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Get an IRS IP PIN: The Ultimate Guide to Find and Retrieve Your IP PIN Number for Tax Identity Protection

Published: February 11, 2025
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The IRS IP PIN (Identity Protection Personal Identification Number) is a specialized, six-digit code created by the IRS to help taxpayers safeguard their federal tax returns from identity theft and fraud. If a cybercriminal obtains your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), they could file a fraudulent return claiming your refund before you even realize it. An IP PIN makes this type of fraud far more complex. When you use an IP PIN on your tax return, that extra layer of security confirms it’s you—not someone else—sending sensitive financial information to the IRS.

If you’ve never used an IP PIN before, you might be unsure whether you qualify, how to apply, or how to retrieve a missing or forgotten number. This comprehensive article will walk you through the process so you feel confident about protecting your tax information. Whether you’re a taxpayer worried about identity theft or simply being proactive by adding an extra layer of security, an IP PIN can provide peace of mind and smoother tax filing.

Beyond that peace of mind, it’s a good idea to get your IP PIN well before you submit your tax documents to your CPA or other tax preparer—having it on hand helps prevent delays in e-filing. Otherwise, if your CPA files your return and the IP PIN is missing or incorrect, the IRS could reject the return, slowing down any refund you’re due and lengthening your wait.

In this article, we’ll discuss:

  • Why having an IP PIN is advantageous for identity protection.
  • How to sign up for an IP PIN online through the IRS website (irs.gov IP PIN resources).
  • How to find your existing IP PIN if you’ve misplaced your CP01A notice or forgotten your login credentials.
  • When and why the IRS mails IP PINs to certain taxpayers, and how to plan accordingly each year.
  • How to get an IP PIN for your child (or other dependents) to ensure the whole family is protected.
  • Key best practices for safely storing your IP PIN so you’re always ready to share it with your CPA.

Throughout this guide, you’ll find easy-to-read bullet points, checklists, and FAQs to clarify each concept. We want you to understand the process thoroughly. This practical approach helps keep you informed and saves you time, money, and hassle.

If you want more background on working with the right tax professional after you secure your IP PIN, consider reading How to Choose the Right Tax Preparer: A Comprehensive Guide for Individuals and Businesses for additional information. Once you’ve submitted your return with your IP PIN, you might be curious about the status of your tax refund, so check out Where’s My Refund: A Comprehensive Guide to Tracking Your Tax Refunds for 2025.

With that said, let’s start by examining the many benefits and reasons behind using an IP PIN.

Published: February 11, 2025

Table Of Contents
  1. Understanding the Benefits of an IP PIN
  2. How to Get an IP PIN from the IRS
  3. How to Get an IP PIN for My Child Online
  4. How to Find My IP PIN
  5. How to Retrieve IP PIN If You’ve Lost Login Details
  6. Best Practices for Using Your IP PIN
  7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  8. Conclusion

Understanding the Benefits of an IP PIN

An IRS IP PIN is more than just another layer of paperwork. It provides multiple advantages that can make a real difference in your tax filing experience:

  1. Enhanced Protection Against Identity Theft
    • Someone with your SSN or ITIN can file a fraudulent tax return in your name. By requiring a unique six-digit IP PIN each year, the IRS helps ensure that only you can file using your information.
    • Even if criminals steal your details, they won’t be able to file a valid tax return without the correct IP PIN.
  2. Reduced Risk of Delayed or Rejected Returns
    • Tax returns filed without your correct IP PIN are usually rejected by the IRS system, preventing fraudulent refund claims. This also means you must enter the number accurately to avoid delays.
    • If you forget to include your IP PIN, the IRS may suspect fraud, resulting in potential rejections or holds on your return.
  3. Peace of Mind
    • Taxes can be stressful as they are, and the possibility of identity theft only compounds that stress. An IP PIN eases worry by reassuring you that an extra hurdle blocks thieves.
    • With an IP PIN, the IRS can quickly identify if someone tries to file with your information, allowing you to remedy potential problems immediately.
  4. Annual Renewal Ensures Ongoing Security
    • Each year, a new IP PIN is generated for participants in the program, usually around December or January. This annual refresh keeps criminals guessing.
    • Because it’s only good for that single filing year, your code effectively “self-expires,” eliminating the chance that an older code can be used in future filing seasons.
  5. Availability to All Taxpayers
    • Years ago, IP PINs were primarily for confirmed identity theft victims. Now, the IRS encourages all taxpayers, regardless of past identity theft history, to sign up for an IP PIN as a proactive measure.
    • This inclusivity allows individuals and families to add an extra barrier against theft before suspicious activity occurs.
  6. Works for Paper and Electronic Filings
    • You can use your IP PIN whether you’re e-filing or submitting paper returns, although it is more commonly relied upon for e-filed returns.
    • Regardless of your filing method, be aware that the IRS requires the same IP PIN to accept your return.

