Protect Your Tax Identity: How to Obtain Your IRS IP PIN Before the Deadline

Protect Your Tax Identity: How to Obtain Your IRS IP PIN Before the Deadline

November 23, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor News

IRS Urges Taxpayers to Protect Their Identity with IP PIN

As the 2025 tax season approaches, the IRS reminds all U.S. citizens to take steps to protect their identity. The agency encourages taxpayers to register for the Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN). This simple process is crucial in preventing tax-related identity theft.

The IP PIN adds an extra layer of security. It ensures no one else can file a tax return in your name without your consent.

Why Register for an Online IRS Account by November 23, 2024?

The IRS advises everyone to enroll in their Online Account to quickly obtain an IP PIN. This six-digit number is vital for safeguarding your identity when filing taxes electronically. It stops others from using your personal information to file false returns.

To make sure your IP PIN is active for the 2025 tax season, register before November 23, 2024. After this date, the IRS system will undergo maintenance and will not be accessible until early January 2025. By signing up early, you’ll receive your new IP PIN at the start of the year, making sure your identity stays protected during tax filing.

This easy process is a key preventive measure against tax identity theft, keeping your personal and financial information safe. The IRS also reminds taxpayers that each year a new IP PIN is issued, so remember to retrieve yours in January for secure filing.

How to Obtain and Use Your IP PIN

The safest and fastest way to get an IP PIN is through the IRS Online Account. This process includes identity verification to ensure only you can access your PIN. Both spouses and dependents can request their own IP PIN if they meet the verification requirements.

Here’s how to get your IP PIN:

  1. Access or Create Your IRS Online Account: Log in or set up your account at IRS.gov, and follow the instructions to verify your identity. After verification, you can request your IP PIN from your profile tab.

  2. New IP PINs Every Year: IP PINs are only valid for the current calendar year. Every January, the IRS generates new IP PINs. Some taxpayers will receive their IP PIN by mail, while others need to log in to get it.

  3. Using Your IP PIN: You must include your IP PIN on all electronic and paper tax returns. This number is necessary for all federal tax returns filed during the current year or earlier returns submitted in the same tax year.

  4. Additional Security: Never share your IP PIN with anyone except the IRS or your tax preparer. The IRS will never ask for your IP PIN via phone, email, or text.

  5. Alternative Methods: If you cannot create an online account, you can verify your identity in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.

Safeguarding your tax identity is now easier. With an IP PIN, you can file your taxes confidently, knowing your information is secure.