Learn About IRS Identity PIN Protection Options
What Is an IRS Identity PIN and Why It Matters
An IRS Identity PIN is a six-digit number created by the Internal Revenue Service to help protect your tax account from identity theft and fraud. This PIN acts as a security layer between you and criminals who might try to file a false tax return using your Social Security number.
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Identity theft in the tax system has grown significantly over the past decade. According to the IRS, there were over 1 million reports of identity theft related to taxes filed in recent years. When a criminal uses your Social Security number to file a fraudulent tax return, it can create serious problems: delayed refunds, complications with your actual tax filing, and months of back-and-forth with the IRS to fix the situation.
The IRS Identity PIN works by requiring anyone who files a return using your Social Security number to enter the correct PIN. Without the PIN, the return will be rejected. Only you and the IRS should know this number. If you have the PIN, you enter it on your tax return. If a criminal tries to file using your number without the PIN, their return will be rejected immediately.
The IRS offers two main types of PIN protection: the IP PIN (Identity Protection PIN) for people who have already experienced identity theft, and the SOS PIN (Safeguard Option Service PIN) for those who want protection before theft occurs. Understanding these options helps you make decisions about how to protect your tax account.
Practical takeaway: An IRS Identity PIN is a security tool that prevents someone else from filing taxes in your name. Learning about these options helps you understand what protection looks like and whether it fits your situation.
IP PIN: Protection After Identity Theft Has Occurred
The IP PIN program is designed for people who have already been victims of tax-related identity theft. If someone has filed a fraudulent tax return using your name and Social Security number, or if you received a notice from the IRS saying someone tried to do so, you may be in a situation where an IP PIN would be useful.
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To obtain an IP PIN through this program, you must first report the identity theft to the IRS. You can do this by filing Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit. This form tells the IRS that your identity has been misused for tax purposes. You can file this form by mail or, in some cases, through the IRS website. Once the IRS processes your report and confirms the identity theft, they will create an IP PIN specifically for you.
The IP PIN is typically valid for one year. The IRS will send it to you by mail at the address on file with your tax records. You must enter this PIN when you file your tax return that year. The PIN ensures that only you can file using your Social Security number during that period.
In recent years, the IRS has expanded the IP PIN program. For example, in 2023, the agency began automatically assigning IP PINs to certain individuals in states where identity theft was particularly common, such as Maryland, Georgia, and Kentucky. This meant some taxpayers received an IP PIN in the mail whether or not they had reported theft themselves. The IRS has continued adjusting these programs based on patterns of fraud.
The process of resolving tax identity theft can take months. You may need to file an amended return, provide proof of your identity, and communicate with the IRS multiple times. An IP PIN prevents future returns from being filed in your name during this time, which stops the problem from getting worse while you work on resolution.
Practical takeaway: If you have experienced tax identity theft, an IP PIN prevents someone from using your Social Security number to file another fraudulent return while you resolve the original theft with the IRS.
SOS PIN: Proactive Protection Before Theft Happens
The Safeguard Option Service (SOS) PIN is a newer protection tool for people who want to prevent identity theft before it occurs. Unlike the IP PIN, which you get after theft has happened, the SOS PIN lets you choose protection in advance. This option is valuable for people who feel at risk—such as those who work in fields with data breaches, have had personal information exposed online, or simply want extra security.
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With the SOS PIN program, you request a PIN from the IRS before you file your taxes. The IRS creates a unique six-digit PIN and sends it to you by mail. When you file your tax return, you enter this PIN along with your other information. If someone tries to file a return using your Social Security number without the correct PIN, that return will be rejected.
One key difference between the SOS PIN and the IP PIN is that the SOS PIN is voluntary and you must request it. You are not automatically assigned one. This means you take action yourself to set up the protection. The SOS PIN is also designed as an ongoing option—you can renew it each year if you want continued protection, rather than having it expire after a set period.
The process for requesting an SOS PIN involves creating or logging into an account on the IRS website through their secure portal. You will need to verify your identity, usually by answering questions about your personal history or providing other identifying information. Once verified, you can request the PIN. The IRS will mail it to your address on file.
Many tax professionals recommend the SOS PIN for individuals in high-risk situations. For instance, if you work in healthcare, finance, government, or any field that handles sensitive data, your personal information might be at greater risk. Similarly, if you have been notified of a data breach affecting a company where you provided your Social Security number, an SOS PIN offers peace of mind.
Practical takeaway: The SOS PIN is a tool you can request yourself to prevent identity theft before it happens, making it useful for people who want extra security without waiting for an incident to occur.
How to Request and Manage Your Identity PIN
The process for requesting an IRS Identity PIN depends on which type you need and your specific situation. Understanding the steps involved helps you move through the process with fewer delays.
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For an IP PIN (after identity theft), you begin by filing Form 14039 with the IRS. You can mail this form to the IRS address for your region, or you can file it online through the IRS website if you have already created an account and verified your identity. The form asks for details about the identity theft, the year it occurred, and whether you filed a police report. Providing complete information speeds up processing. After you file Form 14039, the IRS will review your claim and send you an IP PIN by mail, usually within two to three weeks, though sometimes it takes longer.
For an SOS PIN (preventive protection), you log into or create an account on the IRS website at IRS.gov. You will navigate to the Identity Protection PIN section. The IRS will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history and personal records. This verification ensures that the person requesting the PIN is actually you. Once verified, you can request the PIN. The IRS will mail it to your address within about two weeks.
Once you receive your PIN, you must store it securely. Write it down and keep it in a safe place—not on a sticky note at your desk or in an easily accessible location. Some people store it in a password manager or a locked file. Do not share your PIN with anyone, including tax professionals, unless they are preparing your tax return and specifically need it.
When you file your tax return, you will enter the PIN in the designated field on the form. If you file electronically, the software will ask for it. If you file on paper, you write it in the space provided. Failing to enter the correct PIN will cause your return to be rejected, so double-check before submitting.
If you forget your PIN, you can request a new one from the IRS. If your PIN is lost, stolen, or compromised, contact the IRS immediately. If your SOS PIN expires and you want to continue protection the following year, you will need to request a new one before tax filing season.
Practical takeaway: Requesting an Identity PIN involves filing a form or using the IRS website, storing the PIN safely, and entering it correctly when you file your tax return. Planning ahead and keeping your PIN secure prevents delays and protects your account.
Understanding Limitations and What Identity PINs Do Not Cover
While Identity PINs are a useful security tool, it is important to understand what they do and do
This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.