Renner Individual News; June 2, 2023

In this day and age of passwords, pins and two-step authentication, one security tool can make all the difference for taxpayers.

Identity Protection PINs are the No. 1 security tool available from the IRS, according to the Electronic Tax Administration Advisory Committee.

Taxpayers who participate in the program are assigned a six-digit number and they use it to prove their identity when they file their federal tax return, stopping identity thieves from filing fraudulent tax returns.

“IP PINS are only available for individual returns or taxpayers with a social security number, not entities with EINs,” said Paige Mason, tax manager at Renner and Company. “You do not need the PIN when filing an extension, but you will need your PIN if you file an amended return.”

How to get an IP PIN

In order to request a PIN, taxpayers must first verify their identity, then use the Get an IP PIN tool with a Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number to request a PIN online. The IRS advises taxpayers to review their identity verification requirements before trying to use the Get An IP PIN tool.

“Be sure to get your PIN early in the tax season, as the IRS can get overwhelmed with PIN requests and to avoid any verification issues,” Paige said. “You will need to create an ID.me account to use the Get an IP PIN tool.”

It’s especially advisable for taxpayers affected by identity theft to request an IP PIN, as it could prevent them from being a repeat victim of tax-related identity theft.

“Do not share your PIN with anyone, except your tax preparer,” Paige said. “Do NOT lose your PIN. Once you have a PIN, the IRS requires it to e-file your return.”

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 2023 threshold is $73,000 for individuals or $146,000 for married filing jointly.

Once the IRS receives the form, a representative will call the taxpayer at the phone number they provided to validate their identity. Once verified, the taxpayer will get an IP PIN in the mail, usually within 4-6 weeks.

Taxpayers who can’t validate their identity online or by phone, those who are ineligible to file a Form 15227, or are having or technical difficulties 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 on IP PINs

  • IP PINs are valid for one year. For security reasons, new ones are generated each year. Some participants will get their PIN in the mail, while others will need to log in to the Get an IP PIN tool to see their current PIN.
  • Enrolled taxpayers can use the Get an IP PIN tool to see their current IP PIN.
  • Taxpayers with an IP PIN must use it to file any federal tax returns, including prior year tax returns or amended returns. 
  • IP PIN users should share their number only with the IRS and their tax preparation provider. The IRS will never call, email or text a request for the IP PIN.
  • Taxpayers can get an IP PIN now for 2023. The IRS will issue new IP PINs starting in January 2024.

There’s more to know about this. Contact Renner and Company here to learn more about getting an IP PIN.

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