A lost IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) can throw a wrench in your tax filing plans. Since this six-digit code is required to e-file your return, not having it means either tracking it down or facing delays. The good news? The IRS provides several ways to recover or work around a missing PIN—if you know which path fits your situation.
While we can't control IRS processing times or system availability, we can help you navigate the system efficiently. Time to track down that PIN and file!
What is an IRS Identity Protection PIN and why does it matter?
Your IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a 6-digit code that serves one critical purpose: preventing someone else from filing a tax return under your name. Here's what every taxpayer should know:
Why It's Essential
- Required for e-filing: No PIN = rejected return
- Changes every January: Last year's code won't work
- Non-negotiable: Once enrolled, you must use it annually
How It Protects You
Even if a scammer has your Social Security Number, they can't file a fraudulent return without your current IP PIN. The IRS automatically flags any submission missing this code.
The Fraud Reality
The IRS battles millions of suspicious filings yearly, with identity theft consistently ranking as a top fraud method. Your IP PIN is their most effective solution to:
- Prevent fraudulent refund claims
- Avoid 6+ month processing delays if your identity is stolen
- Skip the paperwork nightmare of proving your identity later
Can I use last year’s PIN?
The IRS refreshes IP PINs every January as part of their security protocol. This means last year's code expires automatically, requiring you to use the new 6-digit number issued for the current tax year. While it might seem inconvenient, this annual rotation serves an important purpose - it ensures your protection stays current even if previous PINs were ever compromised.
You'll typically receive your new PIN in one of two ways. Most taxpayers get an official IRS Notice CP01A mailed to their registered address in early January. This notice stands out from regular IRS correspondence, so it's worth keeping an eye out for it. Alternatively, you can access your PIN immediately through your IRS online account, which is particularly useful if mail delivery is delayed or you need to file early.
Remember: If you lose your PIN, you'll need to recover it before filing. There's no opting out once enrolled.
How can I get my IP PIN reissued online?
When you need your current IP PIN quickly, the IRS online portal provides the fastest solution. Here's how to navigate the process smoothly:
First, visit the official IRS IP PIN tool at irs.gov/ippin. This is the only website that can legitimately provide your IP PIN - beware of third-party imposters.
If you haven't already, you'll need to create an IRS online account. This one-time setup requires:
- A government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- A smartphone or webcam to take a selfie for matching
- Personal details to verify your identity
Once logged in, the system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering questions about your tax history, like your prior-year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) or recent loan amounts. These come from your official IRS records, so have your past tax returns handy.
After successful verification, your current IP PIN will appear on-screen. This is your only chance to save it during this session, so:
- Write it down in a secure location (like a password manager or locked filing cabinet)
- Or use the built-in print function to create a physical copy
Remember, the IRS will never email, text, or call you with your IP PIN. If you miss saving it during this session, you'll need to use alternative recovery methods.
What are my options if I can’t access my IP PIN online?
If you're unable to retrieve your IP PIN online due to identity verification issues or technical difficulties, the IRS provides several alternatives to help you secure your IP PIN or file your tax return safely. Here are your options:
Retrieve Your IP PIN by Phone
You can obtain your IP PIN by calling the IRS Identity Verification Service:
- Phone Number: 800-908-4490 (available Monday–Friday, 7 AM–7 PM local time)
- Your full Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)
- The mailing address from your most recent tax return
- Details from your prior-year tax return, such as your adjusted gross income (AGI)
If your identity is successfully verified over the phone, the IRS will mail your IP PIN to your registered address within 21 days.
Use Paper Filing Without an IP PIN
If you are close to the tax filing deadline and cannot retrieve your IP PIN in time, you can still file your tax return by paper without the IP PIN:
- Complete your tax forms as usual without the IP PIN.
- Attach a signed statement to your return explaining that you were unable to obtain an IP PIN and include any attempts made to secure it. (Note: Do not write “IP PIN LOST" on the top of the Form 1040. This instruction is outdated)
- Mail your tax return along with all required documentation (such as W-2s and 1099s) to the appropriate IRS address for your state.
| ⚠️ Note: The processing of paper returns without an IP PIN may take longer, as the IRS will need to take additional steps to verify your identity. |
Visit a Local IRS Office
For in-person assistance, you can schedule an appointment at your local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC).
What to Bring:
- Two forms of government identification (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- A copy of your most recent tax return
- Any IRS notices or previous correspondence regarding your IP PIN
| 💡 Call ahead to confirm the required documents and check if the TAC can issue an IP PIN directly or assist you with the retrieval process. |
The bottom line
A missing IP PIN may slow you down, but it doesn’t have to stop your tax filing in its tracks. The IRS provides clear recovery paths—whether through instant online access, mailed replacements, or direct assistance for urgent cases. With the right approach, most taxpayers can resolve this hurdle quickly and get back to their filing process.
For those managing tight deadlines or complex situations like identity theft, specialized help can make all the difference. At DiMercurio Advisors, we handle IP PIN recovery daily, cutting through IRS red tape so you can file accurately and on time. Let us turn this stumbling block into a minor detour.
Schedule a consultation today to secure your PIN—and your peace of mind—before the deadline.
