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 in your name. If you have been a victim of identity theft, or if the IRS suspects your Social Security number has been compromised, you will receive a notice telling you that you need an IP PIN to file. You can also request one voluntarily if you are concerned about your tax identity.

The PIN works like a password for your tax return. When you file, you enter it on your return. Without the correct PIN, anyone trying to file a fraudulent return using your Social Security number will be rejected by the IRS system. The IRS issues a new PIN each year, so you will need to obtain a fresh one annually if you want to keep using this 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 your Social Security number and filing status from your last return.
If you cannot use the online tool, you can call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 to request a PIN by phone, though wait times are often long during tax season.
The IRS will mail your PIN to the address on file with your most recent tax return, so make sure your mailing address is current before you request one.
You must enter your IP PIN on your tax return when you file, whether you file on paper or electronically, or your return will be rejected.
If you lose your PIN before filing, you can request a replacement through the same online tool or by calling the IRS again.

Getting your PIN online through the IRS website

The fastest way to get an IP PIN is through the IRS online tool at irs.gov/identity-protection-pin. Go to that page and select "Get an IP PIN" to start the process. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status from your most recent tax return, and your current mailing address. The system will verify this information against IRS records.

Once you have entered your information, the IRS will ask you to confirm your identity by answering questions based on your credit history or other personal data. This step usually takes a few minutes. If verification is successful, the system will display your six-digit PIN on the screen when ready. Write it down or take a screenshot—this is the only time the IRS will show it to you on that visit. The PIN will also be mailed to your address within five to seven business days as a backup.

If the online tool cannot verify your identity, you will see a message saying verification failed. This can happen if your information does not match IRS records exactly, or if you have a credit freeze in place. In that case, move to the phone method described below.

Requesting your PIN by phone

If you cannot use the online tool or prefer to speak with someone, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. This line is specifically for IP PIN requests. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and current mailing address ready before you call. During tax season (January through April), wait times are typically 30 minutes to over an hour, so call early in the morning or late in the day if possible.

When you reach an IRS representative, tell them you need to request an IP PIN. They will verify your identity by asking you questions about your tax history or personal information. Once verified, they will provide your PIN over the phone. Ask them to repeat it back to you to make sure you have written it correctly. The IRS will mail the PIN to your address within five to seven business days.

If you call outside of the normal filing season, wait times are usually shorter. The IRS also offers this service year-round, so you do not have to wait until tax time to request a PIN.

What to do if you do not receive your PIN in the mail

The IRS mails IP PINs to the address on file with your most recent tax return. If you have moved recently and did not update your address with the IRS, your PIN may go to your old address. Check your mail for five to seven business days after you request the PIN online or by phone.

If you do not receive it within that window, call the IRS again at 1-800-908-4490 and ask them to confirm the mailing address they have on file. If the address is wrong, provide the correct one and request that they remail your PIN. You can also use the online tool again to request a replacement PIN if you prefer.

If your PIN arrives but you lose it before filing season, you can request a new one using either method. The IRS will issue you a replacement without penalty.

Using your IP PIN when you file your tax return

When you file your return, you must enter your IP PIN in the designated field. If you file electronically through tax software or a tax professional, the software will have a specific box for your IP PIN—look for it on the screen where you enter personal information. If you file on paper, write your IP PIN on the line marked "IP PIN" on your Form 1040 or the form you are using.

If you file without entering your IP PIN and the IRS has issued you one, your return will be rejected. The IRS system will send it back and ask you to resubmit with the PIN included. This can delay your refund by several weeks, so double-check that you have entered it correctly before submitting.

Your IP PIN is different each year. The PIN you received for the 2024 tax year will not work for 2025. You will need to request a new PIN each January or February if you want to continue using this protection.

What happens if you file without a PIN when you need one

If the IRS has assigned you an IP PIN because of identity theft or a security concern, and you file your return without it, the IRS will reject your return automatically. You will receive a notice in the mail explaining that your return was rejected and instructing you to resubmit it with your IP PIN included.

This rejection does not mean your return is denied—it straightforward means the IRS will not process it until you provide the PIN. You can resubmit your return electronically or on paper with the PIN added. The delay usually adds two to four weeks to your filing timeline, so it is important to have your PIN before you file.

If you have already filed without the PIN and received a rejection notice, follow the instructions on the notice to resubmit. If you have lost your PIN, request a replacement using the online tool or by calling 1-800-908-4490 before you resubmit your return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file my taxes without an IP PIN if the IRS issued me one?

No. If the IRS has issued you an IP PIN, you must enter it on your return or the IRS will reject it. The system will not process your return without the PIN. You can request a replacement PIN if you have lost yours.

What if I request an IP PIN but the online tool says verification failed?

Verification can fail if your information does not match IRS records exactly, if you have a credit freeze, or if there is a discrepancy in your file. Call 1-800-908-4490 instead. A representative can verify your identity using different questions and issue your PIN over the phone.

Do I need to request a new IP PIN every year?

Yes. The IRS issues a new IP PIN each year. The PIN you received for 2024 will not work for 2025. You will need to request a fresh PIN in January or February of each year if you want to continue using identity protection.

What if my mailing address has changed since I filed my last return?

Update your address with the IRS before you request your IP PIN. You can do this on the IRS website or by calling 1-800-908-4490. Once your address is updated, request your PIN and it will be mailed to your current address.

Can someone else request an IP PIN using my Social Security number?

No. The online tool and phone line both require identity verification. Someone would need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and the ability to answer security questions based on your credit history or personal information. If you suspect someone has tried to request a PIN in your name, contact the IRS when ready at 1-800-908-4490.

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.