What is an IP PIN?
IP PIN stands for Identity Protection Personal Identification Number. It’s filed with your tax return to prevent someone else from fraudulently filing a tax return using your private information. This PIN shouldn’t be shared with anyone (except your tax preparer). Not everyone receives an IP PIN.
Why would I need one of these?
The most common reason for needing this PIN is if you were a victim of identity theft. The IRS will send you a letter with your PIN so that the perpetrators can’t file a fraudulent tax return for you. A new PIN will be issued to you every year.
How do I get a new IP PIN?
You can get this 6-digit PIN one of the following ways:
You can get an IP PIN using the IRS online portal. You will be required to verify your identity in a number of ways in order to receive this PIN.
Note: If you choose to set up an IP PIN online, please verify the year for which the IP PIN is active as it may not be the current tax year.
If you choose not to obtain the IP PIN via the online portal, you can get it by submitting Form 15227 to the IRS as long as you meet the following criteria:
You do not currently have an IP PIN
Your adjusted gross income on your last filed return is at or below the following amounts:
Individual Filers: $73,000
Married Filing Joint Filers: $146,000
You have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) which is entered in Box d
You have access to a telephone which is entered in Box e
You can request an in person request to verify your identity. To do this, you’ll need to make an appointment with your local IRS office. You’ll want to bring one government issued ID and another form of ID. Afterwards, you’ll receive the IP PIN in about 3 weeks via mail.
When does the IRS send IP PIN notices?
A letter, known as a CP01A notice, will be sent from mid-December through early January from the IRS with the IP PIN for the current tax year. A new notice will be sent every year with a new IP PIN.
I can’t find my IP PIN letter or I didn’t get one this year.
The quickest way to find your IP PIN is to log into your IRS online account where your IP PIN will be displayed.
You can also call the IRS at 800-908-4490 and request that the letter be resent. Please note that it can take up to 21 days to mail your IP PIN to your address of record.
Exception: If it is after October 14th and you haven't filed your current or prior year tax return, the IRS suggests you file a paper return without your IP PIN and at that point the IRS will review your return to confirm it is yours, though this could delay any refund you may be due.
If neither option is a good fit for your needs, you can schedule an appointment with your local IRS office.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, financial, accounting, or other advice. Rules and regulations vary by location and are subject to change, so please consult with an expert if you need advice specific to you.
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