How to Get Your IRS Identity Protection PIN

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

An 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. You enter it on your return each year instead of using your Social Security number as your sole identifier. The IRS does not send these out automatically — you request one through their website or by mail.

You may want an IP PIN if you have been a victim of tax-related identity theft, if the IRS notified you that your information was compromised, or if you want extra protection even though you have not been targeted yet. Once you have one, you must use it every year you file, or the IRS will reject your return.

Getting an IP PIN is free. The IRS issues them year by year, so you will need to request a new one each tax season if you want to keep using one.

Key Takeaways

You request an IP PIN through IRS.gov using your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status, or by mailing Form 15227 to the IRS.
The online method through IRS.gov is faster and gives you the PIN immediately if you pass identity verification.
If you cannot verify your identity online, you can request the PIN by mail, which takes several weeks.
Once you have an IP PIN, you must enter it on your tax return every year, or the IRS will reject the return.
IP PINs are issued for one tax year at a time and do not carry over, so you will need to request a new one each year.

Getting an IP PIN online through IRS.gov

The fastest way to get an IP PIN is through the IRS website. Go to IRS.gov and look for the "Get an IP PIN" tool in the security section. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, 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 other records. If you pass verification, the IRS will display your IP PIN on the screen immediately. Write it down or take a screenshot — you will need it when you file your return.

If you cannot verify your identity online, the system will tell you and offer the mailing option instead. This happens most often if you have limited credit history, have recently moved, or if your information does not match IRS records.

Requesting an IP PIN by mail

If you cannot verify your identity online, you can request an IP PIN by mailing Form 15227 (Application for an IRS Identity Protection PIN) to the IRS. You can download the form from IRS.gov or call 1-800-829-1040 to request a copy by mail.

Fill out the form with your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and current mailing address. Sign and date it, then mail it to the address shown on the form. The address varies by state, so check the form itself for the correct location.

Processing by mail takes four to six weeks. The IRS will mail your IP PIN to the address you provided. During this time, do not file your return — wait until you receive the PIN and then file with it included.

What to do if you do not receive your IP PIN in time

If you requested an IP PIN by mail and the tax deadline is approaching, you have two options. You can file your return without the IP PIN and include a statement explaining that you requested one but did not receive it in time. Attach a copy of your mailing receipt or Form 15227 to show you made the request.

Alternatively, you can request an extension to file your return. Form 4868 gives you until October 15 to file. This buys time for your IP PIN to arrive. You can file Form 4868 online through IRS.gov or by mail.

If you file without the PIN and the IRS has issued one in your name, your return may be delayed while the IRS sorts out the discrepancy. Including documentation of your request helps speed this up.

Using your IP PIN when you file

Once you have your IP PIN, you must enter it on your tax return every year. The location depends on which form you use. On Form 1040 (the main individual return), there is a line labeled "IP PIN" near the top. Enter your six-digit number there.

If you file electronically through tax software or a tax preparer, the software will prompt you to enter the IP PIN. If you file by mail, write it clearly on the form in the space provided.

If you have an IP PIN but do not enter it on your return, the IRS will reject the return. You will have to file again with the PIN included. This is why keeping your PIN in a safe place — written down or saved in a password manager — matters.

Renewing your IP PIN each year

IP PINs are issued for one tax year only. If you want to use one for the next tax year, you must request a new one. The process is the same: go to IRS.gov and use the online tool, or mail Form 15227.

The IRS typically opens IP PIN requests in late fall, around October or November, for the upcoming tax year. If you have been issued an IP PIN before and the IRS has your information on file, the online verification process is usually faster the second time.

If you do not request a new IP PIN for the next year and you file without one, your return will be rejected if the IRS still has an IP PIN associated with your account. Contact the IRS to confirm whether you still need one before filing.

What to do if someone filed a return using your name

If you discover that someone filed a tax return in your name without your permission, contact the IRS immediately. Call 1-800-829-1040 and explain the situation. The IRS has a process for handling tax identity theft and can freeze your account to prevent further fraudulent filings.

You will likely be issued an IP PIN as part of the resolution. The IRS may also send you a letter with instructions on how to file your legitimate return. Keep records of all communication with the IRS about the theft.

File your own return as soon as you are able, even if the fraudulent one was already processed. The IRS will sort out which return is legitimate based on your documentation and the timeline of events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IP PIN if I have never been a victim of identity theft?

Yes. You do not have to wait for theft to happen. Anyone can request an IP PIN for extra protection. Some people request one every year as a preventive measure, especially if they work in fields where their personal information is at higher risk.

What happens if I lose my IP PIN before I file?

You can request a new one through IRS.gov or by mailing Form 15227 again. If you are close to the filing deadline and cannot get a new one in time, you can file with a statement explaining the situation and include proof that you requested the PIN.

Do I need an IP PIN if I use a tax preparer?

Yes. Even if someone else prepares your return, you must provide them with your IP PIN if you have one. They will enter it on the return before filing. If you do not give them the PIN and the IRS has one on file, your return will be rejected.

Can my spouse and I share an IP PIN?

No. Each person has their own Social Security number and their own IP PIN. If you file jointly, you each need your own PIN and both must be entered on the return.

What if the IRS website says I cannot verify my identity online?

This usually means your information does not match IRS records closely enough for the automated system to confirm who you are. Mail Form 15227 instead. You can also call 1-800-829-1040 to discuss other options or to ask whether there is an issue with your account.

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.