Do You Always Need an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to File Taxes?

Learn when you need an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to protect your tax return and how to obtain one for added security.

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You do not always need an IRS PIN to file your taxes, but it is highly recommended for added security. An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number assigned by the IRS to help prevent the misuse of your Social Security number on fraudulent federal income tax returns. If you can verify your identity with the IRS, you may opt-in to get an IP PIN. For those who have been victims of identity theft, the IRS will automatically issue one.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)? An IRS IP PIN is a six-digit number assigned by the IRS to help prevent identity theft and protect taxpayers from fraudulent tax returns using their Social Security number.
  2. Do I have to use an IRS PIN every time I file my taxes? No, you do not always need an IRS PIN to file taxes, but it is highly recommended to enhance your tax return security, especially if you have been a victim of identity theft.
  3. How can I get an IRS IP PIN? You can obtain an IRS IP PIN by verifying your identity with the IRS through their online tool or by following instructions if you have been a victim of identity theft.

Watch More

For more information on protecting your tax identity and avoiding fraud, explore our related videos on IRS tax filing security, steps to recover from identity theft, and how to verify your IRS identity.

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  3. Is the Efile PIN the Same as the IRS IP PIN? Key Differences Explained Learn the key differences between the Efile PIN and IRS IP PIN, their purposes, and why the Efile PIN is now obsolete.