Taxpayers Identity Protection PIN Opt-In Program

The Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) is a 6-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers. It helps prevent identity thieves from filing fraudulent tax returns with stolen Social Security numbers (SSNs). An IP PIN helps the IRS verify taxpayers’ identities and accept their electronic or paper tax returns for processing. The IRS issues IP PINs to confirmed identity theft victims once their cases are resolved. This process is unchanged. What is new for 2020 is the expanded number of taxpayers who are not IDT victims but who are eligible to opt into the IP PIN program. These taxpayers can opt-in by using the Get an IP PIN tool on IRS.gov.

Who is eligible for the IP PIN Opt-In Program?

IP PIN eligibility for taxpayers who want to opt into the program is expanding in phases. At the start of the 2020 filing season, you may opt into the program if you filed a federal return last year from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas and Washington. Additional locations will be eligible later in 2020.

About the IP PIN Opt-in Program

The IP PIN is a valuable tool against tax-related identity theft. Here’s what you need to know before applying:

• You must pass a rigorous identity verification process.
• Only the online process is available. We are working on alternatives.
• Spouses and dependents are eligible for an IP PIN if they can pass the identity proofing process.
• An IP PIN is valid for a calendar year.
• You must obtain a new IP PIN each year.
• The IP PIN tool is unavailable mid-November through mid-January each year.
• Correct IP PINs must be entered on electronic and paper tax returns to avoid rejections and delays.

How to Get an IP PIN

Eligible taxpayers who want an IP PIN can go to www.irs.gov/ippin to access the Get an IP PIN tool. Taxpayers who do not already have an account, must register with the IRS.

Make sure you have all the necessary identity verification items:

• Email address
• Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)
• Tax filing status and mailing address
• One financial account number linked to your name:
  • Credit card – last 8 digits (no American Express, debit or corporate cards) or
  • Student loan or
  • Mortgage or home equity loan or
  • Home equity line of credit (HELOC) or
  • Auto loan
• Mobile phone linked to your name (for faster registration) or ability to receive an activation code by mail

See www.irs.gov/secureaccess for tips on how to successfully authenticate your identity. Once you are registered and able to access the Get an IP PIN tool, your six-digit number will be revealed to you.

IMPORTANT: The IRS will never email, text or call you to request your IP PIN. Do not reveal your IP PIN to anyone but your trusted tax software provider or tax preparer. Neither your provider nor preparer will ask for your IP PIN except to complete your tax return. Protect your IP PIN from theft, especially scams.