Obtaining an IRS Identity Protection PIN

Overview

This provides information about the proper methods of obtaining an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Identity Protection (IP) PIN.  An IRS IP PIN is a six-digit number assigned by the IRS to eligible taxpayers to help prevent the misuse of their Social Security numbers on fraudulent federal income tax returns.  The purpose of the IRS IP PIN program is to add an additional layer of protection for taxpayers who live in areas where tax-related identity theft is more prevalent. However, this program is not limited to identity theft victims.

Important: You currently cannot “opt-out” once you get an IP PIN.  You must use an IP PIN to confirm your identity on all federal tax returns you file this year and in subsequent tax years.  If you e-file your return and your IP PIN is missing or incorrect, the IRS will reject your tax return.

Eligibility

You must get an IP PIN to file your current or prior year returns if:

  • You received a CP01A Notice from the IRS with your new IP PIN and you lost it, or
  • You had an IP PIN in a prior tax year and you didn’t receive a new one this year, or
  • Your e-filed return was rejected because your IP PIN was missing or incorrect

You may choose to get an IP PIN if:

  • You received an IRS letter inviting you to “opt-in” to get an IP PIN, or
  • You filed your federal tax return last year with an address in Florida, Georgia, or the
  • District of Columbia

Visit the IRS FAQs about the IP PIN for more information.

Procedures

  1. Verify your identity online using the IRS online IP PIN system at https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Get-An-Identity-Protection-PIN
  2. Have immediate access to your email account to receive a confirmation code
  3. If you are eligible, you will receive your IP PIN online once the IRS verifies your identity
  4. The IRS will send you a new IP PIN by postal mail each year in late December or early January
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