How to Get an IP PIN From the IRS

What an IP PIN is and why the IRS issues it

An IP PIN (Identity Protection Personal Identification Number) is a six-digit code the IRS issues to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return in your name. It works like a password for your tax account — when you file, you enter the PIN alongside your Social Security number, and the IRS checks that both match before accepting your return. Without the correct PIN, a fraudster cannot file a return under your identity, even if they have your Social Security number and other personal details.

The IRS does not require every taxpayer to have an IP PIN. You get one only if you request it, or if the IRS detects that your identity has already been compromised — for instance, if someone filed a fraudulent return using your number, or if your information was exposed in a data breach. Once you have an IP PIN, you must use it every year you file, or the IRS will reject your return as incomplete.

The PIN is tied to your Social Security number and the tax year. Each year you need a new one. If you lose it or forget it, you can retrieve it or request a replacement through the same channels you used to get the original.

Key Takeaways

You can request an IP PIN from the IRS through their online tool at irs.gov/ippin, by phone at 1-800-908-4490, or by mail using Form 14039.
The online tool is the fastest method and gives you the PIN when ready if you pass identity verification; phone and mail requests take longer.
To use the online tool, you need a Social Security number, date of birth, filing status from your most recent return, and a valid mailing address on file with the IRS.
If you cannot verify your identity online or by phone, you can request the PIN by mail, but the process takes several weeks.
Once you receive an IP PIN, you must enter it on your tax return every year, or the IRS will reject the return.

Getting an IP PIN online through the IRS website

The fastest way to get an IP PIN is through the IRS's online tool at irs.gov/ippin. You do not need to create an account or log in to an existing one. You straightforward go to the page, answer identity verification questions, and if you pass, the IRS displays your six-digit PIN on the screen when ready. You can write it down, screenshot it, or print it.

To use the tool, you need to have filed a tax return with the IRS in the past, because the system asks questions based on information from your most recent return — your filing status, the number of dependents you claimed, or the amount of a refund you received. If you have never filed a federal return, you cannot use this tool and must call or mail your request instead.

The tool is available year-round, but the IRS typically opens it for new PIN requests starting in late May or early June each year, ahead of the main tax filing season. If you try to access it outside that window and you do not already have a PIN on file, you will see a message saying the tool is not currently available. In that case, you can call or mail your request.

Requesting an IP PIN by phone

You can call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 to request an IP PIN. This line is staffed during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready when you call.

The IRS representative will ask you identity verification questions similar to those on the online tool — questions about your past returns, your address history, or other details only you would know. If you pass verification, the representative will give you your IP PIN over the phone. Write it down when ready, because they will not repeat it or email it to you.

Wait times on this line are often long, especially during tax season (January through April). If you reach a busy signal or are put on hold for more than 30 minutes, you can hang up and try again later, or use the online tool or mail option instead.

Requesting an IP PIN by mail using Form 14039

If you cannot verify your identity online or by phone, or if the online tool is not available, you can request an IP PIN by mail. read Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) from irs.gov, fill it out, and mail it to the address shown on the form. The address depends on which IRS service center handles your state.

Include a copy of a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license or passport) and a proof of your current address (such as a recent utility bill or lease). The IRS uses these documents to verify your identity. Do not send originals — send copies only.

Processing time for mail requests is typically four to six weeks, sometimes longer during peak tax season. The IRS will mail your IP PIN to the address on file with them. If you need the PIN before tax season ends and you are running out of time to file, this method is not ideal — call or use the online tool instead.

What to do if you have already been a victim of identity theft

If someone has already filed a fraudulent tax return using your Social Security number, the IRS will typically issue you an IP PIN automatically and notify you by mail. You do not need to request one. The letter will include your PIN and instructions on how to use it when you file your own return.

If you suspect fraud but have not yet received a PIN from the IRS, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov. This creates an official record and may trigger the IRS to issue you a PIN. You can also call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 and tell them you believe your identity has been compromised; they can flag your account and issue a PIN.

Keep the letter from the IRS that includes your PIN in a safe place. You will need to reference it when you file your return each year, and if you lose it, you can retrieve the PIN by calling the IRS or using the online tool again.

Using your IP PIN when you file your tax return

When you file your return — whether you file on paper or electronically — you must enter your IP PIN in the space provided. If you file electronically using tax software or a tax professional, the software will have a field for the IP PIN. If you file on paper, the PIN goes on the line marked "IP PIN" on your Form 1040 or the appropriate return form for your situation.

If you forget to enter the PIN and submit your return without it, the IRS will reject the return as incomplete. You will receive a notice in the mail telling you to resubmit the return with the PIN included. This delays processing and any refund you are owed. If you have lost your PIN, retrieve it using the online tool or call the IRS before you resubmit.

You need a new IP PIN every tax year. The IRS does not carry over your PIN from one year to the next. Starting in late May or early June each year, you can request a new PIN using the same methods — online, by phone, or by mail.

What happens if you lose or forget your IP PIN

If you have misplaced your IP PIN and need it to file your return, you can retrieve it using the same online tool at irs.gov/ippin, or by calling 1-800-908-4490. You do not need to request a new one — you are straightforward retrieving the one the IRS already issued to you. The online tool will display it when ready; the phone line will give it to you during the call.

If you cannot remember whether you requested a PIN in the first place, you can check by using the online tool or calling the IRS. If you do have a PIN on file and you file your return without entering it, the IRS will reject the return. At that point, you will need to retrieve the PIN and resubmit.

If you are filing your return and realize you do not have a PIN but you believe you should, contact the IRS before you file. It is faster to get the PIN first than to file, have the return rejected, and then resubmit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else request an IP PIN using my Social Security number?

No. The IRS verifies your identity before issuing a PIN — either by asking questions only you would know the answers to, or by checking information from your past tax returns. A fraudster would need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and answers to personal questions to get a PIN in your name. If you suspect someone has done this, contact the IRS when ready at 1-800-908-4490.

Do I need an IP PIN if I have not filed taxes before?

You can request one, but the online tool will not work because it requires information from a past return. Call 1-800-908-4490 or mail Form 14039 instead. If you have never filed, the IRS may ask additional questions to verify your identity before issuing the PIN.

What if I file my return and the IRS says my IP PIN is wrong?

This usually means you entered it incorrectly, or the PIN you have is from a previous year. Retrieve your current-year PIN using the online tool or by calling 1-800-908-4490, then resubmit your return with the correct PIN. Make sure you are using the PIN for the tax year you are filing, not a PIN from last year.

Does getting an IP PIN cost money?

No. The IRS issues IP PINs for free. Do not pay anyone to request one for you. If a website or service charges a fee to get an IP PIN, it is a scam.

Can I use the same IP PIN for multiple years?

No. Each year you need a new IP PIN. The IRS issues a different six-digit code for each tax year. Starting in late May or early June, you can request your new PIN for the upcoming year using the online tool, phone, or mail.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.