How Can I Get My IP PIN from the IRS Online?

IRS Identity Protection Personal Identification Numbers (IP PINs) protect taxpayers’ Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) against fraudulent use. Based on official IRS information, here is an updated guide.

What is an IP PIN?

IP PINs are six-digit numbers assigned by the IRS to eligible taxpayers. As an additional layer of identity protection, this number ensures that the rightful taxpayer is filing their tax return. Forms such as 1040, 1040-NR, 1040-PR, 1040-SR, and 1040-SS require it. Every year, taxpayers receive a new IP PIN.

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Who is Eligiblefor an IP PIN?

The IP PIN program is open to anyone with an SSN or ITIN who can verify their identity. The program is automatically enrolled for victims of identity theft.

How to Join the IP PIN Program

• Fastest Option: Enroll through the IRS Online Account. Select one of two enrollment options after logging in:
  1. Continuous Enrollment – Participate in the program for the current and future years.
  2. One-Time Enrollment – Opt out automatically at the end of the calendar year.
• Other Options:
  1. Form 15227 – Individuals with an adjusted gross income below $84,000 (or $168,000 for married couples filing jointly).
  2. Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC): To schedule an appointment, call 844-545-5640 or use the Taxpayer Assistance Locator tool.

Lost or Missing IP PIN

The following steps should be taken if you lose your IP PIN or did not receive it:

• After verifying your identity, you can access it through your IRS Online Account.
• For assistance, please call 800-908-4490. Within 21 days, you will receive a new IP PIN.

Filing with an IP PIN

• E-filing: To avoid rejection, make sure the IP PIN is entered correctly. Tax software guides this process.
• Paper Filing: Place the IP PIN in the signature area of the tax form. Paper returns do not require dependent IP PINs.

Scenarios Requiring an IP PIN

• Rejected Returns: If your return is rejected because the IP PIN is incorrect or missing, retrieve the correct number and file another return.
• Identity Theft Cases: The IRS might assign you a PIN if you’ve reported identity theft.

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Key Details and FAQs

1. Annual Updates: IP PINs are renewed annually to ensure continued protection.
2. Dependents: If applicable, include your dependent’s IP PIN on Form 1040.
3. Deceased Individuals: A deceased individual’s IP PIN must be used when filing.
4. Opting Out: Participants in continuous enrollment cannot opt out, but others will be automatically removed at the end of the calendar year.
5. Timelines: CP01A notices are sent from mid-December to early January. Online registrants won’t receive a mailed notice and must retrieve their IP PIN online every year.

Security Reminder

Please do not share your IP PIN with anyone other than your tax preparer. Also, do not include it on state tax forms unless specifically instructed.

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Why Use an IP PIN?

By using an IP PIN, you prevent unauthorized individuals from using your identity to file tax returns. It doesn’t expedite refunds, but it enhances tax information security.

Stay Protected: Get an IRS IP PIN today to protect your tax identity. You can learn more about the IRS IP PIN Program by visiting its official website.