If you have been notified by the IRS that you, your spouse, or your dependent has been a victim of identity theft, the IRS will issue an IP PIN or identity protection PIN.
When it comes to federal taxes, taxpayers may not be aware they have become victims of identity theft until:
- They receive a letter from the Internal Revenue Service stating that more than one tax return was filed with their information,
- their tax return is rejected as a duplicate filing, or
- IRS records show wages from an employer the taxpayer has not worked for in the past.
What is an IP PIN?
The IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a unique six-digit number that is assigned each year to victims of identity theft for use when filing their federal tax return. This unique pin indicates that a particular taxpayer is the return filer, essentially acting as a signature. The IP PIN will allow these individuals to avoid delays in filing returns and receiving refunds.
If you receive an IP PIN from the IRS you must use it to confirm your identity on your current tax return. If you do not enter your assigned PIN, the IRS will reject the return, which will delay processing your refund.
This is not your Self-Select PIN/AGI. If you need to learn more about your E-file PIN, used to electronically sign your tax return, please click here.
When do I receive my IP PIN?
The IRS mails new IP PINs each year between November and January to taxpayers who are required to file with one. You will receive a new number each year. Do not use the number from a prior year, as the return will be rejected.
What if I lost or did not receive my IP PIN for the current tax year?
You can get your IP PIN online. To retrieve your IP PIN online, please click here to be directed to the IRS website. Please be prepared to confirm your identity by answering identifying questions, such as your prior year's return address.
What if I cannot retrieve my IP PIN with the steps provided?
You will not be able to e-file your return. You must print, sign, and mail your return to the IRS. Due to your paper-filed return not containing the IP PIN, the IRS will subject your return to additional screenings to validate your identity. This will delay processing of your return and your refund.
To learn more about paper filing, please click here.
How do I enter my IP PIN into the program?
Log in to the account and select:
- Federal Section
- Miscellaneous Forms
- IRS Identification PIN
- Enter the IP PIN for the corresponding person, then press continue to save the changes to your return.
Still have questions? Try the FAQs on the IRS website.