People can protect themselves from tax-related identity theft with an Identity Protection PIN

Identity Protection PINs stop identity thieves from filing fraudulent tax returns. When a taxpayer chooses to participate in this program, the IRS assigns them a six-digit number which the taxpayer uses to prove their identity when they file their tax return. This extra layer of protection provides peace of mind, especially for people who have already been a victim of identity theft.

How to get an IP PIN

The Get An IP PIN tool lets people with an SSN or ITIN request an IP PIN online after they verify their identity. Taxpayers should review the Secure Access requirements before they try to use the Get An IP PIN tool.

Tax pros can help clients affected by identity theft by urging them to get an IP PIN quickly. Even if a thief has already filed a fraudulent tax return, an IP PIN would prevent the taxpayer from being a repeat victim of tax-related identity theft in the future.

Important information about IP PINs

• For security reasons, enrolled participants get a new IP PIN each year. That IP PIN is valid for one year.
• Enrolled taxpayers can log back into the Get An IP PIN tool to see their current IP PIN.
• People with an IP PIN must use it when filing any federal tax returns during the year, including prior year tax returns.
• IP PIN users should only share their number with the IRS and their trusted tax preparation provider. The IRS will never call, email or text a request for the IP PIN.
• Currently, taxpayers can get an IP PIN for 2022. The IRS will issue new IP PINs starting in January 2023.

Taxpayers who can’t validate their identity online can still get an IP PIN

Taxpayers who can’t validate their identity online, and whose income is below a certain threshold, can file Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number. The 2022 threshold is $73,000 for individuals or $146,000 for married filing jointly.

Once an IRS receives the form, a representative will call the phone number the taxpayer provided to validate the taxpayer’s identity. However, for security reasons, the IRS will assign an IP PIN for the next filing season, and the taxpayer can’t use the IP PIN for the current filing season.

Taxpayers who can’t validate their identity online or by phone, and who are ineligible to file a Form 15227 can make an appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. They will need to bring one current government-issued picture ID and another identification document to prove their identity. Once verified, the taxpayer will get an IP PIN in the mail, usually within three weeks.

More information:
Publication 5367 EN-SP, IP PIN Opt-In Program for Taxpayers
Publication 4557, Safeguarding Taxpayer Data
Publication 5293, Data Security Resource Guide for Tax Professionals
Identity Theft Central

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