Learning Center

Should You Get an IRS Identity Protection PIN?

Article Highlights:

  • What is an IP PIN? 
  • Social Security Number 
  • IP PIN Program Expansion 
  • How the IP PIN is Used 
  • Annual Number 
  • Applying for an IP PIN 
  • Current Availability 
An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers by the IRS to help prevent the misuse of their Social Security number by ID thieves to file fraudulent federal income tax returns. The IP PIN aids IRS in verifying a taxpayer's identity and accepting only valid returns via electronic filing or paper filed returns.

For many years, IP PINs were only available to taxpayers with certain specific circumstances, who were residents of certain states, had their identity stolen and who had someone file a tax return using their Social Security number.

In January 2021, the IRS expanded the IP PIN program to all taxpayers who wished to participate in this ID protection program and who can verify their identity. This is especially important for taxpayers who believe their ID has been compromised but is available to all taxpayers as protection if their IDs were to be compromised or believed to have been compromised. Even if a thief already filed a fraudulent return, an IP PIN would still offer protections for later years and prevent taxpayers from being repeat victims of tax-related identity theft.

For security reasons only the taxpayer can apply for an IP PIN; a tax professional can’t provide this service for their client. An IP PIN can be obtained online by using the IRS’ Get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). If you want to request an IP PIN, please be aware that to do so you will need to pass a rigorous identity verification process. If you can’t successfully validate your identity through the Get an IP PIN tool, there are a couple of alternatives. If your adjusted gross income is less than $72,000, you can complete and submit to IRS Form 15227, Application for an Identify Protection Personal Identification Number, to request an IP PIN. Another option if you don’t qualify to apply using Form 15227, is to request an in-person appointment at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center. You can find details on these alternative ways of requesting an IP PIN by using the link above. Both the application and appointment methods take longer for the IRS to assign an IP PIN to you than if you apply online.

There are some additional things you should know about an IP PIN:
  • This six-digit number is known only to the taxpayer and the IRS. 
  • Participating in the program is voluntary. 
  • The IP PIN is used in addition to the Social Security number. 
  • There is a special place to enter the IP PIN on page 2 of the 1040 near the signature block. 
  • The IP PIN is valid for one calendar year. 
  • For security reasons, enrolled participants get a new IP PIN each year. 
  • Spouses and dependents are eligible for an IP PIN if they can verify their identities. 
  • IP PIN users should never share their number with anyone but the IRS and their trusted tax preparation provider. 
  • The IRS will never call, email or text a request for the IP PIN. Only scammers will do that.
Currently, taxpayers can get an IP PIN for 2021, which should be used when filing any federal tax returns during the rest of the year, including prior year returns. New IP PINs will be available starting in January 2022.








Share this article...

NEVER MISS A STORY.

Sign up for our newsletters and get our articles delivered right to your inbox.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .

Social Media

Rose Tax & Financial

8 Pinon Ave
Cedar Crest, New Mexico 87008
Mon - Fri: 10:00am to 6:00pm
Sat: 10:00am to 2:00pm

Check the background of your financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck
Avantax affiliated Financial Professionals may only conduct business with residents of the states for which they are properly registered. Please note that not all of the investments and services mentioned are available in every state. Securities offered through Avantax Investment Services℠, Member FINRA, SIPC, Investment Advisory services offered through Avantax Advisory ServicesSM, Insurance services offered through an Avantax affiliated insurance agency. 3200 Olympus Blvd., Suite 100, Dallas, TX 75019. 972-870-6000.
The Avantax family of companies exclusively provide financial products and services through its financial representatives. Although Avantax Wealth Management® does not provide or supervise tax or accounting services, Avantax representatives may offer these services through their independent outside business. Content, links, and some material within this website may have been created by a third party for use by an Avantax affiliated representative. This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not represent the views and opinions of Avantax Wealth Management® or its subsidiaries. Avantax Wealth Management® is not responsible for and does not control, adopt, or endorse any content contained on any third party website.
This information is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.
The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the web sites provided here, you are leaving this web site. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these web sites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences.
For Important Information and Form CRS please visit https://www.avantax.com/disclosures.

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions
Type your message here.
Please fill out the form and our team will get back to you shortly The form was sent successfully