What is an Identity Protection PIN ?
An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a unique six-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to eligible individuals in the United States. The purpose of an IP PIN is to provide an additional layer of security to help protect taxpayers from identity theft and fraudulent tax returns.
When a taxpayer has an IP PIN, they must include it on their federal tax return. The IP PIN helps the IRS verify the taxpayer's identity and ensures that only the legitimate taxpayer's return is processed. It helps prevent criminals from filing fraudulent returns using stolen personal information.
IP PINs are typically issued to individuals who have previously experienced identity theft or who are at a higher risk of being targeted. The IRS will send a new IP PIN to eligible individuals each year before the start of the tax filing season.
It's important to note that an IP PIN is different from other personal identification numbers, such as a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The IP PIN is specifically used for tax-related purposes and is designed to provide an added layer of protection against tax-related identity theft.
What Identity Protection PIN used for ?
An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is used as an additional layer of security to protect taxpayers from identity theft and fraudulent tax returns. The Identity Protection PIN is used only on Forms 1040, 1040-PR, 1040-NR, 1040-SR, and 1040-SS. The IP PIN helps prevent someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number (SSN) without your knowledge.
When you have an IP PIN, it must be included on your tax return, ensuring that the IRS can verify your identity and process your return smoothly. The IP PIN is valid for one calendar year and needs to be renewed annually for ongoing protection.
Obtaining an IP PIN requires going through a verification process with the IRS. This typically involves providing personal information and verifying your identity through a series of questions. Once you have an IP PIN, it is essential to safeguard it and not share it with anyone else. By using an IP PIN, taxpayers add an extra layer of security to their tax filing process, reducing the risk of identity theft and potential tax fraud.
Who is Eligible for an Identity Protection PIN ?
Anyone who can prove their identification and has a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is eligible to enroll the IP PIN program. The general eligibility criteria for obtaining an IP PIN were as follows:
- Individuals who have experienced identity theft and have a resolution with the IRS.
- Individuals who have received an IRS letter inviting them to opt into the IP PIN program.
How to Get IRS Identity Protection PIN ?
To obtain an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), you can follow these steps:
1) Get an IP PIN online:
The IRS offers an online tool called "Get an IP PIN" on their website. Visit the IRS website and look for the IP PIN tool. This tool is available from mid-January to mid-November each year. You will need to create an account or log in to an existing account to access the tool.
2) Validate your identity:
To obtain an IP PIN, you will need to provide personal information to validate your identity. This may include your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and mailing address. The IRS will use this information to verify your identity and determine if you are eligible for an IP PIN.
3) Generate your IP PIN:
Once your identity is validated, the IRS will generate a unique six-digit IP PIN for you. You should securely note down this number as you will need it when filing your tax return.
4) Renew your IP PIN annually:
If you choose to participate in the IP PIN program, you will receive a new IP PIN each year. You must use the new IP PIN for the corresponding tax year when filing your federal tax return.
It's worth mentioning that if you opt for the IP PIN program, you will need to use the IP PIN provided by the IRS on your tax return. Without the correct IP PIN, your tax return may be delayed or rejected. The availability of the IP PIN program may vary depending on the IRS's policies and procedures. If you are unable to retrieve your IP PIN online, you can contact the IRS directly for assistance.
Alternatives to Get IRS IP PIN
There are other options if you desire an IP PIN but can't successfully verify your identity using the Get an online IP PIN tool. Please be aware that assigning you an IP PIN takes longer if you use a means other than the online tool. If you are looking for alternatives to obtaining an IP PIN, here are a two options:
1) Requesting in-person authentication :
You may make an appointment for an in-person meeting at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center. You can contact the IRS directly to request an IP PIN. Visit the IRS website or call their toll-free number to speak with a representative who can guide you through the process.
2) Filing an application :
The IRS offers Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number. You can complete this form and mail it to the address provided by the IRS. The form requires verification of your identity, so you will need to submit the necessary documentation along with it. You will typically receive your IP PIN via the U.S. Postal Service four to six weeks after they have confirmed your identity. Your IP PIN will then be mailed to you once a year.
A valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, an adjusted gross income on your most recent tax return that is less than $73,000 for individuals or $146,000 for married couples filing jointly, and access to a telephone are requirements for using Form 15227.
How to Get IP PIN Reissued ?
To get your IRS Identity Protection Personal Identification Number reissued, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the official website of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at www.irs.gov.
- In the search bar on the IRS website, type "Get an IP PIN" and click on the search icon.
- Look for the page titled "Get an IP PIN" and click on it to access the IP PIN tool.
- On the IP PIN page, click on the "Get an IP PIN" button to start the process.
- You will be asked to log in to your IRS account. If you don't have an account, you will need to create one.
- Once you're logged in, the IP PIN tool will guide you through the process of reissuing your IP PIN. You may need to verify your identity by providing personal information and answering security questions.
- Follow the instructions on the screen and provide the necessary information accurately.
- After completing the process, the IRS will reissue your IP PIN. It will be sent to the address associated with your tax return within 3 weeks.
- Make sure to securely store your IP PIN in a safe place as you will need it when filing your tax returns or dealing with the IRS regarding your identity.
Call 800-908-4490 for specialized support, if you are unable to locate your IP PIN online and need to have it reissued. Within 21 days, an assistant will confirm your identity and mail your IP PIN to your registered address.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does an IP PIN help protect against identity theft?
An IP PIN adds an extra layer of security to ensure that only the legitimate taxpayer's return is processed. It helps prevent criminals from filing fraudulent tax returns using stolen personal information.
Can I get an IP pin for my child?
Yes, you can request an IP PIN for your child by submitting a paper Form 14039 to the IRS.
Do you get a new IP pin every year?
Yes, if you participate in the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) program, you will receive a new IP PIN from the IRS each year.
Can I opt out of the IP PIN program?
Yes, you can choose not to participate in the IP PIN program. However, once you opt out, you will not be issued an IP PIN, and you won't have the added protection against tax-related identity theft that it provides.
What if I lose or forget my IP PIN?
If you lose or forget your IP PIN, you can use the "Get an IP PIN" tool on the IRS website to retrieve it. The tool will guide you through the necessary steps to recover your IP PIN.
Can I use the same IP PIN every year?
No, the IRS issues a new IP PIN for each tax year. You need to use the IP PIN assigned for the specific tax year when filing your federal tax return.
Can I share my IP PIN with someone else, such as my tax preparer?
No, your IP PIN is personal and should not be shared with anyone. It is meant to be used only by the legitimate taxpayer when filing their tax return.
Is an IP PIN required for state tax returns?
An IP PIN is primarily used for federal tax returns. However, some states may have their own programs or requirements related to identity theft protection. Check with your state's tax authority to determine if an IP PIN or a similar program is available for state tax purposes.
Can I opt for an IP PIN if I have never experienced identity theft?
Yes, as mentioned earlier, the IRS expanded the IP PIN program in 2021 to allow anyone who can verify their identity to obtain an IP PIN, even if they haven't experienced identity theft.