What Is an IRS IP PIN?
An IRS IP PIN — Identity Protection Personal Identification Number — is a six-digit code the IRS issues to verified taxpayers. Once you have one, no one can file a federal tax return using your Social Security number without it. Not you. Not a tax preparer. And not an identity thief.
It’s one of the most effective tools the IRS offers to stop tax fraud before it starts. And it’s free.
If someone has already filed a fraudulent return in your name, or if your personal information has been exposed in a data breach, an IP PIN is not optional — it’s essential.
Who Needs an IRS IP PIN?
The IRS originally assigned IP PINs only to confirmed victims of tax-related identity theft. That changed in 2021. Now, any U.S. taxpayer can voluntarily opt in to the IP PIN program — regardless of whether they’ve experienced identity theft.
You should strongly consider getting an IP PIN if any of the following apply to you:
- You received an IRS notice saying a return was already filed under your SSN
- Your personal data (SSN, date of birth, address) was exposed in a data breach
- You’ve been a victim of identity theft in any form
- You had a fraudulent state tax return filed in your name
- You want proactive protection — even if nothing has happened yet
Tax identity theft is more common than most people realize. Thieves file early in the tax season using stolen Social Security numbers, claim a refund, and disappear before the real taxpayer even thinks about filing. When you finally submit your legitimate return, the IRS rejects it — and you’re left cleaning up a mess that can take months to resolve.
An IP PIN closes that door entirely.
How the IP PIN Works
Each January, the IRS issues you a new six-digit IP PIN. You enter it when you file your federal tax return — electronically or on paper. The IRS uses it to verify that the return came from you.
If someone tries to file using your SSN without the current PIN, the IRS rejects the return outright. The fraudulent filing goes nowhere.
- Your IP PIN changes every year. Last year’s PIN will not work.
- If you use a tax preparer, you must give them your current PIN before they file.
- The PIN applies to your federal return only — not state returns.
- If you lose your PIN, there are ways to retrieve it (covered below).
How to Get an IRS IP PIN: Three Options
| Method | Who It’s For | How Long It Takes | What You Need |
|---|---|---|---|
| IRS Online Account | Most taxpayers | Immediate | IRS account with ID.me verification, photo ID, SSN |
| Form 15227 | AGI ≤ $73,000 single / ≤ $146,000 joint; cannot verify online | 4–6 weeks | Completed Form 15227 mailed to IRS |
| In-Person at TAC | Cannot verify online or by phone | PIN mailed within 3 weeks | Government photo ID, Social Security documentation |
Option 1: IRS Online Account (Fastest)
Go to IRS.gov and log in or create an IRS online account. Use the “Get an IP PIN” tool. You’ll go through identity verification via ID.me — a government-issued photo ID and a selfie. The PIN is issued immediately.
Option 2: Form 15227
If you cannot verify online and your AGI falls within the limits, mail or fax Form 15227. An IRS employee calls the phone number on your most recent return to verify identity. Your PIN arrives by mail.
Option 3: Taxpayer Assistance Center
Schedule an appointment at your local TAC with photo ID and Social Security documentation. The IRS verifies your identity in person and mails your PIN within approximately three weeks.
What If You Lose Your IP PIN?
Log into your IRS online account and navigate to the IP PIN section — your current year’s PIN is available there. If you received a CP01A notice letter, use that. If neither is available, contact the IRS directly. This is exactly where having a Federally Authorized Enrolled Agent in your corner saves time — we can contact the IRS Practitioner Priority Service on your behalf.
How the IP PIN Connects to IRS Identity Theft Resolution
If a fraudulent return has already been filed, getting an IP PIN is just one step. The IRS Identity Theft Victim Assistance process can stretch from six months to over a year without professional help. The steps typically involve:
- Filing an Identity Theft Affidavit (Form 14039)
- Working with the IRS Identity Theft Victim Assistance unit
- Waiting for the IRS to process and close the fraudulent return
- Recovering any legitimate refund that was delayed
- Getting an IP PIN assigned to prevent future fraud
Our IRS identity theft resolution service exists specifically for this. We represent you directly before the IRS — so you’re not navigating it alone.
What Happens If You Don’t Use Your PIN When Filing
If you’ve been assigned an IP PIN and file without it, the IRS rejects your return outright. Electronic returns are rejected immediately. Paper returns are flagged and delayed — potentially for months. If you’re expecting a refund, it won’t move. If you owe, penalties and interest accrue regardless of the delay.
Bottom Line: Don’t Wait for a Problem to Get One
The IRS IP PIN is free. It takes less than 20 minutes to get online. And it closes one of the most damaging and disruptive forms of tax fraud that exists.
If you’re dealing with IRS identity theft, an unexpected notice, or simply need to know where you stand — a strategy session gives you a clear picture and a real plan.