Protect Yourself From Tax-Related Identify Theft With An IP PIN

As we enter the 2025 tax season, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) strongly urges taxpayers to take a crucial step to guard against tax-related identity theft: sign up for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN).

An IP PIN is a unique six-digit number that the IRS provides to taxpayers to help protect their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number from fraudulent use. The IP PIN is known only to the individual taxpayer and the IRS, adding an extra layer of security to the tax filing process. It’s another tool for your toolkit to ensure the safety of your financial information.

You will have to set up an online IRS account to obtain an IP PIN. There are several benefits to creating this account. For instance, an online IRS account allows taxpayers to view key details from their most recent tax return, request an IP PIN, get account transcripts, sign tax forms, receive and view over 200 IRS electronic notices, and set up or change payment plans.

Once you set up your account, the process of obtaining an IP PIN is straightforward. Simply log into your online account at IRS.gov and follow the steps for identity verification. Once verified, you need to click on the profile tab to request your IP PIN. It is important to note that IP PIN users must use this number when filing their federal tax returns for the current calendar year and any previous years filed during that same period.

Alternative methods, such as in-person authentication at a Taxpayer Assistance Center, are available for those who cannot create an online account. More information on how to sign up and get an IP PIN is available on the IRS website.

An IP PIN is valid for one calendar year, and a new one is generated at the beginning of each calendar year. Some participants will receive their IP PIN in the mail, while others will have to log in to their online account to view their current IP PIN. 

It is worth noting that the IRS will never call, email, or text a request for the IP PIN. You should only share your number with the IRS and your tax preparation provider.

With the increasing cases of tax-related identity theft, acquiring an IP PIN has become a necessity rather than an option. It offers an additional layer of protection and ensures a smooth tax filing process.