The IRS Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) is a crucial security feature designed to protect taxpayers from identity theft and fraudulent tax returns. However, if a taxpayer forgets or loses their IP PIN, they will need to recover it to file their taxes successfully. The process of retrieving an IP PIN involves verifying their identity and interacting with the IRS through official channels.
Understanding the IP PIN
The IP PIN is a unique six-digit number issued annually by the Internal Revenue Service to those who are at higher risk of identity theft. It serves as an additional layer of security when filing tax returns, ensuring that only the rightful taxpayer can submit their return using their Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Unlike a traditional PIN used for banking or online services, the IRS IP PIN changes each year, so taxpayers must obtain their new IP PIN before filing their tax return for the current year.
Steps to Recover a Lost or Forgotten IP PIN
If a taxpayer has lost or forgotten their IP PIN, the IRS provides several methods to recover it:
1. Use the IRS “Get an IP PIN” Tool
The fastest way to retrieve a lost IP PIN is by using the IRS online tool:
- Visit the IRS Get an IP PIN page.
- Click on “Get an IP PIN.”
- Log in with an IRS account or create one if necessary.
- After successfully verifying identity, the current IP PIN will be displayed.
Accessing the online tool requires successfully passing IRS identity verification, which may involve answering security questions, providing financial documents, or using two-factor authentication.
2. Retrieve IP PIN via IRS Letter
The IRS mails IP PINs to eligible taxpayers each December. Taxpayers who received an IP PIN in the past and are still eligible should check their mail for IRS Notice CP01A, which contains their current IP PIN.
3. Request a Replacement IP PIN
If a taxpayer cannot retrieve their IP PIN using the online tool or their letter, they can request a replacement:
- Call the IRS at 800-908-4490 for identity verification.
- Provide necessary documentation, such as Social Security Number, date of birth, and past return details.
- If identity is verified successfully, the IRS may send a replacement IP PIN via mail.
4. Filing a Tax Return Without an IP PIN
If a taxpayer cannot retrieve their IP PIN before the tax deadline, they may still submit their tax return. However:
- The IRS may delay processing the return to verify the taxpayer’s identity.
- This could result in postponed refunds and additional verification steps.
- In some cases, the IRS may reject an electronically filed return that lacks a required IP PIN.
Preventing Future IP PIN Issues
To avoid similar difficulties in the future, taxpayers should follow these steps:
- Store the IP PIN securely – Keep a record in a secure location to access it when needed.
- Update IRS records – Ensure that the IRS has the correct address to receive the annual CP01A notice.
- Sign up for IRS online access – This allows quick retrieval and secure storage of important tax details, including the IP PIN.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if I am ineligible for the IP PIN online retrieval tool?
If a taxpayer cannot use the online tool due to identity verification issues, they should request a replacement PIN by calling the IRS at 800-908-4490.
How long does it take to receive a replacement IP PIN by mail?
Once the IRS verifies a taxpayer’s identity, the replacement IP PIN is typically mailed within 21 days.
Can I use last year’s IP PIN for this year’s tax return?
No. The IRS issues a new IP PIN each year to enhance security, so the previous year’s number will not be valid.
What should I do if I suspect identity theft?
If a taxpayer believes they are a victim of identity theft, they should contact the IRS and complete Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, as soon as possible.
Does every taxpayer need an IP PIN?
No. The IRS only assigns IP PINs to taxpayers who have experienced identity theft or are part of its IP PIN Opt-In program.
Recovering a lost IP PIN is essential for taxpayers at risk of identity theft. By following these steps, they can ensure that their tax return is processed without unnecessary delays or complications.
