How to Get Your IRS Identity Protection PIN

What an IRS Identity Protection PIN is and why you might need one

An IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number the IRS issues to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number. If you have been a victim of identity theft, or if the IRS suspects your account has been compromised, you will receive a notice telling you that you need one. You can also request one yourself if you want extra protection, even if you have not been targeted yet.

The PIN works like this: when you file your return, you enter it in a specific box on your tax form. The IRS checks that the PIN matches their records. If a thief tries to file a return with your Social Security number but does not have your PIN, the IRS will reject that return. Without a PIN, you file normally—there is no requirement to have one unless the IRS has notified you that your account needs protection.

Key Takeaways

You can get an IP PIN through the IRS online tool at irs.gov/identity-protection-pin, which requires you to verify your identity using information from your tax return or credit file.
If you cannot use the online tool, you can call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 to request one by phone, though wait times are often long.
The IRS issues a new PIN each year, usually in late December or early January, and you will receive it by mail at your address on file.
If the IRS has already notified you that your account is compromised, you must use the PIN they issued to you when you file; using a different one will cause your return to be rejected.
You do not need a PIN to file unless the IRS has told you to get one or you have chosen to request one for protection.

Getting a PIN through the IRS online tool

The fastest way to get an IP PIN is through the IRS website. Go to irs.gov/identity-protection-pin and look for the "Get an IP PIN" option. The tool will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions based on information from your tax return or your credit file. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status.

The verification process usually takes a few minutes. If you pass the identity check, the IRS will issue your PIN when ready and display it on your screen. Write it down or take a screenshot—this is the only time the IRS will show it to you in this way. The PIN is valid for the current tax year and the next one, so you will have time to use it when you file.

If the online tool tells you that it cannot verify your identity, do not try again right away. The system may lock you out temporarily after a few failed attempts. In that case, call the IRS or wait a few days before trying again.

Requesting a PIN by phone

If you cannot use the online tool or prefer to speak with someone, you can call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. This is the dedicated line for identity protection matters. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and a copy of your most recent tax return ready when you call.

The IRS representative will verify your identity over the phone using similar questions as the online tool. If you pass verification, they will issue your PIN and read it to you. Ask them to mail you a confirmation letter so you have a record of it. Phone wait times can be very long, especially during tax season, so consider calling early in the morning or later in the week when lines are shorter.

What happens after you receive your PIN

Once you have your IP PIN, the IRS will mail you a notice confirming it. Keep this letter in a safe place. When you file your tax return, you will enter the PIN in the designated box on your form. If you file electronically, your tax software will have a field for it. If you file on paper, the form will show you exactly where to write it.

Your PIN is valid for two tax years. For example, if you receive a PIN in January 2024, you can use it for the 2023 and 2024 tax years. The IRS will issue you a new PIN each year, usually in late December or early January. You will receive the new one by mail before you need it for the next filing season.

If you lose your PIN or forget it, you can request a new one using the same online tool or by calling the IRS. There is no limit to how many times you can request a replacement PIN.

If the IRS issued you a PIN because of identity theft

If the IRS notified you that your account has been compromised and they issued you a PIN, you must use that specific PIN when you file. Do not request a different one. Using the wrong PIN will cause the IRS to reject your return, and you will have to resubmit it with the correct one.

The IRS will send you the PIN by mail to the address on your tax return. If you do not receive it within two weeks of the notice, call 1-800-908-4490 to confirm they have the correct mailing address. If your address has changed, update it with the IRS before you file so your PIN reaches you.

In addition to using the PIN, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This adds another layer of protection against identity theft. You can do this for free through each bureau's website.

Troubleshooting common PIN problems

If the online tool says it cannot verify your identity, it usually means the information you entered does not match what the IRS has on file. Double-check your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status. If you recently moved, the IRS may not have updated your address yet, which can cause verification to fail. Wait a few days and try again, or call the IRS to update your information first.

If you file your return and the IRS rejects it because of a PIN mismatch, it means the PIN you used does not match the one in their system. Check the PIN you entered against the one the IRS sent you. If they do not match, contact the IRS to confirm which PIN is correct. Do not file again until you have the right one.

If you never received your PIN by mail, check the address the IRS has on file. You can see this by logging into your IRS account at irs.gov using your Social Security number and a password. If the address is wrong, update it and request a new PIN. If the address is correct but you still have not received it after three weeks, call 1-800-908-4490.

When you do not need an IP PIN

You do not need an IP PIN to file your tax return unless the IRS has told you to get one or you have chosen to request one for protection. If you have never been notified of identity theft and you do not want extra protection, you can file without a PIN. The IRS does not require them for everyone.

However, if you have been a victim of identity theft in the past or you are concerned about your account security, requesting a PIN is a straightforward step that adds protection at no cost. Many people choose to get one even if they have not been targeted, straightforward for peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file my taxes without a PIN if the IRS told me I need one?

No. If the IRS has notified you that you must use an IP PIN, your return will be rejected if you file without it or with the wrong one. You must obtain the PIN they issued and use it when you file. If you have lost it, call 1-800-908-4490 to request a replacement.

How long does it take to get an IP PIN?

If you use the online tool, you get your PIN when ready. If you call the IRS, you receive it during the call. If the IRS mails you a PIN because of identity theft, it typically arrives within two weeks. Plan ahead during tax season, as phone lines are busier.

What if someone files a tax return with my Social Security number before I get my PIN?

If a thief files before you, the IRS will reject your return when you try to file because the Social Security number is already in use. Contact the IRS when ready at 1-800-908-4490 to report the fraudulent return. The IRS has a process to resolve this, but it takes time. You may need to file a paper return or wait for the IRS to clear the fraudulent one first.

Do I have to pay for an IP PIN?

No. The IRS issues IP PINs for free. If a website or service charges you to get an IP PIN, it is a scam. The only official way to get one is through irs.gov or by calling 1-800-908-4490.

What happens if I use my old PIN instead of my new one?

The IRS will reject your return because the PIN does not match their current records. You will need to file again with the correct PIN. Make sure you are using the most recent PIN the IRS sent you, not one from a previous year.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.