What an IRS Identity PIN is and why you might need one

An IRS Identity PIN is a six-digit number the IRS assigns to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return in your name. If you have been a victim of tax-related identity theft, or if the IRS suspects your account has been compromised, they may require you to use a PIN when you file. The PIN replaces your Social Security number as the way you prove who you are on your return.

You do not request a PIN under normal circumstances. The IRS sends you one only if they have detected fraudulent activity on your account or if you have previously reported identity theft to them. If you receive a letter from the IRS saying you need a PIN, that letter will tell you how to retrieve it. If you have not received such a letter, you do not have an IRS PIN and do not need one.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS assigns an Identity PIN only after detecting tax fraud or identity theft on your account — you cannot request one on your own.
  • If the IRS has assigned you a PIN, they will mail you a letter explaining it and telling you how to retrieve the number.
  • You retrieve your PIN through the IRS's online portal, by calling the IRS directly, or by visiting a local IRS office in person.
  • Once you have your PIN, you must enter it on your tax return in the space marked for it, or your return will be rejected.

How to know if the IRS has assigned you a PIN

The IRS will contact you by mail if they have assigned you an Identity PIN. The letter will come from the IRS Criminal Investigation division or the IRS Taxpayer Protection Program. Read the letter carefully — it will explain why the PIN was issued and what you need to do next.

If you believe you are a victim of identity theft but have not received a letter, you can report it to the IRS directly. You can file Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, with your tax return, or you can call the IRS Identity Theft Hotline at 1-800-908-4490. The IRS will then investigate and may assign you a PIN as part of their response.

Do not assume you need a PIN just because you are worried about fraud. Only act if you have received a letter from the IRS or if you have confirmed with the IRS that your account has been flagged.

Retrieving your PIN online through the IRS portal

If the IRS has assigned you a PIN, the fastest way to retrieve it is through the IRS's online account portal. Go to irs.gov and look for the "View Your Tax Account" option. You will need to create or log into an IRS online account using your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and the ZIP code from your most recent tax return.

Once you are logged in, look for a section labeled "Identity PIN" or "Tax Return Information." Your six-digit PIN will be displayed there. Write it down and keep it in a safe place — you will need it when you file your return. The PIN is valid for one tax year only, so if you file again the following year, you will need to retrieve a new PIN using the same process.

If you cannot log into your IRS account or do not see your PIN displayed, move to the phone or in-person method described below.

Getting your PIN by phone

You can call the IRS directly to retrieve your Identity PIN. The main IRS phone line is 1-800-829-1040. When you call, have your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and a copy of your most recent tax return ready. The IRS representative will verify your identity and then provide your PIN over the phone.

Wait times can be long, especially during tax season (January through April). If you reach a representative, they will read your PIN to you — ask them to repeat it so you have it correct. Some representatives will also mail the PIN to you if you prefer not to write it down over the phone.

If you call and cannot reach anyone, try calling early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when call volume is typically lower.

Getting your PIN in person at an IRS office

You can also visit a local IRS office to retrieve your PIN. Find the nearest office by going to irs.gov and searching for "IRS Office Locator." You will need to bring a photo ID and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, a birth certificate, or a passport will work).

Walk-in appointments are not always available, so call ahead or schedule an appointment online before you go. The IRS office will verify your identity and provide your PIN on the spot. This method takes longer than calling or using the online portal, but it may be your best option if you are uncomfortable sharing information over the phone or if you have had trouble reaching the IRS by other means.

What to do once you have your PIN

Once you have retrieved your six-digit PIN, keep it somewhere safe and accessible when you file your tax return. When you file — whether you use tax software, a tax professional, or paper forms — you will be asked to enter your PIN in a specific field on your return. The exact location depends on which form you use, but it is always clearly labeled.

If you file electronically, your tax software will prompt you for the PIN and will not let you submit your return without it. If you file on paper, write the PIN in the space provided on the form. If you forget your PIN or lose it, you can retrieve it again using any of the three methods above.

Do not share your PIN with anyone, including a tax preparer, unless you are certain they are legitimate and you trust them completely. Your PIN is as sensitive as your Social Security number.

What happens if you file without your PIN when you need one

If the IRS has assigned you a PIN and you attempt to file your return without it, your return will be rejected. This happens whether you file electronically or on paper. If you file electronically and forget the PIN, the software will catch the error before you submit and will ask you to enter it.

If you file on paper without the PIN, the IRS will reject the return when they process it. They will send you a letter explaining that your return was rejected and instructing you to resubmit it with the PIN included. This delays your refund and can create confusion, so retrieve your PIN before you file.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request an IRS Identity PIN if I have not been a victim of fraud?

No. The IRS only assigns Identity PINs to people whose accounts show signs of fraud or identity theft. You cannot request one on your own. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can take preventive steps like monitoring your credit report and placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus, but the IRS will not issue you a PIN unless they have detected a problem.

How long does an IRS Identity PIN last?

An Identity PIN is valid for one tax year only. When you file your next return, you will need to retrieve a new PIN using the same method. The IRS will continue to assign you a new PIN each year as long as your account remains flagged for fraud protection.

What if I lose my PIN before I file?

You can retrieve it again at any time using the online portal, by phone, or in person at an IRS office. There is no limit to how many times you can look up your PIN. Just make sure you have it before you submit your return, because the IRS will reject any return filed without it if a PIN is required for your account.

Can a tax preparer file my return if I do not have my PIN?

No. If the IRS has assigned you a PIN, your tax preparer will need the PIN to file your return on your behalf. You must retrieve it yourself and provide it to them. Do not give your preparer your Social Security number and ask them to retrieve it — you should always retrieve your own PIN directly from the IRS.

Will I need an IRS Identity PIN forever?

Not necessarily. The IRS will continue to assign you a new PIN each year as long as your account is flagged for fraud protection. After several years with no further fraud detected, the IRS may remove the flag and stop requiring a PIN. You will receive a letter if this happens.