An identity protection personal identification number (IP PIN) is a six digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number (SSN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN).

The IP PIN is known only to you and the IRS (and your tax preparer, if you share it). It helps the IRS verify your identity when you file your tax return.

If you’ve experienced tax-related identity theft and the IRS has resolved your tax account issues, the IRS will mail you a CP01A Notice with a new IP PIN each year. If you don’t already have an IP PIN, you can obtain one online as a proactive measure to protect yourself from future tax-related identity theft. If you obtain your own IP PIN, you will need to retrieve it from your online account each calendar year because the IRS won’t mail you a notice.

Anyone with an SSN or ITIN can get an IP PIN. The fastest way is to request one through your online account under your Profile page. If you don’t already have an account on irs.gov, you will need to register for an ID.me account to validate your identity. We’ve created two step-by-step guides to assist you in obtaining your IP PIN:

IP PIN Setup 6-25

ID. Me set up 6-25

Our office is happy to assist you in setting up your IP PIN. You can also access more information from the IRS website by clicking here.