What an IRS Identity PIN is and why you need one

An IRS Identity PIN is a six-digit number the IRS assigns 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 account has been compromised, they may require you to use this PIN when you file. Without it, your return will be rejected.

The PIN is different from your Social Security number or any PIN you use for banking. It's specific to your tax account and changes each year if the IRS issues one to you. You'll need to enter it in a specific field on your tax return — the software you use or a tax professional will know where it goes.

The IRS doesn't send these PINs by mail to most people. You have to request one yourself, or the IRS will assign one to you if they detect fraud on your account and send you a notice about it.

Key Takeaways

  • You can create an IRS Identity PIN through your IRS.gov account if you've set up online access with a username and password.
  • If you don't have an IRS.gov account, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and request one over the phone.
  • The IRS may assign you a PIN automatically if they've detected identity theft on your account and will notify you by mail.
  • You'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status to request a PIN through either method.
  • If the IRS has already assigned you a PIN due to fraud, you must use it on your return or it will be rejected.

Creating a PIN through IRS.gov

The fastest way to get an Identity PIN is through your IRS.gov account. Go to IRS.gov, select "Sign in" in the upper right, and log in with your username and password. If you don't have an account yet, you'll need to create one — the IRS uses a third-party service to verify your identity, which usually takes a few minutes.

Once you're logged in, look for "Tax records" or "Account" in the menu. From there, you should see an option to view or create your Identity PIN. The IRS will display it on screen immediately. Write it down or take a screenshot, because you'll need it when you file your return.

This method works only if you can successfully log into IRS.gov. If you're having trouble setting up an account or logging in, move to the phone method instead.

Requesting a PIN by phone

Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time). Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready. Tell the representative you want to request an Identity PIN.

The IRS will verify your identity by asking questions about your tax history or personal information. Once verified, they can issue you a PIN over the phone. Write down the number immediately and keep it in a safe place.

Wait times can be long, especially during tax season (January through April). If you reach a busy signal, try calling early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

When the IRS assigns a PIN to you automatically

If the IRS detects that someone has filed a return using your Social Security number, or if they suspect fraud on your account, they will assign you an Identity PIN without you asking for one. You'll receive a notice in the mail — usually Notice 5071C or a similar letter — that explains the situation and provides your PIN.

Read the notice carefully. It will tell you whether you must use the PIN on your next return. In most cases, if the IRS has assigned you a PIN due to fraud, using it is mandatory. If you don't include it on your return, the IRS will reject your filing.

Keep this notice and your PIN in a safe place. You may need to reference it if you file with a tax professional or use tax software.

What to do if you've lost your PIN

If you received a PIN from the IRS but can't find it, you can request a new one through IRS.gov or by calling 1-800-829-1040. You'll need to verify your identity again, but the process is the same as getting one for the first time.

If you're close to the tax filing deadline and can't reach the IRS or retrieve your PIN, contact a tax professional. They may be able to file on your behalf or help you work with the IRS to resolve the issue before your return is due.

Using your PIN when you file

When you file your return — whether through tax software, a tax professional, or by mail — you'll be asked to enter your Identity PIN. Tax software usually has a field labeled "Identity PIN" or "Self-Selected PIN" on the main return screen. Enter the six-digit number exactly as the IRS gave it to you.

If you're working with a tax professional, give them your PIN before they prepare your return. They'll enter it for you. If you're filing by paper, write the PIN in the space provided on the form.

Do not file your return without the PIN if the IRS has assigned one to you. The return will be rejected, and you'll have to resubmit it, which delays any refund you're owed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Most taxpayers don't need one. You only need to request one if you're concerned about fraud, or if the IRS has notified you that they've assigned one to your account. If you haven't received a notice from the IRS, you don't need to get one.

Can I use the same PIN every year?

No. If the IRS assigns you a PIN, it changes each year. You'll need to request a new one annually through IRS.gov or by phone. The IRS will notify you by mail if they've assigned you a new PIN for the upcoming tax year.

What if I enter the wrong PIN on my return?

Your return will be rejected. The IRS will send you a notice explaining the error. You'll need to correct the PIN and resubmit your return. If this happens close to the deadline, contact the IRS or a tax professional for help.

Can someone else request my PIN for me?

No. The IRS will only issue a PIN to the person whose Social Security number it's tied to. You must request it yourself through IRS.gov or by calling 1-800-829-1040. A tax professional cannot request one on your behalf.