Identity theft is on the rise. Learn one major way to protect yourself.
Identity Protection Pin:
Identity Protection PINs stop identity thieves from filing fraudulent tax returns. When you go through the process the IRS assigns you a six-digit number which you use to prove your identity when you file your tax return. This is an extra layer of protection. Nothing is 100% but it certainly helps.
How to get an IP PIN:
Use the Get An IP PIN tool. All you need to do is to verify your identity with your SSN or ITIN.
Taxpayers should review the Secure Access requirements before they try to use the Get An IP PIN tool.
Even if someone has already filed a fraudulent tax return, an IP PIN would prevent the taxpayer from being a repeat victim of tax-related identity theft in the future.
Important information about IP PINs:
For security reasons, enrolled participants get a new IP PIN each year. That IP PIN is valid for one year.
Enrolled taxpayers can log back into the Get An IP PIN tool to see their current IP PIN.
People with an IP PIN must use it when filing any federal tax returns during the year, including prior year tax returns.
IP PIN users should only share their number with the IRS and their trusted tax preparation provider. The IRS will never call, email or text a request for the IP PIN.
Currently, taxpayers can get an IP PIN for 2022. The IRS will issue new IP PINs starting in January 2023.
What if I can't validate my identity online?
That's okay!
Taxpayers who can’t validate their identity online AND whose income is below a certain threshold, can file Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number. The 2022 threshold is $73,000 for individuals or $146,000 for married filing jointly.
Once an IRS receives the form, a representative will call the phone number the taxpayer provided to validate the taxpayer's identity. However, for security reasons, the IRS will assign an IP PIN for the next filing season, and the taxpayer can’t use the IP PIN for the current filing season.
Taxpayers who can’t validate their identity online or by phone, and who are ineligible to file a Form 15227 can make an appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. They will need to bring one current government-issued picture ID and another identification document to prove their identity. Once verified, the taxpayer will get an IP PIN in the mail, usually within three weeks.
More Information:
Publication 5367 EN-SP, IP PIN Opt-In Program for Taxpayers Publication 4557, Safeguarding Taxpayer Data Publication 5293, Data Security Resource Guide for Tax Professionals Identity Theft Central
This information is provided by the IRS.
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