What is the Self-Select PIN Program?
The Self-Select PIN Program allows taxpayers to choose their own Personal Identification Number (PIN) for use in verifying their identity when filing tax returns electronically. This program is designed to enhance security and convenience for taxpayers who wish to avoid using a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) as their PIN.
Key Features of the Self-Select PIN Program
- The Signature: Instead of a physical "wet ink" signature, you choose any five-digit number (except all zeros) to act as your electronic signature.
- No Registration Needed: You do not need to contact the IRS to get this PIN; you simply create it within your tax software when you are ready to file.
- Authentication: To prove your identity, the IRS requires you to provide your date of birth plus one of the following from your originally filed prior-year tax return:
- Your prior-year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).
- Your prior-year Self-Select PIN.
- Joint Returns: If filing jointly, both you and your spouse must each create a unique five-digit PIN and provide separate authentication information.
Eligibility
Most individual taxpayers can use this program for Forms 1040, 1040-SR, and 1040-NR. However, some groups are ineligible:
- First-time filers under age 16.
- Taxpayers who did not file a return last year and are also under age 16.
- Note: If you have never filed before but are 16 or older, you can still use the program by entering $0 as your prior-year AGI.
Self-Select PIN vs. IP PIN
It is important not to confuse the Self-Select PIN with the Identity Protection (IP) PIN:
- Self-Select PIN: 5-digit number you choose to sign your return.
- IP PIN: A 6-digit number the IRS assigns to victims of identity theft (or those who opt-in) to prevent fraudulent filings.
- Usage: If the IRS has issued you an IP PIN, you must use it in your software. It will often serve to verify your identity instead of your prior-year AGI or prior-year Self-Select PIN.
Disclaimer: Always verify information with official Federal or State Department of Revenue Forms and Instructions.