How Do I Get My IRS Identity Protection Pin
Published on April 19, 2024
Updated on March 13, 2025
Reviewed by
Clark Stott has been with Expat Tax Online since 2015. Being a dual national based in the UK, Clark has unique experience helping US citizens (and Accidental Americans) become tax compliant via the Streamlined Tax Amnesty program. Clark likes to help Americans in the UK keep their tax situations as simple as possible to avoid harsh IRS treatment.
Table of Contents
How can I apply for and receive an IP PIN when I live outside the US?
An Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) is a six-digit code issued by the IRS to help protect taxpayers from identity theft.
If someone tries to file a fake tax return using your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), the IRS will reject it unless they enter your IP PIN.
How to apply for an IP PIN:
- Use the IRS online tool – The fastest way to get an IP PIN is through the IRS Get an IP PIN tool on the IRS website. You’ll need to verify your identity using your SSN, date of birth, and financial information.
- Apply by mail, Form 15227 (January 2025) – If you can’t use the online tool, you can apply by mail using IRS Form 15227. This option is available if your income is US$84,000 or less (US$168,000 for married couples filing jointly).
- Receive an IRS letter – If the IRS has already identified you as an identity theft victim, they will automatically send you a letter each year with your new IP PIN.
- Retrieve your IP PIN if lost – If you forget or lose your IP PIN, you can look it up using the IRS online tool. The IRS does not replace IP PINs over the phone.
- Get a new IP PIN every year – The IRS issues a new IP PIN each year, so you’ll need to check your IRS account before filing your taxes.
- By Mail with a CP01A Notice – If the IRS has previously issued you an IP PIN, they will send a CP01A letter every year with your new PIN.
When filing your tax return, you must enter your IP PIN to verify your identity. If you don’t include it, the IRS may reject your tax return for security reasons.
What is an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)?
An IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a special six-digit number that helps protect you from tax fraud. It ensures that only you can file a tax return using your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Why should I get an IP PIN?
Identity thieves sometimes steal personal information and file fake tax returns to claim refunds. If someone tries to file a return without your IP PIN, the IRS will reject it. This stops criminals from using your name and Social Security number to commit tax fraud.
Who should get an IP PIN?
- People who had their identity stolen – If someone has already filed a tax return in your name, the IRS will automatically send you an IP PIN every year.
- Anyone who wants extra protection – Even if you haven’t been a victim of fraud, you can request an IP PIN voluntarily for added security.
- People at higher risk of fraud – If you’ve been affected by a data breach or security hack, getting an IP PIN can help protect your tax information.
What is a CP01 letter?
A CP01 letter is a notice from the IRS that contains your Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). If you have been given an IP PIN, you must use it when filing your tax return to prevent fraud.
When will I receive a CP01 letter?
- If the IRS assigned you an IP PIN due to past identity theft, you will receive a CP01A letter with a new PIN every year.
- If you requested an IP PIN voluntarily, the IRS will mail this letter after approving your request.
What happens if I lose my CP01 letter?
- You can retrieve your IP PIN online using the IRS Get an IP PIN tool.
- If you cannot access the online system, you can call the IRS at 800-908-4490 for a replacement.
Why use the IRS Streamlined Tax Amnesty Program?
It’s for American citizens that didn’t know they had to file U.S. tax returns each year, and have therefore fallen behind. Some more than 30 years! With the IRS Streamlined Procedure, say goodbye to overdue tax returns, late fees, and penalties.
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Is it easy for a US citizen living outside of the US to get an IP PIN?
Not necessarily. Since the online application process is primarily designed for US residents and requires a US address, obtaining an IP PIN while living abroad can be challenging due to the IRS’s identity verification requirements.
How can an expat get an IP PIN?
- Step 1: Create an ID.me account
- Step 2: Get verified using the information provided here: https://help.id.me/hc/en-us/articles/4415907236375-Verifying-if-you-live-outside-of-the-United-States
- Step 3: Log in to your ID.me account and look for IP PIN. Otherwise, use this link and click on IP PIN: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin
- Step 4: Request an IP PIN.
- Step 5: Provide your IP PIN to your Client Coordinator.
I can’t get verified online for ID.me-–is there another way?
Yes, you can call the IRS.
International users can call at 1-267-941-1000 (not toll free) between 6 am-11 pm EST.
Alternatively, you can mail your tax return to the IRS.
Please note that we’ll have to change your tax return from efile to paper file and fees may apply.
The IRS will subject your paper return to additional screenings to validate your identity, delaying any refund you may be due.
Is an IP PIN required for all US tax returns?
It depends. An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is not required for everyone filing a US tax return. The IRS provides IP PINs mainly to people who have been victims of tax identity theft or those who choose to get extra protection for their tax filings.
If the IRS detects that someone has tried to file a tax return using your information, they will automatically assign you an IP PIN. If you receive a notice from the IRS stating that you need an IP PIN, you must use it when filing your tax return. If you forget or don’t enter the correct IP PIN, the IRS may reject your e-filed return or delay your paper return for review.
For people who haven’t been victims of identity theft, the IP PIN is optional. You can sign up for one voluntarily using the IRS Get an IP PIN tool. Once you enroll, the IRS will send you a new IP PIN every year, and you’ll need to use it when filing your taxes.
How does the IRS verify my identity for an IP PIN?
To get an IP PIN, the IRS requires proof of identity. If you apply online, you must provide your Social Security number, mailing address, and financial information to confirm your identity. If applying by mail, you may have to provide additional verification documents.
An IP PIN is one of the best ways to prevent tax-related identity theft. By using it every year, you can keep your personal and financial information safe when filing your tax return.
How should I use my IP PIN when filing taxes?
- Find your IP PIN – The IRS mails a CP01A letter every year with your new IP PIN. If you signed up for an IP PIN voluntarily, you can get it online using the IRS Get an IP PIN tool.
- Enter your IP PIN when filing – Whether you use tax software or a tax professional, make sure to include your IP PIN in the correct section before submitting your return.
- Make sure it’s correct – If your IP PIN is missing or incorrect, the IRS may reject your tax return or delay it for review.
- Keep it private – Only share your IP PIN with a trusted tax preparer. Be careful of scammers pretending to be the IRS and asking for your PIN.
- Retrieve a lost IP PIN – If you forget or lose your IP PIN, use the IRS Get an IP PIN tool to look it up. The IRS will not give out IP PINs over the phone.
Where can I get help if I have issues with my IP PIN?
If you’re having trouble with your IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), there are ways to fix the issue so you can file your taxes without delays.
- Use the IRS “Get an IP PIN” tool – The fastest way to find or reset your IP PIN is through the IRS website.
- Check your mail for the CP01A letter – If the IRS assigned you an IP PIN, they send a CP01A letter every year with your new PIN.
- Verify your identity – If you can’t get your IP PIN online, you may need to verify your identity before the IRS issues a replacement.
- Call the IRS for help – If you still need assistance, contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 800-908-4490. However, the IRS won’t provide replacement IP PINs over the phone.
- File a paper tax return if necessary – If you can’t retrieve your IP PIN, you may have to file a paper return instead of e-filing, but this could delay your refund.
