How to Get Your IRS Identity Protection PIN

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 assigns to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number. If you've been a victim of tax-related identity theft, or if the IRS suspects your account has been compromised, you'll receive a notice telling you that you need one to file your return that year. Without it, your return will be rejected.

The IRS does not hand out IP PINs to everyone — only to people whose tax accounts show signs of fraud or who have already reported identity theft to the agency. If you've never received an IRS notice about this, you likely don't need one yet.

If you do need one, the IRS offers three main ways to get it: online through their secure portal, by phone, or by mail. The fastest route is usually online if you can verify your identity through the IRS system.

Key Takeaways

• You only need an IP PIN if the IRS has notified you that your account requires one, usually because of suspected identity theft or fraud.
• The fastest way to get an IP PIN is through the IRS online portal at irs.gov, which requires you to verify your identity using personal information.
• If you cannot verify your identity online, you can call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 or request one by mail using Form 15227.
• Once you receive your IP PIN, you must enter it on your tax return every year until the IRS tells you it is no longer required.
• The process is free, and the IRS will not ask you to pay a fee or provide payment information to issue your PIN.

Getting your IP PIN online through the IRS portal

The IRS Self-Select IP PIN tool is the fastest way to get your number if you can verify your identity online. Go to irs.gov and look for the "Get an IP PIN" section under the "Individuals" tab. You'll be asked to enter your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and other personal information that only you would know.

The system will ask you questions based on your credit history and financial records — things like previous addresses, loan amounts, or credit card details. Answer these correctly and the IRS will issue your IP PIN immediately. You can print it or save it to your device right away. Write it down somewhere safe; you'll need it every time you file until the IRS tells you otherwise.

If the online tool cannot verify your identity — because your information doesn't match IRS records or because you don't have enough credit history — you'll be directed to other options. This is common and does not mean you've done anything wrong.

Requesting your IP PIN by phone

If you cannot verify your identity online, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. This line is specifically for IP PIN requests and identity theft issues. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and a copy of your most recent tax return ready before you call.

The IRS representative will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your personal and financial history. If you pass verification, they can issue your IP PIN over the phone and read it to you. Write it down immediately and keep it in a safe place.

Wait times on this line can be long, especially during tax season (January through April). Call early in the morning or later in the afternoon for shorter waits. The line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time.

Requesting your IP PIN by mail

If you prefer not to call or use the online tool, you can request your IP PIN by mail using Form 15227 (Application for an IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Download it from irs.gov, fill it out completely, and mail it to the address shown on the form. Include a copy of your government-issued photo ID and proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form).

The IRS will mail your IP PIN to the address on file with them, usually within two to four weeks. This is the slowest method, so use it only if you cannot verify your identity online or by phone, or if you're not comfortable with those options.

Keep copies of everything you send. If your PIN doesn't arrive within the timeframe the IRS gives you, call 1-800-908-4490 to check the status.

What to do once you have your IP PIN

Once you receive your IP PIN, you must enter it on your tax return every year until the IRS notifies you that you no longer need one. If you file electronically, your tax software will have a field for it. If you file on paper, write it in the space marked "IP PIN" on your return.

Do not share your IP PIN with anyone except a tax professional you hire to prepare your return. The IRS will never ask you for it by email, phone, or text. If someone contacts you asking for your IP PIN, it is a scam.

If you lose your IP PIN before filing, you can get a replacement by using the same methods: online, by phone, or by mail. You do not need to wait until the next year.

What happens if you file without your IP PIN

If the IRS has assigned you an IP PIN and you file your return without entering it, your return will be rejected. You'll receive a notice from the IRS explaining that your PIN is required. At that point, you'll need to get your PIN and file an amended return or resubmit your original return with the PIN included.

This delay can push back your refund by several weeks. To avoid this, verify whether you need an IP PIN before you start preparing your return. Check your most recent IRS notice or call 1-800-908-4490 to confirm.

Protecting yourself from future identity theft

If you needed an IP PIN because of identity theft, take steps to protect your information going forward. Place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Monitor your credit report regularly for unauthorized accounts or inquiries.

File your tax return as early as possible each year — scammers often file fraudulent returns early in the season to claim refunds before you do. Keep your Social Security number private, shred documents with personal information, and use strong passwords on accounts that hold sensitive data.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The IRS only issues IP PINs to people whose accounts show signs of fraud or who have reported identity theft. If you haven't received an IRS notice about it, you don't need one. You can call 1-800-908-4490 to confirm whether your account requires one.

Can I get an IP PIN before I need one, just to be safe?

No. The IRS does not issue IP PINs preemptively. You can only request one after the IRS has determined that your account needs protection. However, you can take other steps to protect your identity, like monitoring your credit and placing a fraud alert with credit bureaus.

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

You can request your IP PIN by mail using Form 15227. Include a copy of your government-issued photo ID and proof of your Social Security number. The IRS will mail your PIN to your address on file within two to four weeks.

Will the IRS charge me for an IP PIN?

No. Getting an IP PIN is free. The IRS will never ask you to pay a fee or provide payment information. If someone asks you to pay for an IP PIN, it is a scam.

What if I lose my IP PIN before tax season?

You can get a replacement using the same methods: online at irs.gov, by phone at 1-800-908-4490, or by mail with Form 15227. You don't have to wait until the next year to request a new one.