IP PIN (Identity Protection PIN)
An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number issued by the IRS to help prevent fraudulent federal tax return filings using a taxpayer’s Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The IP PIN is used as an additional authentication step when filing a federal income tax return.
Once assigned, the IP PIN is known only to the taxpayer and the IRS and must be included on eligible tax returns to allow processing.
Who Can Get an IP PIN?
- The IP PIN program is available to taxpayers who:
- Have been confirmed victims of identity theft, or
- Opt in voluntarily through IRS systems
- Taxpayers who opt in will generally continue to receive an IP PIN each year unless they opt out (if eligible under IRS rules).
- Identity theft victims are automatically assigned an IP PIN by the IRS for future filing years.
How to Use Your IP PIN
- The IP PIN must be entered on:
- Form 1040
- Form 1040-SR
- Form 1040-NR
- Form 1040-X (amended return), when applicable
- For paper filing, the IP PIN is entered in the signature/identity protection PIN section of the return (not next to occupation).
- For e-filed returns:
- The IP PIN is used as part of the identity authentication and return signature process
- The return cannot be accepted without a valid IP PIN when one is required
- If you do not have an IP PIN and are not required to use one, the field is left blank.
How to Get an IP PIN
Taxpayers can obtain an IP PIN through IRS systems:
- Online using the IRS “Get an IP PIN” tool at IRS.gov
- Through secure access using an IRS online account
- By completing identity verification via IRS Form 15227 (for eligible taxpayers based on income thresholds)
- In person at a Taxpayer Assistance Center, after identity verification
Important Rules
- A new IP PIN is generally issued each year for enrolled taxpayers
- The IP PIN must be used for all federal tax filings for that tax year, including original and amended returns
- The IRS will reject electronically filed returns if a required IP PIN is missing or incorrect.
Self-Select PIN vs. IP PIN
These are two separate IRS authentication tools:
Self-Select PIN
- A 5-digit number chosen by the taxpayer
- Used as an electronic signature for e-file returns
- Created within tax software during filing
Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)
- A 6-digit number issued by the IRS
- Used to prevent fraudulent filings
- Required when assigned by the IRS due to identity protection status
If an IP PIN is issued, it must be used in place of standard identity authentication methods for filing.
Source:
Form 1040X
Form 1040
Form 1040SS
Publication 5367
Publication 5477
Disclaimer: Always verify information with official Federal or State Department of Revenue Forms and Instructions.