We encourage all taxpayers to obtain an IRS IP PIN. With identity theft occurring more frequently, use the Internal Revenue Service IP PIN service to get an identity theft PIN to protect yourself. With an IRS IP PIN, you can protect yourself from fraudulent use of your Social Security number on a tax return filed with the IRS or New York State Tax Department.
The IP PIN is a six-digit number that you obtain after you have applied for an PIN number through your IRS online account. It helps prevent misuse of your SSN on a fraudulently filed tax return. You must enter your IP PIN on your federal income tax before it can be e-filed.
It’s easy for identity thieves to commit refund fraud using someone else’s name and Social Security number, especially if that person does not file a tax return. Every person on income tax return should attempt to get a PIN number, but it’s likely much more difficult for tax dependents since they tend to be children and for them it is hard to get their identities verified.
Here is a list of frequently asked questions related to the program: Frequently Asked Questions about the Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)
Details about the program:
- The PIN is valid for 1 year
- Each year a new PIN is generated
The 2021 Get IP PIN at the IRS is scheduled to launch January 10, 2022. The Pin is valid for one year. The website is Get An Identity Protection PIN | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)