All these benefits tie into why the IRS has recommended that more taxpayers enroll in the IP PIN program. It’s free and easy to access (as long as you can verify your identity), and it could save you significant time and hassle.

In the next section, we’ll guide you through the steps you need to follow to get an IP PIN from the IRS.

How to Get an IP PIN from the IRS

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or lost your CP01A notice, obtaining an IP PIN remains the same. The IRS has streamlined the process in recent years to encourage broader use. Below is a straightforward approach to “how to get IP PIN from IRS” resources available on irs.gov IP PIN pages.

  1. Online Request Through an IRS Account
    • Access irs.gov: The quickest method is to head directly to the “Get an IP PIN” tool on the IRS website, usually accessible through your IRS Online Account.
    • Log In or Create an Account: If you have an existing account, sign in. If not, you must create one, which includes identity verification steps such as scanning a photo ID and confirming personal details.
    • Completing Verification: You may be asked to input personal information (e.g., SSN or ITIN, date of birth, account numbers related to credit cards, mortgage, or auto loans). The IRS uses a third-party identity service to confirm it’s you.
    • Receive Your IP PIN Digitally: You should see your new IP PIN after successful verification. In many cases, it’s displayed immediately on the screen. Make sure to note it down in a secure place.
  2. When Does IRS Mail IP PIN Notices?
    • For certain groups, especially confirmed identity theft victims, the IRS still automatically mails a CP01A notice with the IP PIN for the upcoming filing season. Typically, these notices arrive in December or early January.
    • If you’re expecting an IP PIN by mail and it hasn’t arrived by mid-January, you may need to try the online tool or contact the IRS to see if it’s available.
    • Each CP01A notice is year-specific, so using the correct IP PIN for the proper tax year is crucial.
  3. Form 15227: An Alternate Option
    • If you can’t verify your identity online, you may complete Form 15227 (Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number). This form is used primarily if your annual income falls below a certain threshold (the IRS updates these amounts, often around $72,000 or less).
    • Mail or fax the form to the IRS, and they’ll contact you to validate your identity over the phone. Expect to provide specific documentation or answer questions about your personal history.
  4. In-Person Appointment
    • You can schedule an in-person appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center for those with difficulty completing the online or mail-in process.
    • Bring valid photo identification, SSN or ITIN, and other required documentation. An IRS employee will verify your identity face to face, and once confirmed, you’ll be sent your IP PIN in the mail.
  5. Annual Renewal
    • Each year, your IP PIN resets. If you used the online program last year, log in to your IRS Online Account around December or early January to see your new six-digit IP PIN.
    • Please keep track of your annual IP PIN to prepare once tax season rolls around.
  6. Using the IP PIN to File
    • Whether you file electronically or on paper, you must enter the current year’s IP PIN on your tax return. This step ensures the IRS recognizes your identity.
    • Using a software product will typically prompt you for the IP PIN near the signature or e-file authorization section. If you use a paid preparer, provide the number to them in advance.

Following these steps, you can “get an IP PIN” and proceed with a secure tax filing. In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into how families can set up IP PINs for dependents so no one in your household remains vulnerable to identity thieves.

