The IRS IP Pin Program is Open

The IRS IP Pin Program is Open!

The IRS has expanded their pilot program that uses Identity Protection Personal Information Numbers (IP PINs) to provide an extra layer of security for all taxpayers.

Here is what you need to know about the IP PIN program:

• The IRS’s IP PIN program is an additional security layer to ensure your tax identity is not stolen. When you register in the program, the IRS will mail you a six-digit numeric IP PIN. You must enter this number on your tax return, or the return will be rejected. It is a one-time use IP PIN. In other words, you will receive a new number every year
• So why get an IP PIN? The IRS uses the IP PIN to better verify your identity. It can prevent crafty hackers from using your Social Security number to file fraudulent tax returns or access returns you’ve already filed.
  Remember, that if you choose to get an IP PIN, you’ll need to use an IP PIN for all future filings. While the IRS is planning to add the capability to opt-out of the program, it has not yet become available. That means once you are in the program, you must stay in it. If by chance you lose your IP PIN you can still paper file your tax return

How to get your IP PIN:

• You can use special IRS tools to obtain an IP PIN and verify your identity through a two-factor authentication process. Go to the Get an IP PIN page on the IRS website to get started.
• To get the IP PIN, you will need to register for an online account with the IRS. The process to open the account requires an independent ID verification before establishing the account. Once approved, you can then register for the program.

Note: Remember, a new IP PIN is generated for every filing season. It may be retrieved in mid-January by logging into your account. If you have experienced ID theft, the IRS automatically puts you into this program. The IRS will continue to issue new IP PINs to taxpayers who have already been victimized by tax-related identity theft. Once you are in the program, you must carefully protect this number. Do not tell it to anyone other than those who need the information to file a tax return. Also, know that the IRS will never ask you for this number, so do not give it out.

To find out more abut the program, viast the IRS website

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