IPPIN Rejection - Primary Taxpayer, Spouse, or Dependent
When filing a federal tax return electronically, the IRS requires an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) if one has been issued to the primary taxpayer, spouse, or any dependent. An IP PIN is a 6-digit number issued annually by the IRS to help prevent identity theft and fraudulent tax filings.
If the IP PIN entered does not match IRS records, the return will be rejected.
What Is an IP PIN?
An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a 6-digit number assigned by the IRS to eligible taxpayers. It must be entered exactly as issued when e-filing a return.
- A new IP PIN is issued each year.
- It is valid only for the current tax year.
- Each individual assigned an IP PIN (primary, spouse, or dependent) must have their own IP PIN entered.
Common Causes of IP PIN Rejection
Your return may be rejected for one of the following reasons:
- The IP PIN was entered incorrectly.
- The IP PIN was not entered, but one was issued.
- The IP PIN entered belongs to a prior tax year.
- The IP PIN does not match IRS records for that individual.
- An IP PIN was entered for someone who was not issued one.
How to Resolve IPPIN Rejection
Follow these steps:
- Verify the IP PIN: Confirm the 6-digit IP PIN exactly as shown in your IRS records or notice.
- Use the Current Year's IP PIN: Ensure you are using the IP PIN issued for the current filing year (2025 filing season for Tax Year 2024 returns).
- Retrieve a Lost IP PIN: If you cannot locate your IP PIN, use the IRS online "Get an IP PIN" tool at IRS.gov to retrieve or reissue it.
- Correct and Resubmit:
After entering the correct IP PIN, resubmit your return electronically.
Important Notes
- Do not file Form 1040-X to fix an IP PIN rejection.
- Simply correct the IP PIN and refile.
- If you cannot obtain the correct IP PIN, you may need to file a paper return.
- Paper returns without the required IP PIN may experience processing delays.
When to Contact the IRS
If you believe an IP PIN was issued in error or you continue to experience rejections after verifying the correct number, contact the IRS directly for assistance.
Source:
Form 1040
Publication 17
Disclaimer: Always verify information with official Federal or State Department of Revenue Forms and Instructions before filing your tax return.