IRS IP PIN: Get One Before You File Your Taxes
A free six digit number that stops someone else filing a return in your name.
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An IRS Identity Protection PIN, or IP PIN, is a free six digit number that stops anyone else from filing a tax return with your Social Security number. Anyone who can verify their identity with the IRS can get one. It takes a few minutes online.
The best time to set it up is before tax season starts, not when you sit down to file. Here is how it works and how to avoid the mistakes that get a return rejected.
Key takeaways
- Get an IP PIN through your IRS online account or the IRS app. It is free.
- It is valid for one calendar year. You use a new one each year.
- A missing or wrong IP PIN gets a return filed online rejected.
What does an IP PIN actually do?
Tax return fraud often works like this: someone with your Social Security number files a fake return early and claims a refund. When you file, the IRS already has a return for you.
With an IP PIN, a return filed under your number must include it. Only you and the IRS know it. Think of it as a second lock on the door: a thief with your key still cannot get in.
How do I get an IP PIN?
The IRS offers three ways, from fastest to slowest:
- Online account or IRS app. Sign in to your IRS online account, or create one, and find the IP PIN section on your profile page. You have to verify your identity first. This is the fastest route.
- Form 15227. If you cannot verify online, you may qualify to apply with this form. The IRS sets an income limit based on your last return, and calls you to verify. The PIN usually arrives by mail in four to six weeks.
- In person. Book an appointment at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center and bring photo ID plus a second form of ID. The PIN usually arrives by mail in about three weeks.
Parents and guardians can request one for a dependent too. If the dependent is under 18, the online tool will not work; use the form or an appointment.
How do I use it each year?
- Look up this year's PIN before you file. It is good for one calendar year. A new one is made each year, so last year's number will not work.
- Enter it in your tax software, or give it to your preparer. Only give it to a tax professional you trust, and only when you are ready to file.
- Use it on late returns too. If you file a return for an earlier year during the year, it needs the current PIN as well.
- Lost it? Look it up again. Sign back in to your online account to see it. Do not file Form 15227 again just to get a new number.
Scams to watch for
The IRS will never call, email or text to ask for your IP PIN. Anyone who does is a scammer. Treat the number like a password: do not save it in an email or share it in a text.
Pair it with the other two checks every filer should do: read your pay stub line by line so your W-2 has no surprises, and if you have side income, see quarterly estimated payments.
Quick action checklist
- [ ] Create or sign in to your IRS online account this week.
- [ ] Request your IP PIN and save it in a password manager.
- [ ] Request one for your spouse and any dependents who need it.
- [ ] Add a yearly reminder to look up the new PIN before you file.
- [ ] Tell your tax preparer you now have one.
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This is general education, not personalized financial advice. Rules can change; check IRS.gov for the current details.
