IRS IP PIN: The Best Defense Against Tax Identity Theft
Tax-related identity theft continues to be a growing concern, but there’s a simple and effective way to protect yourself: the IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). At Big Cake Tax, we strongly recommend that all our clients consider setting up an IRS Online Account and requesting an IP PIN. It's one of the most powerful steps you can take to safeguard your financial identity.
For clients enrolled in our Silver and Gold service tiers, identity theft protection and IRS notice support are also included as part of our ongoing services.
What Is an IP PIN?
An IP PIN is a unique six-digit number issued by the IRS that helps verify your identity when you file a tax return. It’s known only to you and the IRS—and that’s exactly what makes it such a strong defense against fraud.
Key Things to Know About the IP PIN:
Available to All Taxpayers: Anyone with a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) can request an IP PIN—even if they live abroad.
Protection All Year Long: Whether you’re required to file taxes or not, having an IP PIN helps secure your IRS account from unauthorized filings.
Annual Renewal: Each IP PIN is valid for one year. A new number is generated each tax season to maintain security.
Mandatory Use: If you have an IP PIN, you must use it on all federal tax returns, including prior-year or amended returns.
Direct from the IRS Only: The IRS will never call, email, or text you asking for your IP PIN. And while your tax professional can use your IP PIN to file your return, they cannot request one on your behalf.
How to Get an IP PIN
The quickest and most secure way to request an IP PIN is through your IRS Online Account. If you haven’t registered yet, you’ll need to verify your identity to access the system.
Before starting, it’s a good idea to review the IRS identity verification requirements to make sure you have everything you need.
What If You Can’t Validate Your Identity Online?
If online verification isn’t an option, there are still alternatives:
File Form 15227: Taxpayers who earn $84,000 or less individually ($168,000 for married couples filing jointly) can submit this form to apply for an IP PIN.
Visit a Taxpayer Assistance Center: If you're ineligible to file the form or experience technical difficulties, you can schedule an in-person appointment with the IRS.
Identity Theft Protection Through Big Cake Tax
For clients enrolled in our Silver and Gold service tiers, identity theft protection and IRS notice support are included as part of our services. If a tax-related identity issue or IRS notice arises, our team helps guide you through the response process and next steps.
This added layer of protection is especially valuable for clients with complex tax situations, international filings, or prior exposure to data breaches.
Extra Protection for Victims of Tax Identity Theft
If you have experienced tax related identity theft in the past, an IP PIN is one of the most effective tools available to prevent it from happening again. It prevents fraudulent returns from being filed under your name before you file your own. For individuals with complex or international tax situations, this added layer of protection is especially important. We strongly encourage clients to take this step proactively rather than waiting until a problem arises. Preventing tax identity theft is far easier than fixing it after the fact.