How to Get Your IRS Identity Protection PIN

What an IRS PIN is and why you might need it

An IRS Identity Protection 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, the IRS may have issued you one automatically. If you haven't received one but want to request it, you can get it through the IRS website or by phone.

The PIN works like this: when you file your return, you enter it alongside your Social Security number. The IRS checks that the PIN matches their records. If a thief tries to file under your name without the correct PIN, their return gets rejected. You'll need the PIN every year once you have one — it doesn't expire until the IRS tells you it's no longer necessary.

Not everyone needs an IRS PIN. You only need one if the IRS has notified you of identity theft, or if you want to request one as a precaution. If you've never had identity theft issues and the IRS hasn't contacted you, you can file without one.

Key Takeaways

You can retrieve your IRS PIN through the IRS website at irs.gov using your login credentials, or by calling the IRS at 1-800-908-4490.
If you've been notified of identity theft by the IRS, you should have received a letter with your PIN or instructions on how to get it.
The IRS website method is fastest — you can see your PIN immediately if you have an existing account or can create one.
If you call the IRS, have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready, and expect to wait on hold.
Once you have your PIN, you'll enter it on your tax return every year until the IRS notifies you that you no longer need it.

Retrieving your PIN through the IRS website

The fastest way to get your PIN is through the IRS website. Go to irs.gov and look for the "Get Your IP PIN" tool. You'll need to log in with an existing IRS account or create one using your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and filing status.

Once you're logged in, the tool will display your six-digit PIN immediately if one has been issued to you. If the IRS has not issued you a PIN yet, the tool will tell you that. Write down your PIN somewhere safe — not on a sticky note on your monitor, but in a password manager or a locked document. You'll need it when you file.

If you can't remember your IRS login password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page. The IRS will send you a reset link to your email address. This process usually takes a few minutes.

Calling the IRS to retrieve your PIN

If you prefer to speak to someone or can't access the website, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. This is the dedicated line for identity protection PIN requests. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current mailing address ready before you call.

Wait times are often long, especially during tax season (January through April). Call early in the morning or late in the week if you can. When you reach an agent, tell them you need to retrieve your IP PIN. They'll verify your identity and provide the number over the phone. Ask them to repeat it back to you so you write it down correctly.

If you're deaf or hard of hearing, the IRS offers TTY service at 1-800-829-4059. If English is not your first language, interpreters are available on the phone line at no cost.

What to do if you don't remember receiving your PIN

If the IRS issued you a PIN because of identity theft, they should have mailed you a letter explaining it. Check your mail carefully — look for anything from the IRS with your name on it. The letter will either include your PIN or tell you how to retrieve it online.

If you can't find the letter and the IRS website tool says no PIN has been issued to you, call 1-800-908-4490 to confirm your status. It's possible the letter was lost in the mail, or the PIN was issued under a different address if you've moved recently. The IRS can verify whether you should have one and issue a replacement if needed.

If you've moved since the IRS sent the letter, update your address with the IRS before calling. You can do this on irs.gov or by mailing Form 8822 to the address listed on the form.

Entering your PIN when you file

When you file your tax return — whether you use tax software, a tax professional, or paper forms — you'll be asked for your IP PIN. Enter the six-digit number exactly as the IRS gave it to you. If you use tax software, there's usually a field labeled "IP PIN" or "Identity Protection PIN" on the main return screen.

If you file with a tax professional, give them your PIN before they prepare your return. They'll enter it for you. If you file on paper, write your PIN in the space provided on the form (usually on the first page of Form 1040 or your state return).

Don't lose your PIN. You'll need it every year until the IRS tells you otherwise. If you lose it, you can retrieve it again using the same methods — the IRS website or the phone line.

If someone filed a return using your name

If you discover that someone has already filed a tax return in your name, contact the IRS immediately at 1-800-908-4490. Tell them you are a victim of identity theft and that a fraudulent return was filed. The IRS will flag your account and issue you an IP PIN to prevent it from happening again.

You'll also want to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. This creates an official record of the theft and may help you if the thief's actions affect your credit or finances. Keep copies of everything — your report, the IRS letter, and any correspondence with the IRS.

Filing your own legitimate return after identity theft can take longer because the IRS will review it more carefully. Don't be alarmed if you don't receive your refund as quickly as usual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file my tax return without an IP PIN if I have one?

No. Once the IRS has issued you an IP PIN, you must enter it on your return every year. If you file without it, the IRS will reject your return. If you've lost your PIN, retrieve it before you file.

How long does it take to get an IP PIN if I request one?

If you use the IRS website, you'll see your PIN immediately. If you call, the agent will give it to you during the call. If the IRS issues one to you because of identity theft, they mail it to you, which usually takes one to two weeks.

What if the IRS website says I don't have an IP PIN?

It means the IRS has not issued one to you. You can still file your return without one unless you've been notified of identity theft. If you believe you should have one, call 1-800-908-4490 to confirm.

Can I change my IP PIN if I think someone knows it?

Yes. Call 1-800-908-4490 and tell the agent you need a new PIN. They'll verify your identity and issue a replacement. You'll use the new PIN on your next return.

Do I need an IP PIN if I file through a tax professional?

Yes, if the IRS has issued you one. Give your PIN to your tax professional before they prepare your return, and they'll enter it for you.

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.