Information Regarding IP PIN's

What is an identity protection PIN (IP PIN)?

A six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your SSN or ITIN.

Note: A new IP PIN will be generated each year. If you try using a prior year IP PIN your return will be rejected and cannot be processed without the current IP PIN.

 

Who gets assigned an IP PIN?

If you are a victim of identity theft OR you choose to opt-in to receive one.

If you are a confirmed victim of tax-related identity theft and the IRS has resolved your tax account issues, they will mail you a CP01A Notice with your new IP PIN each year.

If you opted in online to get an IP PIN, you will not receive a CP01A notice, you must retrieve your IP PIN online beginning in early January every year.

Note: If the IRS assigned you an IP PIN, you must use it to confirm your identity on any return filed during the current calendar year. 

 

What is a CP01A Notice?

From mid-December through early January, CP01A notices are sent to taxpayers eligible to receive an IP PIN.

Below is a screenshot of what you will receive in the mail. It is very important to not misplace this letter to avoid delays/rejections when filing your income tax return. 

 

How can I retrieve my IP PIN?

Use your IRS online account to retrieve your current IP PIN. Go to: irs.gov > Sign In (located in the top right corner) > Profile (located in the top right corner) > Identity Protection Pin (left side of page). 

Note 1: If you don’t already have an account on IRS.gov, you will be asked to create an account and validate your identity (through ID.Me)

Note 2: A minor dependent IP PIN cannot be retrieved online. To retrieve a minor dependent IP PIN call 800-908-4490. Monday - Friday 7:00am - 7:00pm local time. 

 

Sources: 

https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin

https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/retrieve-your-ip-pin

https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-identity-protection-personal-identification-number-ip-pin

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp01a-notice

https://www.hrblock.com/tax-center/irs/audits-and-tax-notices/irs-notice-cp01a-irs-assigned-ip-pin/