How Do I Get an Ip Pin for My Protection with the IRS?

An IP PIN is a six-digit number that the IRS issues to taxpayers to help protect their identity when filing taxes. The IP PIN is used in addition to your social security number (SSN) to help verify your identity when filing taxes. You can apply online or receive one by mail if you are eligible and live in the United States to get an IP PIN.

Adam Goldkamp is the editor / author responsible for this content.
Dec 9, 2022

When it comes to tax season, many things go into ensuring your taxes are filed correctly. The IRS offers an IP PIN, or identity protection pin, which helps to protect your identity when filing your taxes. If you're not sure how to get an IP PIN, keep reading for more information.

What Is An IP PIN?

An IP PIN is a six-digit number that the IRS issues to taxpayers to help protect their identity when filing taxes. The IP PIN is used in addition to your social security number (SSN) to help verify your identity when filing taxes.

Who Needs An IP PIN?

Not everyone needs an IP PIN. Only certain taxpayers are eligible for an IP PIN. Eligible taxpayers include those who have had their identities stolen and had to file Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, with the IRS, as well as those who are required to file Form 8606, Nondeductible IRA Contributions, each year.

How Do I Get An IP PIN?

There are two main ways that you can get an IP PIN.

Filing an Application for an IP PIN

If you're eligible for an IP PIN, you can apply for one online. To do so, you'll need to provide your name, SSN (Social Security Number), address, date of birth and email address. You can apply for an IP PIN at https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-an-ip-pin.

In order to apply for an IP PIN, you must have a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. It's essential to provide a valid telephone number as the team will reach out to you. After validating your identity, they'll send your IP PIN. This is usually through the U.S. Postal Service.

Receiving an IP PIN by Mail

If you're not comfortable applying for an IP PIN online, the IRS can send you an IP PIN by mail. To receive an IP PIN by mail, you must be eligible and live in the United States. The IRS will only mail IP PINs to the address associated with your SSN. If you have moved, update your address with the Social Security Administration (SSA) first and then wait 30 days before applying for an IP PIN.

Once you've updated your address with the SSA, complete the Form W-14, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, and mail it to the IRS address listed on the form. You must include a copy of your identification, such as your driver's license or passport.

After the IRS processes your application, they will mail you an IP PIN. Call IRS customer support if you don't receive an IP PIN after applying.

Requesting In-Person Authentication for an IP PIN

If you cannot apply for an IP PIN online or by mail, you can request in-person authentication from the IRS. To do so, you'll need to go to an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center and provide valid identification, such as your driver's license or passport.

Once the IRS authenticates your identity, they will issue you an IP PIN. Remember that not all Taxpayer Assistance Centers offer this service, so it's best to call ahead and confirm. Reach out to the customer support team when a problem emerges.

How Do I Use An IP PIN?

An IP PIN is only valid for one tax year. When you're ready to file your taxes, enter your IP PIN in the appropriate field on your tax return. If you're filing your taxes electronically, the IP PIN will be entered for you.

The IP PIN is a valuable tool the IRS offers to protect taxpayers' identities. If you're eligible for an IP PIN, be sure to apply for one. If you have any questions, the IRS has a wealth of information available on its website.

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Adam has been tirelessly trying to help customers find the best tips and tricks to get through phone trees and writing many guides for prickly customer service problems. He's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Inside Edition and Bloomberg.
How Do I Get an Ip Pin for My Protection with the IRS?

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How Do I Get An IP PIN for My Protection With the IRS?
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