What an IRS Identity PIN is and when you need one

An IRS Identity PIN is a six-digit number the IRS assigns to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return in your name. You do not request it — the IRS issues it to you, usually by mail. You then enter this PIN when you file your own return, proving to the IRS that you are the person filing.

You receive an Identity PIN automatically if the IRS has already detected identity theft on your account, or if you are a victim of tax-related identity theft and have reported it. You may also receive one if you are a high-income earner or work in certain occupations the IRS monitors. If you have not received one and do not fall into these categories, you do not have an Identity PIN yet — and you do not need one to file.

The confusion often arises because there are several different PINs the IRS uses. An Identity PIN is different from a Self-Select PIN (which you create yourself if you want extra security) or a Preparer PIN (used by tax professionals). This guide covers the Identity PIN the IRS sends to you.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS mails an Identity PIN to you; you do not request one through a form or website.
  • You receive an Identity PIN automatically if the IRS detects identity theft on your account or if you report it yourself.
  • If you have not received a PIN and have not experienced identity theft, you likely do not need one to file your return.
  • You can create your own Self-Select PIN through the IRS website if you want to add security without waiting for an Identity PIN.
  • When you file, you enter your PIN in the appropriate field on your tax return form or through your tax software.

How the IRS sends you an Identity PIN

When the IRS issues an Identity PIN, it arrives by mail to the address on file with your Social Security number. The letter comes from the IRS and includes your six-digit PIN. The IRS typically sends this letter to the address associated with your most recent tax return or the address you provided to the Social Security Administration.

The mailing process takes time — often several weeks. If you have reported identity theft to the IRS, the agency may prioritize your PIN, but you should still expect to wait. There is no way to speed up the mailing process or to have the PIN sent electronically instead.

If you believe you should have received a PIN but have not, you can contact the IRS directly. The IRS Identity Theft Hotline is 1-800-908-4490. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready when you call. The IRS can confirm whether a PIN was issued and resend it if the original letter was lost.

What to do if you have already experienced identity theft

If someone has already filed a tax return using your Social Security number, the IRS will assign you an Identity PIN as part of its identity theft response. You will receive a letter (usually Form 7061 or a similar notice) explaining that identity theft was detected and that your PIN is enclosed.

Once you have this PIN, you must use it every time you file a federal tax return going forward — not just for the year the theft occurred. The PIN remains yours until the IRS removes it, which typically happens after a set period (often three years) if no further theft is detected.

If you are still in the process of resolving identity theft with the IRS, do not file your return until you have received your PIN. Filing without it when the IRS expects you to use one can delay processing and create confusion about which return is legitimate.

Creating a Self-Select PIN if you do not have an Identity PIN

If you have not been assigned an Identity PIN by the IRS but want to add a layer of security to your account, you can create your own Self-Select PIN. This is different from an Identity PIN — you choose the number yourself, and it serves as a password-like safeguard.

To create a Self-Select PIN, you log into your IRS account through IRS.gov using your username and password. Once logged in, you navigate to the security settings and select the option to create a Self-Select PIN. You choose a five-digit number that you will then enter on your tax return when you file.

The Self-Select PIN is optional and is meant for people who want extra security but do not have an Identity PIN from the IRS. If you later receive an Identity PIN from the IRS (because identity theft is detected), the Identity PIN takes precedence and you will use that instead.

Entering your PIN when you file your return

When you file your tax return — whether you use tax software, a tax professional, or paper forms — you will see a field asking for your PIN. If you have an Identity PIN from the IRS, you enter that six-digit number. If you created a Self-Select PIN, you enter your five-digit number. If you have neither, you leave the field blank.

Tax software programs like TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct all have a space for your PIN during the filing process. The location varies slightly depending on the software, but it is usually in a section labeled "Identity Protection" or "Security." A tax professional filing on your behalf will ask you for your PIN and enter it themselves.

If you file a paper return using Form 1040, the PIN field appears on the form itself. You write your six-digit or five-digit number in the space provided. Make sure the number is clear and legible so the IRS can read it correctly.

What happens if you lose or forget your PIN

If you have an Identity PIN from the IRS and you lose the letter it came in, contact the IRS Identity Theft Hotline at 1-800-908-4490. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status available. The IRS can tell you what your PIN is or send you a replacement letter.

If you created a Self-Select PIN and forgot it, you can reset it through your IRS account on IRS.gov. Log in, go to security settings, and select the option to create a new Self-Select PIN. You will choose a new five-digit number to use on your next return.

Do not guess at your PIN or make one up. Entering an incorrect PIN can flag your return for review and delay processing. It is better to contact the IRS or reset your PIN than to file with a wrong number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request an Identity PIN if I have not experienced identity theft?

No. The IRS only issues Identity PINs to people it has identified as victims of identity theft or to certain high-income earners and occupations it monitors. If you want security without an Identity PIN, you can create a Self-Select PIN through your IRS account instead.

What if I file my return and realize I used the wrong PIN?

Contact the IRS as soon as possible. You can call the Identity Theft Hotline at 1-800-908-4490 or file an amended return (Form 1040-X) with the correct PIN. Filing an amended return is the safest way to correct the error and may support the IRS processes your return correctly.

Do I need a PIN if I use a tax professional to file for me?

You still need to provide your PIN to your tax professional if you have one. They will enter it on your return. If you do not have a PIN, you do not need one — your tax professional will file without it.

How long does it take to receive an Identity PIN in the mail?

It typically takes several weeks. The exact timeframe depends on mail delivery and IRS processing volume. If you reported identity theft, the IRS may prioritize your PIN, but you should still expect to wait. If you have not received it after six weeks, contact the IRS Identity Theft Hotline.

Can I file my return before my Identity PIN arrives?

No. If the IRS has assigned you an Identity PIN because of detected identity theft, you must wait for it to arrive before filing. Filing without it when the IRS expects you to use one will cause your return to be rejected or flagged for review.