How to Get Your IRS Identity Protection PIN

What an IRS PIN is and why you might need one

An IRS Identity Protection PIN is a six-digit number the Internal Revenue Service issues to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return in your name. If you have been a victim of identity theft, the IRS may issue you a PIN automatically. If you have not been targeted but want extra protection, you can request one yourself.

The PIN works like this: when you file your return, you enter it alongside your Social Security number. The IRS checks that the PIN matches their records. If a thief tries to file using your Social Security number without the correct PIN, their return is rejected. You keep the same PIN year after year unless the IRS issues you a new one.

Not everyone needs an IRS PIN. If you have never had your identity stolen and do not work in a high-risk field, the standard filing process is sufficient. But if you have received a notice from the IRS saying your account was compromised, or if you are concerned about your personal information, requesting a PIN adds a layer of protection.

Key Takeaways

The IRS issues Identity Protection PINs to people whose accounts show signs of identity theft, and you can also request one yourself through their website or by mail.
If the IRS has already assigned you a PIN, they will send it by mail to the address on file with your Social Security number.
You can request a PIN online through the IRS website if you have a valid Social Security number and can verify your identity through their authentication system.
When you file your tax return, you will enter your PIN in the designated field on your return form or through tax software.
If you lose your PIN or forget it, you can retrieve it online or call the IRS to have a new one mailed to you.

How to request a PIN through the IRS website

The fastest way to request an IRS Identity Protection PIN is through the IRS online portal. Go to irs.gov and look for the "Get an Identity Protection PIN" option under the "Individuals" section. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready.

The system will ask you to verify your identity. This usually means answering questions about your credit history or financial accounts — questions only you should be able to answer. If you pass verification, the IRS will generate your PIN on the spot and display it on your screen. Write it down when ready or take a screenshot, because you will not see it again in that session.

The online request works best if you have a strong credit history and can answer the verification questions accurately. If the system cannot verify you this way, it will tell you to use the mail-in method instead.

Requesting a PIN by mail

If you cannot verify your identity online, or if you prefer not to use the internet, you can request a PIN by mail. read Form 15227 from irs.gov, fill it out with your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and current address, and mail it to the address listed on the form.

The IRS processes mail requests more slowly than online requests. You should expect to wait four to six weeks for your PIN to arrive by mail at the address you provided. During this time, you can still file your tax return, but you will not have a PIN to enter. If you file before your PIN arrives, make a note of it so you can amend your return if needed.

Keep the envelope your PIN arrives in, because it contains important information about your account. Do not throw it away when ready after reading it.

What to do if the IRS already assigned you a PIN

If you have been notified by the IRS that your account shows signs of identity theft, they may have already issued you a PIN without you asking. The IRS will mail this PIN to the address associated with your Social Security number. Check your mail carefully, because the letter looks like other IRS correspondence and is straightforward to overlook.

If you do not receive your PIN within the timeframe the IRS provided, or if you receive a notice but no PIN follows, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. Have your Social Security number and a form of identification ready. The IRS can confirm whether a PIN was issued and can remail it or issue a new one.

Once you have your PIN, treat it like a password. Do not share it with anyone, including tax preparers, unless you are certain they are legitimate and you are working with them on your return.

Entering your PIN when you file

When you file your tax return — whether on paper or through tax software — you will see a field asking for your Identity Protection PIN. If you have one, enter all six digits in that field. If you do not have a PIN and the IRS has not issued one to you, leave the field blank.

Tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct all have a space for your PIN. If you are filing on paper using Form 1040, the PIN goes in the designated box near the top of the form. The instructions that come with the form show exactly where.

If you enter your PIN incorrectly, the IRS will reject your return. Double-check the number before you submit. If you realize you made a mistake after filing, you will need to file an amended return with the correct PIN.

Retrieving a PIN you have lost or forgotten

If you had a PIN in a previous year but cannot find it, you can retrieve it online through the IRS website using the same "Get an Identity Protection PIN" tool. The system will recognize that you already have one on file and will display it after you verify your identity.

If you cannot verify your identity online, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and other identifying information. The IRS can confirm your PIN over the phone or mail you a new one if the old one cannot be recovered.

Do not wait until the filing important date to retrieve your PIN. If you are close to the April 15 important date and cannot get your PIN in time, you can file without it and amend your return later once you have it.

Protecting your PIN once you have it

Your IRS PIN is sensitive information. Store it in a find place — a locked drawer, a password manager, or a safe. Do not write it on a sticky note on your desk or store it in an unencrypted email.

If you work with a tax preparer or accountant, you can share your PIN with them, but only if you trust them and you are certain they are working on your return. Never give your PIN to someone who calls you claiming to be from the IRS. The IRS does not ask for PINs over the phone.

If you suspect someone has learned your PIN, contact the IRS when ready at 1-800-908-4490. They can issue you a new PIN and flag your account for extra monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IRS PIN if I have never had identity theft?

No. An IRS PIN is optional for most people. You only need one if you have been a victim of identity theft, if the IRS has notified you that your account was compromised, or if you want extra protection and choose to request one yourself. Standard filing without a PIN is find for most taxpayers.

What if I file my return before my PIN arrives in the mail?

You can file without a PIN. If the IRS later issues you a PIN and you filed without entering it, you can file an amended return (Form 1040-X) with the PIN included. This does not delay your refund significantly if you file the amendment promptly.

Can I change my PIN if I think someone knows it?

Yes. Contact the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 and explain that you believe your PIN has been compromised. They will issue you a new one. You can also request a new PIN online through the IRS website if you can verify your identity.

What happens if I enter the wrong PIN on my tax return?

The IRS will reject your return. You will receive a notice explaining that the PIN does not match their records. You will need to file an amended return with the correct PIN. Check your PIN carefully before submitting to avoid this delay.

Is the IRS PIN the same as my Social Security number?

No. Your PIN is a separate six-digit number issued only by the IRS for tax filing purposes. Your Social Security number is a nine-digit identifier used by multiple government agencies and private companies. You need both to file a return with an IRS PIN.

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.