What is an Identity Protection PIN

An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number issued by the IRS to help protect taxpayers from tax-related identity theft. This added layer of security helps prevent criminals from filing false returns in your name and collecting any refunds. “The IP PIN is the number one security tool currently available to taxpayers from the IRS,” the independent IRS advisory group said in its annual report to Congress. “This tool is the key to making it more difficult for criminals to file false tax returns in the name of the taxpayer. In our view, the benefits of increased IP PIN use are many.”

Why should an Individual apply for an IP PIN?

Having an IP PIN is crucial for safeguarding your identity and ensuring that your income tax filings are secure. Identity theft related to taxes has become a significant issue, with scammers using stolen personal information or when a person’s Social Security Number (SSN) has been compromised to file fraudulent tax returns and obtain tax refunds. The IP PIN makes it much more difficult for fraudsters to successfully file a return, as they would need the PIN in addition to your SSN. Without it, the IRS will detect the mismatch and reject the fraudulent filing. Once issued, the IP PIN must be entered with your tax return each year to ensure your return is processed correctly. Important Note: If you are required to use an IP PIN, you must include it on your tax return. Filing electronically without it will result in the return being rejected. Filing a paper return without that number will significantly delay processing and any potential refund.

How To Acquire an IP PIN?

To obtain an Identity Protection PIN, you must go through a verification process with the IRS. Taxpayers who have already been victims of identity theft may automatically be assigned an IP PIN and were notified by an annual letter with the PIN information. The IP PIN process for confirmed victims of identity theft remains unchanged. These victims will automatically receive an IP PIN each year. The IP PIN is valid for one calendar year.

Others can request one through the IRS’s “Get an IP PIN” online tool, available on the IRS website. To use the tool, you must verify your identity through the ID.me link by providing personal information, such as your SSN, date of birth, and address. If you cannot use the online tool, the IRS offers alternative ways to apply, such as by phone or mail, but it may take longer. If taxpayers are unable to validate their identity online and if their income is below $73,000 for individuals or below $146,000 for married couples, they may file Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number. The IRS will call the telephone number provided on Form 15227 to validate their identity. Once verified, the taxpayer will receive an IP PIN via U.S. Postal Service within four to six weeks.

Taxpayers who cannot validate their identities online or on the phone with an IRS employee after submitting a Form 15227, or who are ineligible to file a Form 15227, may call the IRS to make an appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. They will need to bring one picture identification document and another identification document to prove their identity. Once verified, the taxpayer will receive an IP PIN via U.S. Postal Service within three weeks.

What If I did not get my IP PIN? 

Note that the IP PIN online is unavailable from November 16, 2025, to January 2026 for annual maintenance. If you did not receive your annual IP PIN letter (Notice CP01A) from the IRS, you can quickly retrieve it online or request a replacement by phone or in person.

1. Retrieve Online (Fastest Method) Go to the official Get an IP PIN page on the IRS website
2. Request by Phone If you are unable to retrieve your IP PIN online, you can call the IRS to have it reissued. Call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490.
3. Visit a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)For in-person assistance, you can schedule an appointment at a local IRS office. Use the Taxpayer Assistance Locator toolor call 844-545-5640 to find the nearest office and schedule an appointment. You must bring multiple forms of identification to verify your identity.

Contact Us Today

Taking proactive steps to protect your tax information can help prevent costly delays and fraud. Call us at 203-489-0612 to review your options and ensure your tax filings remain secure.

Written by: Nikko Ardito