Protecting your identity in this ever-changing world is on the minds of millions of Americans. In November 2020, we introduced you to the Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN). The IP PIN is available to all taxpayers to protect them from someone filing a fraudulent tax return using their social security number. The IRS has provided additional information about the IP PIN and now has alternatives for taxpayers without online access.
The easiest way to obtain an IP PIN is to use the online tool discussed in our November 2020 blog. This tool can also be used to retrieve your number if you lost the notice from the IRS about your IP PIN.
Taxpayers can file Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number if they are unable to validate their identity online and have an income of $72,000 or less. On the form, you will provide your name, current mailing address, social security number (or taxpayer identification number), and a telephone number where you may be contacted. The IRS will call the telephone number to validate your identity. The IRS will then assign an IP PIN for the next filing season. Note that an IP PIN obtained this way cannot be used for the current tax filing season.
Taxpayers who are unable to verify their identity online and are not eligible to file Form 15227 can make an appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. To obtain a PIN in this manner, you will need to take one piece of current government-issued photo identification and another identification document to prove your identity.
Additional information about the IP PIN:
- Your tax professional is not allowed to obtain an IP PIN for you.
- The IP PIN must be entered on your tax return along with your social security number.
- The IP PIN is valid for one calendar year.
- The IRS will send you a new IP PIN each year.
- Spouses and dependents are eligible for IP PINs if they can verify their identities.
- IP PIN users should only give their number to their trusted tax preparation provider so it can be entered on their tax return.
- The IRS will never call, email, or text the taxpayer asking for the IP PIN.
Obtaining an IP PIN will help you protect your identity in 2021 and moving forward. Have more questions about an IP PIN or any other financial issues? Our talented team at Crystal Financial is here to help! Reach out today.
Judith Ackland has more than 26 years of experience in accountancy and financial planning, including seventeen years as a CFO of a diverse business. She started Crystal Financial in 2010 to help a wide array of individuals, families, and business owners better understand their finances and how good financial management could help them achieve their goals. Judith has an MA in Professional Accountancy from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln as well as a Certified Public Accountant Certificate and a Certified Financial Planner designation.
