How to Request an IRS PIN for Identity Protection

Your tax return can be protected against potential fraud with the use of an Identity Protection PIN from the IRS.

Nobody wants to spend time worrying about identity theft and tax refund fraud. But everybody ought to. It can take months or even years to clean up the devastation a fraudster leaves behind. So, taking steps to safeguard your identity now is well worth it. This year, the IRS is making such protections simpler by granting all American taxpayers access to Identity Protection PINs.

What Does an IRS IP PIN Do and What Is It Called?

To prevent someone else from submitting a tax return using your Social Security number, the IRS will provide you with an Identity Protection PIN, a six-digit number. You must use your IP PIN after you’ve received one while filing your taxes. Only your tax advisor or when you file using tax software should provide your IP PIN.

The IRS claims that using an IP PIN would help secure your account since paper returns will be subject to additional fraud checks and electronic returns without the proper IP PIN will be denied.

Who Is Eligible to Obtain an IRS IP PIN?

Before, IP PINs were only offered in a few states, but the IRS is now making the scheme available everywhere. Obtaining an IP PIN is a voluntary option open to all individual taxpayers. As long as they pass the identification process, spouses and dependents are also eligible to get IP PINs.

Obtaining an IP PIN

If you don’t already have one, make one now. You will require the following to register on the IRS website:

Entire name
Call-in number.
Individual tax identification number or Social Security number.
Filing status for taxes.
Present-day address
A number from one of your financial accounts. Such as the last eight digits of a credit card, student loan, mortgage, home equity loan, or line of credit, as well as an auto loan number, are also required to register.

The IRS will email you a code that you must validate. After that, complete the forms and confirm your phone number. You can skip step three and apply in another manner if the IRS is unable to verify your information at any time during this procedure.

To Obtain an IP PIN, Use the Web Tool

Use the “Get an IP Pin” button on the IRS website to register after creating an online account. Before being accepted, candidates must complete a “rigorous identity verification process,” according to the IRS. Your IP PIN is good for a full calendar year after you obtain it.

You will receive an annual CP01A Notice in the mail with a new IP PIN. If your identity has previously been stolen and the IRS has taken care of the problems with your tax account.

Try Another Approach

You can submit your application by mail, fax, or in person if the IRS is having trouble using the online tool to confirm your identity.

You’ll need the following to apply by mail or fax:

An individual taxpayer identification number (ITPN) or Social Security number.
A gross income after adjustments of $72,000 or less.

If you are eligible, you can send the IRS Form 15227 by mail or fax. The IRS will then get in touch with you by phone, confirm your identity, and mail you an IP PIN for the following filing season.

For in-person applications, you will require:

One piece of identification with a picture.
One more form of identification.

Make a scheduled appointment to see a Taxpayer Assistance Center in person. You’ll get your IP PIN in the mail three weeks after your identity has been confirmed.

IRS IP PINs: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I proceed if I misplace my IP PIN?

The IP PIN tool you used to apply for your PIN on the IRS website can be used to retrieve it if you lose it. If you are unable to find your IP PIN online, you can renew your IP PIN by calling the IRS at 800-908-4490.

Does it work to file taxes without an IP PIN?

Yes. You don’t need an IP PIN to file your taxes because it’s optional. You must file with your IP PIN if you already have one.

Is an IP PIN required for my stimulus check?

No. You shouldn’t require your IP PIN to receive a stimulus check because they are being distributed automatically. To file your tax return, you will need your IP PIN.

What Additional Means Do I Have to Safeguard My Identity?

You can freeze your credit, which stops any new credit from being opened in your name, to further secure your identity. You can also set up fraud alerts, which subject your credit applications to an additional level of examination. Contact Your Part Time Accountant to find out more!