Answers · Individual tax · Form 1040
What Is an Identity Protection PIN?
An IP PIN is a six-digit IRS identity-verification number used to help prevent fraudulent filings.
How it works
The rule, and what it turns on.
The PIN changes annually and should be securely shared only as needed for filing.
Example
A return rejecting for missing IP PIN should be corrected using the current-year PIN.
Common mistakes
What we see go wrong, and what we do instead.
- Using last year’s PIN.
- Sending PIN insecurely.
A better approach
- Use secure portal/document process.
Authority
Where this comes from, so you can check it.
IRS Identity Protection PIN guidance; IRC §6103.
Educational information, not individualized tax advice. Treatment depends on your facts, entity classification and tax year, and IRS instructions change. Confirm your own position with us before relying on it. Mint Associates does not provide legal services.
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