Beginning January, the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) Opt-In Program will be expanded to all eligible taxpayers. Taxpayers will need to properly verify their identities during the setup. The IP PIN is a six-digit number designed to help prevent the misuse of taxpayer's Social Security number on fraudulent federal income tax returns. With an IP PIN, taxpayers who previously struggled with e-filing due to ID theft can verify their identity and e-file their returns. Taxpayers can request an IP PIN at IRS.gov/IPPIN
IP PINs are mailed annually to confirmed victims and participants, who enrolled prior to 2019. Confirmed identity theft victims cannot opt out of the IP PIN program due to inherent security risks. For those who lost their pins, taxpayers can use the Get an IP PIN tool to retrieve their lost IP PINs.
IP PIN
Before applying for the IP PIN, taxpayers should note:
the "Get an IP PIN tool" will not be available until mid-January;
taxpayers who want to voluntarily opt into the IP PIN program do not need to file a Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit;
the IP PIN is valid for one year;
the IP PIN must be properly entered on electronic and paper tax returns to avoid rejections and delays;
taxpayers with either a Social Security number or Individual Tax Identification Number who can verify their identities are eligible for the opt-in program;
any primary taxpayer (listed first on the return), secondary taxpayer (listed second on the return) or dependent may obtain an IP PIN if they can pass the identity proofing requirements; and
the IRS plans to offer an opt out feature to the IP PIN program in 2022 if taxpayers find it is not right for them.
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