How to Get an IP PIN for My Child Online

For parents and guardians, it’s easy to focus on your filing obligations, but criminals can target dependents too. Children’s SSNs can be used to claim refunds or manipulate identity records fraudulently. Fortunately, the IRS has also made it possible to secure IP PINs for children. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Verify Eligibility
    • Dependents must have an SSN or ITIN.
    • If you can get your IP PIN, you can also request one for a qualified dependent.
  2. Access the IRS Online Account
    • The process can often be completed using the same IRS Online Account you use for your IP PIN.
    • Once logged in, look for the section regarding dependents or “Add a Dependent’s IP PIN.”
  3. Complete Identity Verification
    • To add a child, you may need to supply proof of your relationship (such as birth certificates or guardianship documents) if the IRS requests them.
    • You also must verify the child’s SSN or ITIN.
  4. Receive the Dependent’s IP PIN
    • Often, once the dependent’s identity is verified, the IP PIN is displayed immediately.
    • Make sure to store this in a secure place, just as you would your code.
  5. Renew Annually
    • Each child’s IP PIN is also valid for one calendar year, meaning you’ll need to retrieve a new one each tax season if you want that protection to continue.
  6. Use the IP PIN Correctly
    • When filing your tax return and listing dependents, there will be a prompt for each dependent’s IP PIN in most tax software.
    • If you provide the documents to your CPA, give them the child’s IP PIN and yours to avoid rejection.

Ensuring your child is protected reduces the likelihood of someone misusing a child’s SSN for fraudulent refunds. This can help you avoid confusion and heartbreak, as a child may not discover identity theft issues until later in life.

How to Find My IP PIN

If you’ve already been assigned an IP PIN but can’t recall where you put it, don’t panic. Many filers realize their IP PIN might be missing only when it’s time to file, so you’re not alone. You have multiple ways to locate it:

  • Check Your CP01A Notice:
    • The annual CP01A notice (often mailed in December or early January) lists your IP PIN for the upcoming filing season. If you keep last year’s tax documents organized, check any official mail from the IRS.
  • Log In to Your IRS Online Account:
  • Call the IRS if Necessary:
    • Although phone lines can be busy, calling the IRS can be helpful if you cannot access your online account.
    • The agent can guide you through identity verification steps and help you determine what your assigned IP PIN is or if you need a new one.
  • Request a Reprint of the CP01A Notice:
    • While not always immediate, you can ask the IRS to resend you a copy. Remember that snail mail can take time, which might slow your filing process.
  • Confirm You’re Looking for the Right Year’s IP PIN:
    • If you previously filed with an IP PIN, remember that last year’s number is no longer valid. Make sure you’re searching for the current year’s six-digit code.

Once you have your IP PIN, store it securely. If your CPA or tax preparer handles your return, pass this number on to them. Providing it at the outset helps avoid e-filing holdups.

How to Retrieve IP PIN If You’ve Lost Login Details

Sometimes, the real challenge isn’t losing your IP PIN but losing your IRS Online Account login details (e.g., your username, password, or multi-factor authentication). If you can’t access your IRS account, you have a few paths forward:

  1. Resetting Your IRS Online Account
    • Head to irs.gov and click on the sign-in portal for Online Account or “Get an IP PIN.”
    • Select the “Forgot Username/Password” link.
    • Follow the prompts to verify your identity. This may involve receiving a code on your phone or email, answering security questions, or re-verifying your data.
    • Once the reset is complete, log in and retrieve your IP PIN.
  2. Calling the IRS
    • If you can’t complete the automated reset, an IRS representative can assist you. Be prepared to offer personal details, such as your SSN and address history, for identity verification.
    • This option might require patience, as IRS phone lines can be congested during peak tax season.
  3. Filing Form 15227 or Scheduling an In-Person Appointment
    • If you still can’t regain access, you can complete the mail/fax process through Form 15227 or set an appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center, as described earlier in this article.
    • Receiving a new IP PIN via mail might take a few weeks, so plan accordingly to avoid last-minute chaos.
  4. Double-Check Third-Party Identity Services
    • The IRS uses third-party verification tools (sometimes ID.me or a similar service). When performing online identity checks, ensure you have all required documents, such as a driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID.
    • If you changed your phone number or moved recently, updating that information will be vital to pass verification.

Remember, the sooner you sort out your online access, the quicker you can get or retrieve your IP PIN. Find yourself needing more guidance on choosing a preparer while sorting out these details. You might read How to Choose the Right Tax Preparer: A Comprehensive Guide for Individuals and Businesses so you’re fully prepared when you do have your IP PIN in hand.

