You can follow steps from the IRS to request an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to prevent tax fraud and verify your identity when filing returns. These methods include online account registration, submitting Form 15227, or visiting in person.
What it does
According to the IRS, an identity protection PIN (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, helping verify your identity when you file electronic or paper tax returns.
Before you start
The IRS states that anyone who has an SSN or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) and is able to verify their identity is eligible to enroll. Parents and legal guardians can also request an IP PIN for dependents. If you or your dependent are under age 18, you must use alternative enrollment options.
Steps
Step 1: Request an IP PIN through your online account in the IP PIN section of your profile page. If you do not already have an account on IRS.gov, the IRS says you must register to validate your identity.
Step 2: If you cannot establish an online account and your adjusted gross income on your last filed return is below $84,000 for individuals or $168,000 for married filing joint, the IRS states you can submit Form 15227 online, providing a telephone number so the agency can call and validate your identity.
Step 3: If you are unable to verify online or via Form 15227, the IRS says you may make an appointment for an in-person meeting at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center, bringing required identification documents.
What the company says
The IRS states that an IP PIN is valid for one calendar year and a new IP PIN is generated each year. The IRS warns that you should not reveal your IP PIN to anyone and that the agency will never ask for your IP PIN.
What to do
- Request an IP PIN through your IRS.gov online account profile page.
- Submit Form 15227 online if your income is below the threshold and you cannot use an online account.
- Schedule an in-person appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center if other verification methods are unavailable.
Key facts and where they come from
- An IP PIN is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number.
An identity protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number
- Anyone with an SSN or ITIN who can verify their identity is eligible to enroll in the program.
Anyone who has an SSN or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) and is able to verify his/her identity is eligible to enroll into the IP PIN program.
- Form 15227 requires an adjusted gross income below $84,000 for individuals or $168,000 for married filing joint.
If your adjusted gross income on your last filed return is below $84,000 for Individuals or $168,000 for married filing joint
