How Do I Get My IRS Tax PIN Number?

Tax PIN numbers are a significant aspect of federal tax filing, serving distinct purposes for security and authentication. Taxpayers may encounter two primary types: the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) and the Self-Select PIN. The IP PIN acts as a defense mechanism against identity theft, while the Self-Select PIN facilitates the electronic filing of tax returns. Understanding the function of each PIN is a starting point for navigating the tax filing process.

Understanding the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

The Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to help safeguard taxpayers from tax-related identity theft. Its primary purpose is to prevent unauthorized individuals from filing fraudulent tax returns using a taxpayer’s Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The IP PIN is known only to the taxpayer and the IRS, adding an additional layer of security.

This unique number helps the IRS verify a taxpayer’s identity when they file their electronic or paper tax return. While initially offered to confirmed victims of tax-related identity theft, the IP PIN program has expanded, allowing any taxpayer with an SSN or ITIN to voluntarily opt in for enhanced security. Each IP PIN is valid for one calendar year, with a new one generated annually for enrolled taxpayers.

Obtaining Your Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

Taxpayers can obtain their Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) through several methods, each with specific requirements. The most efficient way for many is through the IRS’s online tool, although mail and in-person options are also available.

To use this tool, taxpayers must register for an IRS online account, which typically involves identity verification through a service like ID.me. This process requires providing personal information such as an SSN or ITIN, date of birth, filing status, mailing address, and a financial account number linked to the taxpayer’s name, such as a credit card or loan account. Additionally, users may need to upload photos of a government-issued ID and take a selfie for real-time identity matching.

For those unable to use the online tool, requesting an IP PIN by mail is an alternative using Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN). This form is typically available to individuals with an adjusted gross income (AGI) below specific thresholds ($84,000 for individuals or $168,000 for married filing jointly). Taxpayers must provide their SSN or ITIN, mailing address, and a telephone number where the IRS can contact them to verify their identity. After verification, the IP PIN is typically mailed to the taxpayer’s address within four to six weeks.

As a third option, taxpayers who cannot verify their identity online or via mail can schedule an in-person appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). During the appointment, taxpayers must present a current government-issued photo identification and another form of identification to prove their identity. Once identity is verified, the IP PIN is generally mailed to the taxpayer within three weeks. An IP PIN, once issued, must be used on all federal tax returns filed for that calendar year to avoid rejections or delays.

Understanding the Self-Select PIN (E-file PIN)

The Self-Select PIN, often referred to as an E-file PIN, is a five-digit number that taxpayers choose themselves when electronically filing their federal income tax return. This PIN serves as the taxpayer’s electronic signature, confirming their identity and authorizing the submission of their e-filed return.

Unlike the Identity Protection PIN, which is issued by the IRS for fraud prevention, the Self-Select PIN is created by the taxpayer for authentication during e-filing. It is not registered with the IRS beforehand; instead, it is chosen within the tax software or provided to a tax professional during the preparation of the electronic return.

Generating Your Self-Select PIN (E-file PIN)

Generating a Self-Select PIN occurs directly within the electronic filing process, typically through tax preparation software or with the assistance of a tax professional. Taxpayers do not need to contact the IRS in advance to obtain this PIN. Instead, the software or professional will prompt the taxpayer to create a five-digit number of their choosing, which cannot be all zeros.

To authenticate the taxpayer’s identity, the system usually requires specific information. The most common details needed are the taxpayer’s Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from the prior tax year or, if applicable, their Self-Select PIN from the previous year’s return. Providing the prior year’s AGI from Form 1040, line 11, is a standard method for verification, especially for first-time e-filers or those who do not recall a prior Self-Select PIN.