Your IRS PIN is a six-digit number the IRS assigns to you for identity verification

The IRS issues a Self-Select PIN to most taxpayers as a way to verify your identity when you file electronically or access your account online. This PIN is separate from your Social Security number and is meant to prevent someone else from filing a return in your name. If you have filed a federal tax return in the past few years, the IRS has already created a PIN for you — you do not need to request one.

The PIN itself is not something you explore for or set up. The IRS generates it automatically once you file a return. Your job is to locate the PIN you already have or understand when you might need a different one.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Self-Select PIN is mailed to you by the IRS after you file your first return, usually arriving within two weeks.
  • You can retrieve your PIN by logging into your IRS account at IRS.gov using your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status.
  • If you cannot find your PIN or did not receive it, you can create a new one through the IRS website or call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
  • The IRS also issues an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to victims of identity theft, which is different from your Self-Select PIN and serves a different purpose.

How to retrieve your PIN through IRS.gov

The fastest way to find your PIN is to log into your account on IRS.gov. Go to the "View Your Tax Account" section and sign in using your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and a valid email address. Once you are logged in, your Self-Select PIN will be displayed on your account dashboard.

You will need to create an IRS online account if you do not already have one. This requires verifying your identity through a third-party service — the IRS uses companies like ID.me or Equifax to confirm you are who you say you are. The verification process takes a few minutes and asks questions about your financial history that only you would know.

Once you have access to your account, your PIN appears under the "Security" or "Tax Records" section, depending on which part of the site you navigate to. Write it down or take a screenshot, since you will need it when you file electronically.

What to do if you did not receive your PIN in the mail

If you filed a return but never received a PIN by mail, it may have been lost or sent to an old address. The IRS does not resend PINs automatically, so you will need to create a new one yourself.

You can create a new Self-Select PIN through IRS.gov without calling. Log into your account, go to the security settings, and select the option to create or reset your PIN. The IRS will ask you to choose a six-digit number of your own — this is why it is called a "Self-Select" PIN. You can use any six digits you want, as long as you remember it. Once you create it, it takes effect when ready and you can use it to file your return.

If you cannot access your IRS account online, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and speak with a representative who can help you create a new PIN over the phone. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready when you call. Wait times are often long, especially during tax season.

The difference between a Self-Select PIN and an Identity Protection PIN

The IRS issues two different types of PINs, and it is important not to confuse them. Your Self-Select PIN is what you create or retrieve for routine filing. An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is issued only if the IRS has determined that you are a victim of identity theft or are at high risk of it.

If you have been assigned an IP PIN, the IRS will mail it to you, and you must use it instead of your Self-Select PIN when you file. You cannot file your return without it. The IRS sends IP PINs to people who have reported identity theft to the agency or whose information has been compromised in a data breach affecting IRS systems.

You can check whether you have been issued an IP PIN by logging into your IRS account or by calling 1-800-829-1040. If you have one, it will be clearly marked as an "IP PIN" and will come with instructions on how to use it when you file.

When you need your PIN to file your return

You will need your Self-Select PIN or IP PIN if you are filing your federal tax return electronically through a tax software or a tax professional. The PIN is entered into the return itself as part of the authentication process. Without it, the IRS will reject your return.

If you are filing a paper return by mail, you do not need to include your PIN. The PIN is only required for electronic filing. However, the IRS encourages electronic filing because it is faster and more accurate than paper returns.

Some tax software will ask for your PIN during the filing process; others will ask you to enter it when you submit the return to the IRS. Either way, have your PIN ready before you start.

What to do if you forget your PIN

If you have already filed a return with your PIN and now cannot remember it, you can retrieve it again by logging into your IRS account at any time. The PIN does not change unless you change it yourself, so it will be the same number you used before.

If you cannot access your account or do not remember the PIN you created, you can create a new one through the IRS website or by calling 1-800-829-1040. Creating a new PIN will replace your old one, so make sure you update your records.

Do not share your PIN with anyone, including tax professionals, unless they are preparing your return on your behalf. The PIN is meant to protect your account from unauthorized access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same PIN every year?

Yes. Your Self-Select PIN does not expire and remains the same from year to year unless you change it. You can use the same PIN to file multiple returns over many years. If you create a new PIN, the old one is replaced.

What if the IRS says my PIN is invalid when I try to file?

Double-check that you are entering the correct six-digit number. If you are certain it is correct, log into your IRS account to confirm the PIN is still active. If the problem persists, create a new PIN through the IRS website or call 1-800-829-1040 before you submit your return.

Do I need a PIN if I am filing through a tax professional?

Your tax professional will ask you for your PIN when they prepare your return. You still need to have it available, even though they are doing the filing on your behalf. Some professionals may ask you to authorize them to retrieve it from the IRS directly.

Is my PIN the same as my Social Security number?

No. Your PIN is a separate six-digit number created by the IRS. Your Social Security number is nine digits and is used for many other purposes. The PIN is specifically for protecting your tax account from identity theft.