How to Get a PIN for Your Bank Card or the IRS

A Personal Identification Number (PIN) is a numerical passcode used to authenticate a user’s identity across various systems and transactions. It acts as a security layer, verifying that the individual accessing an account or performing a transaction is authorized. PINs are widely used in daily financial activities, from withdrawing cash at an ATM to completing purchases with a debit or credit card. This numerical code helps safeguard sensitive information and financial resources by ensuring only the legitimate owner can approve actions.

Obtaining a Bank Card PIN

Acquiring or changing a PIN for a bank card involves specific security steps. Cardholders typically provide identifying information like the card number, account details, and personal verification data (e.g., last four digits of a Social Security Number, date of birth, or mother’s maiden name). This information helps the financial institution confirm the cardholder’s identity before proceeding with the PIN request.

Financial institutions offer several methods for managing bank card PINs. Many banks allow cardholders to handle PIN requests through their online banking portals. Users can navigate to a “Card Services” or “Manage PIN” section to generate a new PIN or change an existing one. The system guides them through a digital request process, often requiring a one-time passcode sent to a registered phone number for verification.

Another approach is using the bank’s automated phone system or speaking with a customer service representative. Cardholders call a dedicated number, select options related to PIN services, and enter required information via the keypad or verbally. This method relies on verifying the cardholder’s identity before a new PIN can be issued or set.

Some financial institutions offer PIN requests via mail. The bank sends a new or reissued PIN to the cardholder’s address on file, often in a separate mailing from the card for security. This process can take several business days or weeks. Visiting a bank branch is another option, where cardholders need to present a government-issued photo identification and may be asked for additional account verification details. A bank representative can assist in issuing a new PIN or facilitating a change.

Obtaining an IRS Identity Protection PIN

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), a unique six-digit number designed to prevent tax-related identity theft. This PIN adds a layer of security, verifying a taxpayer’s identity when they file their federal income tax return. It helps ensure that only the authorized individual, or their tax professional, can submit a return using their Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Anyone with an SSN or ITIN can obtain an IP PIN. To request an IP PIN, taxpayers need to provide their SSN or ITIN, date of birth, filing status, and information from a prior year’s tax return, such as their Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). The IRS offers three methods for obtaining an IP PIN.

The fastest method is using the IRS online “Get an IP PIN” tool, available from mid-January to mid-November. To use this tool, individuals must create or log into an IRS.gov account, which involves a robust identity verification process. This often requires an email address, SSN/ITIN, tax filing status, and mailing address, along with a self-service process that may involve uploading a photo of a government ID and a selfie, or a video call with an ID.me agent. Once verified, the IP PIN for the current tax year is immediately accessible through the online profile.

Alternatively, taxpayers can request an IP PIN by mail using Form 15227. This option is available to individuals whose Adjusted Gross Income on their last filed return is below certain thresholds (e.g., $84,000 for individuals or $168,000 for married filing jointly). After submitting the form, the IRS will contact the taxpayer by phone to verify their identity, and the IP PIN is mailed within four to six weeks.

For those unable to verify their identity online or through Form 15227, an in-person appointment at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) is an option. Taxpayers need to schedule an appointment and bring specific identification documents, such as a government-issued photo ID. After identity verification at the TAC, the IP PIN is mailed to the taxpayer, usually within three weeks. A new IP PIN is issued annually and must be used when filing federal tax returns to avoid rejections or delays.

Managing and Protecting Your PINs

Managing and protecting your PINs is important for maintaining financial security. When creating a PIN, avoid easily guessable combinations such as birth dates, sequential numbers like “1234,” or repetitive digits like “1111.” Choosing a unique numerical sequence reduces the risk of unauthorized access. Some find it helpful to associate a word with the numbers on a phone keypad to create a memorable yet secure PIN.

Memorizing PINs is recommended over writing them down in easily accessible places. If written storage is unavoidable, use secure, encrypted methods, such as a reputable password manager. Never share PINs with anyone, as financial institutions and the IRS will never ask for your PIN over the phone or via email.

Vigilance against phishing attempts and other scams is important. Fraudsters may try to trick individuals into revealing their PINs through deceptive communications. Be suspicious of unsolicited requests for this sensitive information. Regularly changing PINs, especially if compromise is suspected, adds another layer of security. Adopting these practices enhances the protection of accounts and personal financial data.