WASHINGTON — As the 2025 tax filing season approaches, the IRS encourages all taxpayers to take an important step toward safeguarding their identity by registering for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN).
This simple but crucial step can provide an additional layer of security, helping to protect against tax-related identity theft.
The IRS encourages taxpayers to register for a IRS Online Account, which provides a quick and easy way to obtain an IP PIN. Early registration will ensure that taxpayers have additional security by having an IP PIN to electronically file their returns when the filing season begins in 2025.
The IRS encourages individuals to register for an IP PIN by November 23, 2024. After this date, the system will undergo maintenance and will not be available until early January 2025. Registering now for an IP PIN will ensure that a taxpayer's identity is protected when the tax filing season begins. New IP PINs for the 2025 filing season are generated during this period, so online registrants should retrieve their new IP PIN by early January 2025.
An IP PIN is a six-digit number that prevents anyone else from filing a federal tax return using a taxpayer's Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. It is a vital tool in ensuring the security of taxpayers' personal and financial information. Known only to a person and the IRS, the IP PIN confirms their identity when they e-file their tax return, making it much more difficult for thieves to fraudulently use their information.
How to request an IP PIN
The best way to sign up for an IP PIN is through IRS Online AccountThe process requires identity verification, and spouses and dependents can also obtain an IP PIN if they complete the required verification steps. Once an IP PIN is issued, it must be on both electronic and paper returns.
To obtain an IP PIN, taxpayers must create or log into their online account at IRS.gov and follow the steps to verify their identity. Once verified, taxpayers must click on the profile tab to request their IP PIN. IP PIN users must use this number when filing their federal tax returns for the current calendar year and any prior years filed during that same period.
For those who are unable to create an account online, there are alternative methods available, such as in-person authentication at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. More information on how to register is available at Get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN).
Additional information about IP PINs
- An IP PIN is valid for one calendar year. For security reasons, new IP PINs are generated at the beginning of each calendar year. Some participants will receive their IP PIN by mail, while others will need to log in to their online account to view their current IP PIN.
- Enrolled taxpayers can log back into their online account to view their current IP PIN.
- Taxpayers with an IP PIN must use it when filing any federal tax return during the year, including prior year tax returns or amended returns.
- IP PIN users must share their number only with the IRS and their tax preparation provider. The IRS will never call, email, or text a request for an IP PIN.
- Taxpayers can get an IP PIN now for 2024. The IRS will issue new IP PINs beginning in January 2025.
Source: IRS encourages all taxpayers to sign up for IP PIN for 2025 tax season