IRS Creates Identity Protection PIN Opt-In Program for Taxpayers
The IRS has created Publication 5367, IP PIN Opt-In Program for Taxpayers. If you have concerns about identity fraud, consider utilizing this program.
Following are additional details about the IP PIN:
it is a six-digit number known only to the taxpayer and the IRS;
the opt-in program is voluntary;
the IP PIN should be entered onto the electronic tax return when prompted by the software product or onto a paper return next to the signature line;
the IP PIN is valid for one calendar year; taxpayers must obtain a new IP PIN each year;
only dependents who can verify their identities may obtain an IP PIN; and
IP PIN users should never share their number with anyone but the IRS and their trusted tax preparation provider.
Moreover, taxpayers may obtain an IP PIN through Get an IP PIN, the IRS online tool. Taxpayers must validate their identities through Secure Access authentication to access the tool and their IP PIN. Before attempting this rigorous process, taxpayers must see Secure Access: How to Register for Certain Online Self-Help Tools. However, the tool will be offline between November and January. Further, if taxpayers are unable to validate their identity online and their income is $72,000 or less, they may file Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number. The IRS will call the telephone number provided on Form 15227 to validate your identity. However, for security reasons, the IRS will assign an IP PIN for the next filing season. The IP PIN cannot be used for the current filing season.
Taxpayers who cannot validate their identities online, or on the phone with an IRS employee after submitting a Form 15227, or who are ineligible to file a Form 15227 may call the IRS to make an appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. They will need to bring one picture identification document and another identification document to prove their identity. Once verified, the taxpayer will receive an IP PIN via U.S. Postal Service within three weeks. Lastly, the IP PIN process for confirmed victims of identity theft would remain unchanged and they would automatically receive an IP PIN each year.
