The Internal Revenue Service has expanded its identity theft protection measures for the 2025 filing season, focusing on the Identity Protection PIN program. The initiative allows eligible taxpayers to get an IP PIN online, adding a six-digit code that helps prevent criminals from filing fraudulent federal tax returns.
The Identity Protection PIN, or IP PIN, is a six-digit number issued annually by the IRS to strengthen safeguards against identity theft. Taxpayers enrolling in the IP PIN program must use the code when filing any federal tax returns, including prior-year ones. Without it, the IRS will automatically reject an e-filed return, preventing misuse of a Social Security number.
A new IP PIN is generated yearly and is valid for one filing season only. After verifying their identity, taxpayers can obtain their current IP PIN online through IRS.gov. For those unable to confirm their identity online, alternatives include submitting Form 15227 by mail or applying at a Taxpayer Assistance Center.
The IP PIN is linked directly to a taxpayer’s account, meaning it must be entered with every return filed during the year. This extra layer of identity protection has become one of the agency’s most effective tools for stopping fraud before refunds are issued.
Taxpayers can get an IP PIN online by visiting the official IRS website and using the Get an IP PIN tool. To access the system, taxpayers must create or log in to an IRS online account and complete identity verification. Once confirmed, a new IP PIN is generated and displayed. The number is valid for one year and must be included when filing any federal tax returns, including prior-year returns.
For those unable to verify their identity online, the IRS provides additional ways to obtain an IP PIN. Eligible taxpayers with income below certain thresholds can file Form 15227 by mail. Others may schedule an appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center, where IRS staff will confirm their information and issue an IP PIN for the current filing season.
A new IP PIN must be requested before filing each year. Taxpayers should confirm their current code through their online account or IRS correspondence. If an IP PIN is lost, a replacement can be obtained by returning to the online system or contacting the IRS directly.
Tax-related identity theft remains a significant problem for the IRS and taxpayers alike. Criminals use stolen Social Security numbers to file fraudulent tax returns, often claiming refunds before the legitimate taxpayer has a chance to file. This misuse creates delays, financial stress, and extra steps for victims to confirm their identity and recover lost funds.
The IRS has expanded the IP PIN program as part of its broader identity protection strategy. By requiring a six-digit number that only the taxpayer and IRS know, the agency can reject returns that attempt to use incorrect or stolen information. This prevents fraudulent e-filed returns from being processed and helps protect refunds.
In addition to security tools, the IRS partners with state agencies and the tax industry through the Security Summit. Campaigns such as National Tax Security Awareness Week highlight the importance of strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and caution against phishing attempts. The IRS reminds taxpayers that it will never request personal information by email, text, or social media, a detail that helps individuals recognize scams before they fall victim.
Taxpayers are encouraged to get an IP PIN before submitting their 2025 federal tax returns. Those already enrolled should confirm their IP PIN and ensure it is used on every return filed during the year, including prior-year returns.
The IRS warns that it will never contact taxpayers by email, text, or social media to request sensitive information. Individuals should be cautious of phishing attempts that misuse IRS branding or references to the IP PIN program to steal personal data.
Taxpayers can find more information and secure access to tools through official IRS pages, including:
These resources provide step-by-step instructions for obtaining or renewing an IP PIN, filing Form 15227 if necessary, and learning how to prevent identity theft.
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