Blog # 4

On Tuesday, Jan. 14, the get an IP PIN tool became available at the IRS.gov/IPPIN for taxpayers. Access began for taxpayers who need to retrieve a lost/missing

IP PIN or certain taxpayers who want to voluntarily enter the IP PIN opt-in program.

The IP PIN is a six-digit number assigned to help prevent the misuse of taxpayers Social Security number on fraudulent federal income tax returns

An IP PIN helps the IRS verify a taxpayer’s identity and accept their electronic or paper tax returns. It prevents an identity thief from filing a tax return with a stolen SSN.

Taxpayers who are confirmed victims of identity theft will receive in the mail a

CP01A Notice with their IP PIN. If they do not receive the notice in time or lose the notice, they can use the Get an IP PIN tool to retrieve their IP PIN.

Taxpayers opting into the program must use the online tool to get an IP PIN.

Taxpayers who want an IP PIN can go to www.irs.gov/ippin to access the Get an IP PIN tool. Taxpayers must register an account through the IRS.

Identity verification items are required as follows:

Email address
Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)
Tax filing status and mailing address
One financial account number linked to your name

Example:

Credit card- last eight digits (no AMEX, debit or corporate cards)

Student loan

Mortgage or home equity loan; home equity line of credit

Auto loan

Mobile phone linked to your name (for faster registration) or ability to receive an activation code by mail

IMPORTANT: The IRS will never email, text or call you to request your IP PIN.

Do not reveal your IP PIN to anyone but trusted tax software provider or tax preparer. Neither your provider nor preparer will ask for your IP PIN except to complete your tax return