Preventing Tax Fraud with an IP PIN
Tax fraud cases have increased significantly in recent years. If you want to add an extra layer of identity protection, you might consider getting an IRS Identity Protection PIN. An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number. The IP PIN is known only to you and the IRS and helps to verify your identity when you file your electronic or paper tax return.
Starting in January of 2022, you may voluntarily opt into the IP PIN program as a proactive way to protect yourself from tax-related identity theft when filing your 2021 tax return next year.
If you want to opt in, please note:
You must pass a rigorous identity verification process.
Spouses and dependents are eligible for an IP PIN if they can pass the identity proofing process.
How to get an IP PIN
If you’re a confirmed identity theft victim, the IRS will mail you an IP PIN on a CP01A Notice if your case is resolved prior to the start of the next filing season.
If you’re volunteering for the IP PIN Opt-In Program you should use the online Get an IP PIN tool. If you don’t already have an account on IRS.gov, you must register to validate your identity. Before you register, read about the secure access identity authentication process. Note:
An IP PIN is valid for one calendar year.
You must obtain a new IP PIN each year.
The IP PIN tool is generally unavailable mid-November through mid-January each year.
Here are a few things taxpayers should know about the IP PIN:
It's a six-digit number known only to the taxpayer and the IRS.
The opt-in program is voluntary.
The IP PIN should be entered onto the electronic tax return when prompted by the software product or onto a paper return next to the signature line.
The IP PIN is valid for one calendar year; taxpayers must obtain a new IP PIN each year.
Only dependents who can verify their identities may obtain an IP PIN.
IP PIN users should never share their number with anyone but the IRS and their trusted tax preparation provider. The IRS will never call, email or text a request for the IP PIN.
Currently, taxpayers may obtain an IP PIN for 2021, which should be used when filing any federal tax returns during the year. New IP PINs will be available starting in January 2022.
To obtain an IP PIN, the best option is the Get an IP PIN, the IRS online tool. Taxpayers must validate their identities through Secure Access authentication to access the tool and their IP PIN. Before attempting this rigorous process, see Secure Access: How to Register for Certain Online Self-Help Tools. The tool is offline between November and January.
If you are unable to validate your identity online and if your income is $72,000 or less, you may file Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number PDF. The IRS will call the telephone number provided on Form 15227 to validate your identity. However, for security reasons, the IRS will assign an IP PIN for the next filing season. The IP PIN cannot be used for the current filing season.
Taxpayers who cannot validate their identities online, or on the phone with an IRS employee after submitting a Form 15227, or who are ineligible to file a Form 15227 may call the IRS to make an appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. They will need to bring one picture identification document and another identification document to prove their identity. Once verified, the taxpayer will receive an IP PIN via U.S. Postal Service within three weeks.
The IP PIN process for confirmed victims of identity theft remains unchanged. These victims will automatically receive an IP PIN each year.