How Do I Put a PIN on My Child’s Social Security Number?

Safeguarding your child’s financial future is a critical responsibility for parents in an era where identity theft is increasingly common. One effective way to protect against unauthorized use of your child’s Social Security Number (SSN) is by obtaining an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN).

This article provides a clear guide on how to secure an IP PIN for minors, helping to ensure their sensitive information remains safe from misuse.

Eligibility Requirements for a Minor’s IP PIN

To obtain an IP PIN for a minor, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires the minor to have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to track and protect their tax records. Additionally, the minor must be listed as a dependent on a federal tax return, which is common for children under 18.

If the minor has been a victim of identity theft, they automatically qualify for an IP PIN. In such cases, the IRS may issue a CP01A Notice, which includes the IP PIN for the upcoming tax year. Parents should store this notice securely, as the IP PIN is necessary for filing tax returns.

Proof of Identity and Residency

Applying for an IP PIN requires proof of identity and residency to confirm that the requester is authorized to act on the minor’s behalf. The IRS requires documents to verify the identities and addresses of both the minor and the parent or guardian. For identity verification, a certified copy of the minor’s birth certificate or a valid passport is sufficient.

Acceptable residency proof includes recent utility bills, school records, or medical statements showing the minor’s address. These documents must typically be dated within the last three months. For parents or guardians, a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, paired with a recent utility bill, often satisfies residency requirements. This verification process safeguards against fraudulent requests.

Online Application Steps

The IRS provides an online platform to apply for an IP PIN. Before starting, create an account on the IRS’s Identity Protection PIN portal, which will serve as the primary communication and tracking tool for the application.

After setting up the account, enter the required information about your child, including their full name, Social Security Number, and date of birth. Accuracy is crucial, as errors can cause delays or rejection. Provide your own information as the parent or guardian to confirm your authority to request the IP PIN. The system guides users through the process to reduce errors.

You may need to upload clear and legible digital copies of identity and residency proof documents. Ensure the files meet the IRS’s format and size requirements to avoid upload issues. Once all information is submitted, a confirmation number is provided for tracking the application.

Rejection Factors

Applications for an IP PIN can be rejected for several reasons. One common issue is submitting incomplete or incorrect information. The IRS relies on precise data to match records, so even small discrepancies can result in denial. Double-check all entries for accuracy before submitting.

Another frequent problem is unclear or insufficient documentation. The IRS requires high-quality, complete copies of identity and residency proofs. Blurred or partial documents do not meet standards and can lead to rejection. Verify that all documents are clear and properly formatted to avoid delays.

Steps After Receiving the IP PIN

Once you receive the IP PIN for your child, it’s important to understand how to use and protect it. The six-digit IP PIN must be entered when filing federal tax returns to verify identity and prevent fraudulent filings. Each year, the IRS issues a new IP PIN, typically in December or January, which must be used for that tax year.

Keep the IP PIN secure and accessible only to those responsible for filing the minor’s tax returns. Avoid sharing it unnecessarily or saving it in easily accessible digital formats. If the IP PIN is lost or misplaced, contact the IRS promptly to retrieve or reset it to maintain protection.