In today’s scammer-heavy world, it should be no surprise that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) confirmed over 15,000 fraudulent tax returns in 2024, an increase from over 12,000 in 2023. What’s more, the average processing time for Identity Theft Victim Assistance (IDTVA) cases was approximately 676 days.
If you’re concerned about the prevalence of identity theft during tax season, then an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) may be right for you. Should someone try to file a fraudulent tax return using your Social Security number, the IRS will reject it if they don’t include the correct IP PIN. Child identity theft is also prevalent during tax season, and you can put a PIN on your child’s social security number as well.
Here’s how to apply for an IRS IP PIN for yourself.
What is an IRS IP PIN?
The IP PIN is a number assigned to you by the IRS that is used when filing your tax return. It’s an additional layer of protection to prevent criminals from filing a tax return in your name. By adding this PIN to your tax filings, you reduce the chances of fraud occurring on your account. If a criminal tries to file a tax return using your SSN and doesn’t have your IP PIN, the return will be flagged, and they will be unable to complete the process.
Why Should You Get an IRS IP PIN?
If you’re concerned about your personal information being compromised, the IP PIN program is highly recommended. It gives you more control over the filing process and ensures that no one else can fraudulently file a return using your information.
The IP PIN prevents fraudulent activity by requiring you to enter a specific number when filing your taxes. It helps protect your identity throughout the year, reducing the risk of fraud, especially during tax season.
Steps to Apply for an IRS IP PIN
There are two ways to apply for an IP PIN: online or by mail. The online method is the fastest and most straightforward. Follow these steps to apply online:
1. Confirm Eligibility
Before you begin the application process, make sure you are eligible to receive an IP PIN. The IRS offers the program to individuals who have been victims of identity theft, as well as those who wish to take extra precautions. If you’re filing a joint return, both spouses must have their own IP PIN.
2. Create an Account with the IRS
To apply for an IP PIN online, you’ll need to create an account with the IRS. Visit the official IRS website and navigate to the “Get an IP PIN” page. To set up your account, you’ll need the following:
- Your Social Security number (SSN)
- Your filing status (e.g., single, married)
- Your address from your most recent tax return
- A valid email address
- A personal account number (e.g., credit card, mortgage, or auto loan) for identity verification
3. Verify Your Identity
Once you’ve created your account, the IRS will verify your identity. This is an important step to make sure the IP PIN is being assigned to the correct person. The verification process might involve answering security questions about your financial history that only you would know.
4. Retrieve Your IP PIN
After your identity is verified, the IRS will issue you an IP PIN. You will be able to view the PIN immediately on the screen. It’s crucial to write it down and keep it safe. The IP PIN will change every year, so you’ll need to retrieve it each year during tax season.
5. Use Your IP PIN When Filing Taxes
Once you have your IP PIN, you’ll need to include it in your tax filing. You will be asked to enter the IP PIN when submitting your tax return electronically or on paper. If you forget your IP PIN or lose it, you can retrieve it through your online account or request a new one through the IRS.
Alternative Method: Applying by Mail
If you’re unable to apply for an IP PIN online, you can still apply by mail. The process takes longer, as the IRS will mail a physical IP PIN to the address on file. To apply by mail, follow these steps and start early so you don’t miss the filing deadline:
- File Form 15227: You’ll need to fill out IRS Form 15227, which is a request for an IP PIN.
- Submit the Form: Send the completed form to the address listed on the IRS website.
- Wait for Your IP PIN: It may take several weeks for the IRS to process your request and send you an IP PIN. Once you receive it, make sure to store it securely for future use.
What to Do If You Lose Your IP PIN
If you lose or forget your IP PIN, don’t panic. You can recover it using your IRS online account. If you can’t access your account, you can call the IRS help line for assistance or complete a form to request a new PIN.
Keep Your IP PIN Secure
Your IP PIN is a valuable tool for preventing tax-related identity theft, so it’s essential to keep it safe. Never share your PIN with anyone, and don’t store it with other sensitive information, such as your Social Security number. Treat it with the same level of care as your SSN.
Keeping Your Finances Safer with High-Security Banking
An IRS IP PIN is an effective way to safeguard your tax information and reduce the risk of identity theft. However, it doesn’t protect against scammers and identity thieves abilities to go after your bank account, especially with the amount of personal information we keep on the internet.
