If you have been notified by the IRS that you, your spouse, or your dependent have been a victim of identity theft, they will issue an IP PIN or identity theft 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 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 shows that a particular taxpayer is the filer of the return. 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 and this will cause delays in 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 and it is required when electronically filing, please click here.
When do I receive my IP PIN?
The IRS issues a new PIN each year and mails the PIN to the taxpayer between November and January to all taxpayers that are required to file with an IP PIN. 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 on how to paper file your return, 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
- Select the correct person and enter the IP PIN. Do not enter anything for the individuals that have not received an IP PIN.
Still have questions? Try the FAQs on the IRS website.