter explaining what went wrong and what to do next. This usually means you'll need to provide additional documentation by mail.

If verification is successful, the IRS will mail your IP PIN to the address on file. The PIN is a six-digit number printed on a card or in a letter. Keep this number safe — you'll need it to file your return. If you lose it, you can retrieve it by calling the IRS or using their online tool again, but this takes time.

Your IP PIN is valid only for the tax year it was issued. If you want to use an IP PIN the following year, you'll need to request a new one.

Using your IP PIN when you file your tax return

When you file your return — whether on paper or electronically — you'll be asked to enter your IP PIN. If you're filing electronically through tax software or a tax professional, there will be a specific field for it. If you're filing on paper, write your IP PIN in the space provided on your return.

If you file without entering your IP PIN when one is required, the IRS will reject your return. You'll need to correct it and resubmit. This is why it's important to request your PIN early in the tax season, before you're ready to file.

If you file through a tax professional or use tax software, let them know you have an IP PIN so they can enter it correctly. Some tax software will prompt you for it; others require you to tell the preparer.

What to do if you don't receive your IP PIN in time

If you requested your IP PIN but haven't received it by the time you're ready to file, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. They can look up your PIN and read it to you over the phone, or they can confirm whether your request is still being processed.

If your request was rejected because the IRS couldn't verify your identity, the letter they sent will explain why and what additional information they need. Follow those instructions and resubmit. This may require sending copies of documents like your driver's license or passport.

Do not file your return without your IP PIN if one is required — the IRS will reject it, and you'll have to correct and resubmit it later, which delays any refund you're owed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get an IP PIN, or is it optional?

It's optional unless the IRS has sent you a notice saying your account requires one. If you've been notified, you must obtain an IP PIN before filing or your return will be rejected. If you haven't been notified, you can request one for added protection, but it's not required.

What if the IRS can't verify my identity online or by phone?

If verification fails, the IRS will mail you a letter explaining why and what to do next. Usually you'll need to send copies of documents like a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate by mail. Follow the instructions in the letter exactly. This process takes longer but ensures your identity is confirmed before your PIN is issued.

Can I use the same IP PIN for multiple years?

No. Each IP PIN is valid for one tax year only. If you want to use an IP PIN the following year, you'll need to request a new one. You can request it anytime, but it's best to do so before tax season begins.

What if I lose my IP PIN before I file?

Call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 and they can retrieve it for you. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. They'll read your PIN to you over the phone. Write it down carefully, as you'll need it to file your return.

Can someone else request an IP PIN using my Social Security number?

No. The IRS requires identity verification before issuing an IP PIN, so someone would need to pass verification questions using your personal information. If you suspect someone has requested an IP PIN in your name, contact the IRS immediately at 1-800-908-4490 to report it.