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've been a victim of identity theft, or if the IRS suspects your Social Security number has been compromised, they may issue you a PIN automatically. You can also request one yourself if you want extra protection against tax-related fraud.

The PIN works like this: when you file your return, you enter it on the form 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 Social Security number, even if they have stolen other personal details.

You'll need your PIN every year you have one. The IRS issues a new PIN each tax year, usually in January or February. If you lose it or forget it before you file, you can retrieve it online or by phone.

Key Takeaways

  • You can request an IP PIN through the IRS website using your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status, or by calling the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit.
  • The IRS automatically issues PINs to people who have reported identity theft or whose information appears in a data breach.
  • If you already have a PIN and need to retrieve it before filing, use the IRS online tool or call 1-800-908-4490.
  • You must enter your PIN on your tax return every year you have one, or the IRS will reject your return.
  • The process is free and takes a few minutes if you have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready.

How to request an IP PIN online

The fastest way to request an IP PIN is through the IRS website. Go to irs.gov and search for "IP PIN" to find the Self-Selected IP PIN tool. You'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.), and a valid mailing address on file with the IRS.

The tool will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions based on your credit history or by uploading a photo of your ID. Once you pass verification, the IRS will issue your PIN immediately and display it on screen. Write it down or take a screenshot — you'll need it when you file your return.

If the online tool tells you that you're not may be able to access to use it, it usually means the IRS already issued you a PIN, or your identity could not be verified through the available methods. In that case, move to the phone method or check your mail.

How to request an IP PIN by phone

Call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready. The IRS representative will verify your identity by asking questions about your tax history or personal information.

Wait times can be long, especially during tax season (January through April). Call early in the morning or later in the afternoon for shorter hold times. If you reach a representative, they can issue your PIN over the phone and provide it verbally, or they can mail it to you.

If the representative mails your PIN, it typically arrives within 5 to 7 business days. Plan ahead if you're close to the filing deadline.

If the IRS already issued you a PIN

The IRS automatically sends a PIN to people who have reported identity theft to the agency or whose information was exposed in a known data breach. If this happened to you, you'll receive a letter in the mail (usually Form 4883-C) with your PIN and instructions for using it.

Keep this letter in a safe place. You'll need the PIN every year until the IRS tells you that you no longer need one. The IRS typically continues issuing PINs for three years after an identity theft report, but this can vary depending on your situation.

If you received a PIN letter but lost it, use the online retrieval tool or call 1-800-908-4490 to get your current PIN.

How to retrieve a PIN you already have

If you know you have a PIN but can't find it, use the IRS online tool at irs.gov to retrieve it. Search for "Get Your IP PIN" and use the same verification process as requesting a new one. The tool will display your current PIN on screen.

Alternatively, call 1-800-908-4490 and a representative can look up your PIN and read it to you over the phone. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready.

Do not share your PIN with anyone, including IRS representatives who contact you. The IRS will never ask for your PIN by phone, email, or text message.

What to do when you file your return with a PIN

When you file your tax return — whether by mail or electronically — you must include your IP PIN. If you file electronically, the tax software will have a field for it. If you file by mail, write your PIN in the space provided on the form (usually Form 1040 or your state's equivalent).

If you have a PIN and do not enter it on your return, the IRS will reject your return and send it back to you. This delays your refund and can create confusion. Double-check that you've entered it correctly before submitting.

If you file before your PIN arrives in the mail, you can amend your return once you receive it. Use Form 1040-X (Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return) to add the PIN and resubmit.

What happens if you lose or forget your PIN before filing

If you're close to the filing deadline and cannot retrieve your PIN in time, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 immediately. Explain that you need your PIN to file. The representative may be able to provide it over the phone or expedite a mailed copy.

If you absolutely cannot get your PIN before the deadline, you can file without it — but your return will be rejected. You'll then need to resubmit with the PIN once you have it. This creates delays and can push back your refund by weeks.

The safest approach is to retrieve or request your PIN at least two weeks before you plan to file, especially during tax season when IRS phone lines are busy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IP PIN if I've never had identity theft?

No, but you can request one for extra protection. Many people choose to do this if they're concerned about fraud or if they've heard about data breaches affecting their information. The IRS will only automatically issue one if you've reported identity theft or your data was exposed in a known breach.

Can someone else use my PIN to file a fraudulent return?

No. The PIN is tied to your Social Security number and date of birth. A fraudster would need all three pieces of information to file using your PIN. Keep your PIN private and never share it, even if someone claims to be from the IRS.

What if I file my return and then realize I entered the wrong PIN?

The IRS will reject your return. Contact the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 to confirm your correct PIN, then file an amended return (Form 1040-X) with the correct PIN. This will delay your refund, so it's worth double-checking before you submit.

How long does it take to get an IP PIN?

If you use the online tool, you get it immediately. If you call and the IRS mails it to you, allow 5 to 7 business days. If the IRS automatically issued you one due to identity theft, it arrives by mail within a few weeks of your report.

Will I need an IP PIN every year?

Yes, as long as you have one. The IRS issues a new PIN each tax year. You'll receive it in the mail or can retrieve it online using the same process. If the IRS stops issuing you a PIN, they'll send you a letter explaining why.