How to Protect Your Tax Refund With a 6-Digit IRS PIN
Tax season is stressful enough. The last thing anyone wants is to find out a criminal has already filed a tax return in their name and taken the refund.
Unfortunately, that’s a common scam.
Criminals use stolen Social Security numbers to file fraudulent tax returns before the real taxpayer does. By the time victims try to file, the IRS tells them a return has already been submitted. Fixing it can take months. In some cases, much longer.
There is a simple way to prevent this.
What Is an IRS Identity Protection PIN?
An Identity Protection PIN, or IP PIN, is a unique six-digit code issued by the Internal Revenue Service.
When you file your federal tax return, you must enter that PIN to verify your identity. If someone tries to file a return using your Social Security number without the PIN, the IRS will reject it.
Even if a criminal has your name and Social Security number, they cannot successfully file without your six-digit code.
Think of it as two-factor authentication for your tax return.
Why This Matters Now
Massive data breaches over the past several years have exposed hundreds of millions of Social Security numbers and other personal information. That data is often sold online.
Tax season gives criminals an opportunity. If they file first, they can attempt to collect your refund before you even know what happened.
The IRS says more than 10 million taxpayers are already using an IP PIN. But that is only about 6 percent of the roughly 160 million Americans who file tax returns each year.
Most taxpayers still don’t know this protection exists.
How to Get an IRS IP PIN
Getting an Identity Protection PIN is free and only takes a few minutes.
Here’s how:
- Go to IRS.gov
- Click on “Your Online Account”
- Sign in or create an IRS online account
- Verify your identity
- Request your Identity Protection PIN
Once approved, you will receive your six-digit PIN immediately.
You must use that PIN when filing your federal tax return. If a tax professional prepares your return, you will need to provide them with the number.
Important Things to Know
• The IRS issues a new IP PIN each year.
• You must keep your PIN secure.
• This protection applies to federal tax returns.
• If you previously had an IP PIN, you may need to retrieve your new one through your IRS account.
A Small Step That Can Prevent a Big Headache
Tax identity theft can take months or even years to resolve. A six-digit code can prevent it before it happens.
It’s free. It takes minutes. And it could protect your refund.
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