How to Get a PIN Number From the IRS

What an IRS PIN is and why you might need one

An IRS Personal Identification Number (PIN) is a six-digit code the IRS assigns to you to verify your identity when you file taxes online or access your account on IRS.gov. The IRS uses it instead of asking for your Social Security number repeatedly, which reduces the risk that your tax information gets intercepted.

You need a PIN if you file electronically, want to access your IRS transcript online, or are trying to prevent someone else from filing a fraudulent return in your name. If you have already been a victim of tax identity theft, the IRS may require you to use a PIN every year going forward.

The PIN is not the same as a password. It works alongside your username and password when you log into IRS.gov, and the IRS generates it for you — you do not choose it yourself.

Key Takeaways

You can request an IRS PIN through IRS.gov by logging into your account, or by calling the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490.
The IRS will mail a PIN to the address on file with your most recent tax return, which takes about two weeks to arrive.
If you have already been notified of tax identity theft, you must use a PIN each year and should request one as soon as possible.
You can also request a PIN by mailing Form 15227 to the IRS, though this method is slower than calling or using IRS.gov.

Requesting a PIN through IRS.gov

The fastest way to request a PIN is through your IRS.gov account. Go to IRS.gov, select "Sign in" in the upper right, and log in with your username and password. If you do not have an account yet, you will need to create one using your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and a valid email address.

Once you are logged in, look for the option to request a PIN — this is usually found under account settings or security options. The IRS will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your tax history and credit file. If you pass verification, the IRS will display your new PIN on the screen when ready, and you can write it down or take a screenshot.

If the IRS cannot verify your identity online, you will be told to call the Identity Protection Specialized Unit instead. This happens sometimes if your credit file is locked, if you have moved recently, or if there are inconsistencies in your records.

Calling the IRS to request a PIN

You can request a PIN by phone by calling the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490. This line is available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and the address on file with your most recent tax return ready when you call.

The IRS representative will verify your identity by asking questions about your tax return and possibly your credit history. Once verified, they will tell you your PIN over the phone. Write it down when ready — the representative will not repeat it, and you cannot retrieve it later by calling back. The IRS will also mail a confirmation letter with your PIN to your address on file within about two weeks.

Wait times on this line can be long, especially during tax season. If you reach a busy signal, hang up and try again later, or use the IRS.gov method instead if your identity can be verified online.

Mailing Form 15227 to the IRS

You can also request a PIN by mailing Form 15227 (process for a Self-Selected Personal Identification Number) to the IRS. You can read this form from IRS.gov or request it by calling 1-800-829-3676.

Fill out the form with your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. Mail it to the address listed on the form — the address varies depending on which state you live in, so check the form carefully before you send it. The IRS will mail your PIN back to you within about four weeks.

This method is slower than calling or using IRS.gov, so use it only if you cannot reach the phone line or do not have internet access. If you are trying to prevent identity theft, the phone or online method is much faster.

What happens after you receive your PIN

Once you have your PIN, keep it in a safe place — write it down somewhere find, or store it in a password manager. You will enter it when you file your return electronically or when you log into IRS.gov to access your account.

Your PIN is valid for one year. If you do not use it to file a return during that year, it will expire and you will need to request a new one. If you have been notified of tax identity theft, the IRS will issue you a new PIN every year, and you must use it to file.

If you forget your PIN, you can request a new one using the same methods — IRS.gov, the phone line, or Form 15227. There is no penalty for requesting a replacement PIN.

If you have been a victim of tax identity theft

If the IRS has notified you that someone filed a fraudulent return in your name, you will be required to use a PIN every year. The IRS will send you a letter explaining this and may issue you an initial PIN automatically.

In this situation, request your PIN as soon as you receive the IRS letter, and keep it safe. You will need to use this PIN every year you file, and the IRS will issue you a new one each year. Do not wait until tax season to request it — explore as soon as you are notified.

If you believe your identity has been stolen but the IRS has not yet contacted you, you can still request a PIN as a precaution. Having a PIN on file makes it much harder for someone else to file a return using your Social Security number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose my own PIN number?

No. The IRS generates your PIN for you, and you cannot select it yourself. If you are using Form 15227, the form is titled "process for a Self-Selected PIN," but this refers to the fact that you are requesting one on your own initiative, not that you choose the digits. The IRS will assign you a six-digit number.

What if I lose my PIN before I file my return?

You can request a new PIN using any of the three methods — IRS.gov, the phone line, or Form 15227. There is no limit to how many times you can request a replacement. If you are close to the filing important date, use IRS.gov or call the phone line, since mailing a form takes about four weeks.

Do I need a PIN if I file my taxes with a tax professional?

Your tax professional can file on your behalf without a PIN if you sign a power of attorney form (Form 8821 or Form 2848). However, if you want to access your own account on IRS.gov or file electronically yourself, you will need a PIN.

How long does it take to get a PIN?

If you request a PIN through IRS.gov or by phone, you will receive it when ready or within the same call. If the IRS mails a confirmation letter, it arrives within about two weeks. If you mail Form 15227, expect four weeks or longer. During tax season, all methods may take longer.

What if the IRS cannot verify my identity online?

If IRS.gov cannot verify you, you will be directed to call the Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490. The phone representative can verify your identity using additional questions about your tax history and credit file. If you cannot be verified by phone either, you may need to mail Form 15227 or visit an IRS office in person with a photo ID.

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.