Best Practices for Using Your IP PIN

Having an IP PIN is only the first step in protecting your identity. Next, you must use and store it properly:

  1. Store It Securely
    • Keep your IP PIN documentation in a locked file cabinet or password-protected digital folder.
    • Don’t carry it in your wallet or phone notes. If a thief gains physical access to your number, they might attempt to file a return on your behalf.
  2. Share With Your Tax Preparer Early
    • If you rely on a CPA or tax professional, provide your IP PIN as soon as you hand over other tax documents. This ensures your preparer includes it in the e-file, preventing IRS rejections.
    • If you neglect to give your preparer the IP PIN, your return might get delayed, especially if they attempt e-filing without it.
  3. Confirm You’re Using the Right IP PIN for the Right Year
    • Your IP PIN changes each tax season, so be sure you have the current six-digit code for the year you’re filing. Using an expired IP PIN can lead to an automatic rejection.
  4. Never Share It With Unauthorized Individuals
    • Beware of scam phone calls, text messages, or emails claiming to be from the IRS or your tax preparer asking for the IP PIN. Confirm the authenticity first, especially if it’s an unsolicited request.
    • The IRS typically doesn’t initiate contact via phone or email for an IP PIN.
  5. Monitor Your Tax Account
    • Even with an IP PIN, stay vigilant. Periodically log in to your IRS Online Account to ensure no strange activity has occurred.
    • Watch for unexpected notices from the IRS. Contact the IRS immediately if you receive a letter about a return you didn’t file.
  6. Renew Annually
    • Mark your calendar for December or January to check for your new IP PIN. Keep an eye out for a CP01A notice in the mail.
    • If registered for an IP PIN online, log in to retrieve your new code for the next filing season.
  7. Retain Documentation
    • Save copies of all notices, IP PIN confirmations, or forms you submit to the IRS, mainly if you used Form 15227 or scheduled an in-person appointment.
    • Should any filing discrepancies arise, these documents could prove extremely helpful.

By following these best practices, you drastically reduce your risk of being victimized by identity thieves and ensure a smooth, error-free filing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is an IRS IP PIN exactly, and do I need one if I haven’t been a victim of identity theft?


An IRS IP PIN is a unique six-digit number used by the IRS to verify a taxpayer’s identity on a tax return. You don’t have to be a victim of identity theft to request one. The IRS now recommends that all interested taxpayers sign up to reduce the chance of fraudulent filings.

When does the IRS mail IP PIN notices, and what if I miss mine?


The IRS usually sends IP PIN notices (CP01A) in December or January. If you’re supposed to receive one that doesn’t arrive, you can log in to your IRS Online Account to retrieve your IP PIN or check the irs.gov IP PIN portal. You can also call the IRS or use Form 15227 if the online method is inaccessible.

How do I get an IP PIN from the IRS if my online login fails?


If you can’t sign in or create an account online, you have two primary alternatives:

  1. Fill out Form 15227 and mail/fax it to the IRS, where you’ll verify your identity over the phone.
  2. Schedule an in-person appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center to verify identity documents.
    After verification, the IRS will mail your IP PIN to you.

How do I get an IP PIN for my child online?


Log in to your IRS Online Account and select the option to add a dependent’s IP PIN. You’ll need your child’s SSN or ITIN and possibly additional documentation. Once verified, the IP PIN will appear, and you can use it for that tax year’s return.

Does having an IP PIN guarantee I won’t be a victim of tax fraud?


An IP PIN doesn’t provide a guarantee, but it significantly lowers the likelihood of criminals successfully filing a fraudulent return in your name. By having an IP PIN, any tax return attempt missing that six-digit code is typically rejected.

Conclusion

The IRS IP PIN program is a powerful tool designed to protect taxpayers from one of the fastest-growing forms of financial fraud: identity theft during tax filing. By taking a few simple steps—verifying your identity, retrieving your IP PIN, and sharing it securely with your tax preparer—you can ensure that your return is accepted quickly and accurately by the IRS. The program is available to all taxpayers, including children and dependents, allowing entire households to benefit from this extra layer of security.

Beyond safeguarding your data, obtaining your IP PIN in advance helps your return gets processed faster, shortens refund wait times, and prevents last-minute scrambles. Whether turning to a professional or filing independently, having this six-digit number on hand is a game-changer. For a smooth tax season, keep track of annual deadlines, including IP PIN mailings and your filing date. You can read more about essential deadlines in The Ultimate Guide to Federal Income Tax Deadlines if you’re looking to keep your calendar up to date.

Finally, once you’re set with your IP PIN, let a tax expert preparer start to finish taxes for you. If you’re looking for an expert tax preparer, consider SDO CPA and see how a professional can take the guesswork out of your filing process.

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