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 in your name. If you have been a victim of tax-related identity theft, or if the IRS suspects your Social Security number has been compromised, you may receive a notice telling you that you need an IP PIN to file. You can also request one even if you have not been a victim yet, as a preventive measure.

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

If the IRS has already assigned you an IP PIN because of identity theft, you must use it to file — you cannot file without it. If you are requesting one as a precaution, the process is different and optional.

Key Takeaways

  • If the IRS sent you a notice about identity theft, you must get your IP PIN before you can file your tax return.
  • You can request an IP PIN online through the IRS website, by phone, or by mail, depending on whether you are a victim of identity theft or requesting one preventively.
  • The IRS mails IP PINs to the address on file, so allow two to four weeks for delivery if you request one by phone or mail.
  • If you lose or forget your IP PIN, you can retrieve it online through your IRS account or by calling the IRS.
  • You will need your IP PIN every year once you have one — it does not expire after one tax season.

Getting an IP PIN if you are a victim of identity theft

If the IRS has notified you that your Social Security number was used to file a fraudulent return or that your account shows signs of identity theft, the IRS will issue you an IP PIN automatically. You will receive a notice in the mail (usually Form 5071C or a letter) telling you that an IP PIN has been assigned to you. Read this notice carefully — it will tell you what your PIN is, or it will tell you how to retrieve it.

If the notice tells you to retrieve your PIN online, go to irs.gov and look for the "Get an IP PIN" tool. You will need to verify your identity by answering security questions or providing information from your tax return. Once you verify, the tool will display your PIN on screen. Write it down immediately and keep it somewhere safe.

If the notice does not give you a way to retrieve it online, or if you do not receive a notice at all but believe you are a victim, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready. The IRS will verify your identity and either give you your PIN over the phone or tell you how to retrieve it online.

Requesting an IP PIN as a preventive measure

You do not have to wait until you are a victim of identity theft to get an IP PIN. The IRS allows anyone to request one in advance. This is called preventive IP PIN enrollment, and it is available to all taxpayers.

To request a preventive IP PIN, go to irs.gov and use the "Get an IP PIN" tool. You will need to verify your identity using security questions or tax return information. If you are successful, the tool will display your PIN immediately. If you cannot verify online, you can call 1-800-908-4490 and request one over the phone. The IRS will mail it to you within two to four weeks.

Once you have a preventive IP PIN, you will need to use it every year when you file. The PIN does not expire after one tax season — you keep it and use it for future years as well.

Retrieving a PIN you already have

If you were issued an IP PIN in a previous year and you still have it, you do not need to request a new one. Use the same PIN when you file this year. However, if you have lost it or cannot remember it, you can retrieve it without requesting a new one.

Go to irs.gov and use the "Get an IP PIN" tool. Verify your identity, and the tool will show you your existing PIN. You can also call 1-800-908-4490 and ask the IRS to provide your PIN over the phone. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready.

Do not assume your PIN has expired or that you need a new one. The same PIN is valid year after year unless the IRS tells you otherwise.

What to do if you cannot verify your identity online

The IRS online tool requires you to answer security questions or provide details from a previous tax return. If you cannot answer the questions or do not have that information, you will not be able to retrieve your PIN online. In this case, call 1-800-908-4490.

When you call, the IRS will ask you to verify your identity in other ways, such as providing your address, filing status, or other personal details. If you pass verification, they will give you your PIN over the phone. If you do not pass, they will tell you to request the PIN by mail instead. To request by mail, fill out Form 15227 and send it to the address listed on the form. The IRS will mail your PIN to you within two to four weeks.

Using your IP PIN when you file

When you file your tax return — whether online, by mail, or with a tax preparer — you will be asked to enter your IP PIN. If you are filing online using tax software, there is usually a field labeled "IP PIN" or "Identity Protection PIN." Enter all six digits. If you are filing by mail, write your IP PIN in the space provided on the form.

If you are working with a tax preparer or accountant, give them your IP PIN before they file. They will need it to submit your return. Do not share your IP PIN with anyone except your tax preparer or the IRS.

If you file without your IP PIN when you are required to have one, the IRS will reject your return. You will have to resubmit it with the PIN included.

What happens if you forget your PIN on tax day

If you are ready to file but cannot find your IP PIN, do not panic. You have options. First, try to retrieve it online using the IRS tool at irs.gov. This usually works within minutes. If that does not work, call 1-800-908-4490. The IRS phone lines are busiest in March and April, so you may wait on hold, but they can give you your PIN over the phone.

If you cannot reach the IRS and your filing deadline is approaching, you can file for an extension using Form 4868. This gives you until October 15 to file. However, if you owe taxes, you still need to pay by the original April deadline to avoid penalties and interest. Once you have your IP PIN, you can file your actual return before the October deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use my IP PIN every year?

Yes. Once the IRS issues you an IP PIN, you must use it every year when you file. It does not expire after one tax season. You will keep the same PIN for multiple years unless the IRS tells you it has changed.

What if someone files a return using my Social Security number before I get my IP PIN?

If a fraudulent return is filed before you receive your PIN, the IRS will detect the duplicate return when you try to file with your PIN. Contact the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 to report the fraud. The IRS will investigate and correct your account. You may also want to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov.

Can I file my return if I do not have my IP PIN yet?

If the IRS has told you that you need an IP PIN, you cannot file without it. Your return will be rejected. If you are waiting for your PIN to arrive by mail, retrieve it online or call the IRS instead of waiting. If you cannot get it in time, file for an extension using Form 4868.

Is there a cost to get an IP PIN?

No. The IRS does not charge for IP PINs. If a website or service claims to charge you for an IP PIN, it is a scam. The only legitimate way to get an IP PIN is through irs.gov or by calling the IRS directly.

What if the IRS says my identity cannot be verified online?

If the online tool cannot verify you, you will be told to request your IP PIN by mail using Form 15227. Mail the form to the address provided, and the IRS will send your PIN within two to four weeks. Alternatively, call 1-800-908-4490 and ask to verify your identity by phone.