Safeguarding Your Identity: Understanding the IRS Identity Protection PIN
A blog post by Cyber Search.
What is an Identity Protection PIN?
In a world where data breaches and identity theft are increasingly common, protecting your sensitive information is more important than ever. The IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers to help prevent the misuse of their Social Security number on fraudulent federal income tax returns. An IP PIN helps the IRS verify a taxpayer's identity, ensuring that their tax records are secure and that legitimate returns are processed efficiently and without unnecessary delay due to concerns about identity fraud.
Who is Eligible for an IP PIN?
Originally, the IP PIN was only available to victims of identity theft with cases resolved by the IRS, or to individuals who had received an invitation from the IRS. However, as part of efforts to combat tax-related identity theft, the program has been expanded, and as of 2021, the IP PIN opt-in program is available to anyone who can properly verify their identity. If you are concerned about identity theft or simply wish to add an extra layer of security to your tax filings, you may consider obtaining an IP PIN from the IRS.
How to Obtain Your IRS IP PIN
Getting an IP PIN is a relatively straightforward process. To get started, you should go to the IRS's official website and use the 'Get an IP PIN' tool. You'll need to pass a rigorous identity verification process, which may require you to have immediate access to your email account, a personal account number from a credit card, mortgage, home equity loan, home equity line of credit, or car loan, and a mobile phone registered in your name. Once verified, the IRS will provide you with your IP PIN, which you'll need to keep secure and use when you file your federal tax return.
The Importance of Keeping Your IP PIN Secure
Remember, your IP PIN is a unique number that provides an additional layer of protection against tax-related identity theft. As such, it is crucial to keep your IP PIN confidential and not to share it with anyone except your trusted tax professional. The IRS will never call, text, or email you to ask for your IP PIN, so beware of scams attempting to obtain sensitive information. If your IP PIN is lost or stolen, or you suspect it has been used fraudulently, you should contact the IRS immediately to resolve the issue and secure your tax account.