Quick overview

An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit code the IRS uses to authenticate a taxpayer’s identity when processing federal tax returns. The program began to combat growing incidents of tax-related identity theft and has expanded so that many taxpayers can now opt in if they can verify their identity. While an IP PIN does not stop every form of fraud, it prevents criminals from successfully filing a return using your Social Security number without that unique, IRS-issued code (IRS: Get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)).

Who should consider an IP PIN?

  • Confirmed victims of tax-related identity theft: If the IRS has already flagged your account as a victim, it will often issue an IP PIN automatically.
  • Any taxpayer who wants extra protection: Since the program expanded, many taxpayers can opt in through the IRS online verification process.
  • Parents and guardians filing on behalf of dependents: An IP PIN can protect a dependent’s Social Security number from fraudulent use.

In my practice helping clients with tax identity issues, I recommend an IP PIN for anyone who has experienced identity theft or who wants to minimize the odds that a tax refund could be stolen. It’s especially useful if you’ve had prior compromises of emails or financial accounts tied to your tax information.

How the IP PIN process works (step-by-step)

  1. Verify your identity online or by mail. The IRS provides a “Get an IP PIN” tool on IRS.gov. The online process requires identity verification; expect to provide a photo ID (driver’s license or passport) and pass multi-factor authentication. If you can’t verify online, the IRS provides alternate methods for victims (IRS: Get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)).
  2. Receive a six-digit IP PIN from the IRS. The IRS issues a new IP PIN each calendar year. If you’re issued one because you were an identity-theft victim, the IRS will typically mail a letter or provide it through the online account.
  3. Use the IP PIN when filing your federal tax return. Enter the IP PIN on the appropriate line of the Form 1040 or the e-file fields. The IRS will match the return to the issued PIN and process it only if it matches.
  4. Renew annually. Even if you received an IP PIN in prior years, you must use the current year’s IP PIN on that year’s return. The IRS provides a new number each year.

How to apply

  • Online: Use the IRS “Get an IP PIN” tool (search “Get an Identity Protection PIN” on IRS.gov). You’ll be asked to create or sign into a secure IRS account and pass identity verification.
  • By mail or phone: If you are a confirmed identity-theft victim and cannot pass the online verification, follow the instructions in IRS correspondence or the IRS identity-theft pages for alternate filing options (IRS: Identity Theft and Your Taxes).

Note: The IRS’s online verification process may require step-up authentication (photo ID and device-based verification). Keep copies of any correspondence from the IRS and follow instructions carefully.

What happens if you don’t use the IP PIN (or you lose it)

  • E-file may reject your return if you enter the wrong IP PIN. If you forget or lose your IP PIN, retrieve it through the IRS secure account or follow the IRS recovery steps. The IRS provides options for returning taxpayers who cannot recall a PIN.
  • If a fraudulent return was filed in a prior year and the IRS issued you an IP PIN, the lack of a PIN on a subsequent return increases the odds of additional scrutiny — but it’s not a substitute for other identity-theft safeguards.

Limitations and common misconceptions

  • An IP PIN is not a universal shield. It protects against fraudulent e-filed federal returns using your Social Security number, but it does not eliminate other identity-theft risks such as credit fraud, medical identity theft, or state tax return fraud.
  • It does not secure state returns automatically. Some states have their own IP PIN or identity-protection programs—check your state tax agency.
  • You must protect the PIN just as you would your Social Security number. Do not share it by email or on social platforms.

Interaction with tax professionals and software

  • If you use a tax preparer, give them your current IP PIN to include on your return. Reputable preparers will have secure methods for collecting sensitive information; ask about their data-protection practices.
  • Tax software typically provides a field for entering your IP PIN during e-file. If the software doesn’t have a field, the provider should give guidance; contact the software vendor or your preparer.

Practical tips and best practices

  • File early: Filing as soon as you have your tax documents reduces the chance a criminal files a return in your name first.
  • Keep documentation: Save IRS letters, IP PIN notifications, and records that verify your identity and tax filings. Good recordkeeping can speed recovery if identity theft occurs — see our guide on recordkeeping for donors and documentation for tax issues for more on preserving substantiation and receipts.
  • Use secure communication: Provide your IP PIN only through encrypted channels or in person with your preparer.
  • Monitor your account: Check the IRS account tools, your credit reports, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s resources on identity theft for ongoing monitoring steps (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Identity Theft resources).

Internal resources on related recordkeeping

Real-world example (anonymized)

A client I worked with had a fraudulent return filed in their name the year before. The IRS flagged them as a victim and issued an IP PIN. The following filing season they provided the IP PIN to their tax preparer and the new return was accepted immediately while the fraudster’s attempt was rejected — saving the client months of correspondence and a delayed refund.

What to do if you suspect tax identity theft now

  1. Visit the IRS Identity Theft pages and follow the instructions for victims: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-theft-and-your-taxes.
  2. If instructed by the IRS, complete and submit the Identity Theft Affidavit (Form 14039) or follow the guidance sent by the IRS.
  3. Consider requesting an IP PIN to reduce the chance of repeat fraud.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Does an IP PIN cost anything?
A: No. The IRS issues IP PINs free of charge.

Q: Can a spouse or preparer use my IP PIN?
A: A paid preparer or spouse may enter the IP PIN on your return if you provide it, but you should protect how you share it. Use a secure portal or deliver it in person.

Q: If I lose my IP PIN, can I get a replacement?
A: Yes. Retrieve it via the IRS secure online account or follow IRS recovery steps outlined on the IP PIN page.

Sources and further reading

Professional disclaimer: This article is educational and informational only; it does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. For advice tailored to your situation, consult a qualified tax professional or the IRS directly.