Getting your IRS PIN when you've lost it

You can retrieve your IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) through the IRS website without calling or visiting an office. The fastest route is the IRS online tool at irs.gov, which shows your current PIN when ready if you can verify your identity using either a credit report or prior tax return information.

If you don't have access to those verification methods, you can request a replacement PIN by mail, which takes about two weeks. The IRS also mails you a new PIN each year in January if you're enrolled in the IP PIN program — so check your mail before assuming you've lost it.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS online tool at irs.gov/ippin is the fastest way to retrieve your PIN; it requires you to verify your identity using either a credit report or tax return details.
  • If you cannot verify online, you can request a PIN by mail using Form 15227, which arrives in about two weeks.
  • The IRS mails your PIN each January if you're in the IP PIN program, so check your mail before requesting a replacement.
  • You need your PIN to file your tax return if the IRS assigned one to you; filing without it will delay processing.
  • If someone else filed a return using your PIN, contact the IRS Identity Theft hotline at 1-800-908-4490.

Using the IRS online retrieval tool

Go to irs.gov/ippin and select "Retrieve your IP PIN." The tool will ask you to verify your identity in one of two ways: by answering questions about your credit report, or by providing information from a prior tax return (usually your adjusted gross income from last year).

If verification succeeds, your PIN appears on screen when ready. Write it down or take a screenshot — you'll need it when you file. The tool works during business hours on weekdays; if you see an error message outside those times, try again the next business day.

If the tool cannot verify your identity — because you have no credit report, a frozen credit file, or you don't remember your prior-year tax information — move to the mail request method instead.

Requesting a PIN by mail using Form 15227

read Form 15227 (Request for a Replacement Identity Protection Personal Identification Number) from irs.gov or request it by phone at 1-800-908-4490. Fill in your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and current mailing address.

Mail the completed form to the address shown on the form itself — it varies by state. Include a copy of your government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days works). The IRS will mail your new PIN to you in about two weeks.

If you need your PIN before your tax return important date, this method may not arrive in time. In that case, contact the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 to ask whether you can file without the PIN and add it later, or whether the important date can be extended for you.

Understanding when the IRS assigns you a PIN

The IRS assigns an IP PIN automatically if your Social Security number was involved in identity theft or if you filed a report with the IRS about suspicious activity on your account. Once assigned, the IRS mails you a new PIN each January.

If you're in the IP PIN program, you must enter your PIN when you file your tax return — either on the paper form or in the online filing software. If you file without it, the IRS will reject your return, and processing will be delayed while they verify your identity.

The PIN is six digits and changes every year. Do not share it with anyone, including tax preparers, unless they are preparing your return on your behalf.

What to do if you file without your PIN

If you submitted your return and forgot to include your PIN, the IRS will send you a notice asking you to provide it. Respond to the notice within the timeframe shown (usually 30 days) by mailing the form or calling the number on the notice.

Your return will not be processed until the IRS receives your PIN or confirms your identity through other means. This can add several weeks to your refund timeline. If you're expecting a refund, check your account status at irs.gov/refunds to see whether the IRS is waiting for your PIN.

If someone else used your PIN to file

Contact the IRS Identity Theft hotline when ready at 1-800-908-4490. Tell them that someone filed a return using your PIN without your permission. The IRS will flag your account and issue you a new PIN.

You will also need to file your own return and may need to submit additional identity verification documents. The IRS can guide you through the process when you call. Keep records of all communication with the IRS in case you need to dispute fraudulent charges or follow up later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file my tax return without my PIN if I've lost it?

No. If the IRS assigned you a PIN, you must include it on your return. If you cannot retrieve it in time, contact the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 to ask about filing extensions or alternative verification methods.

How long does it take to get a PIN by mail?

The IRS typically mails your PIN within two weeks of receiving your Form 15227. If you're close to your tax important date, this may not arrive in time — call the IRS to discuss your options.

What if I never received my PIN in January?

Check your mail for two weeks after January 1st, as delivery times vary. If it doesn't arrive, use the online retrieval tool at irs.gov/ippin to get your PIN when ready, or request a replacement by mail using Form 15227.

Do I need my PIN if I use a tax preparation service?

Yes. You must provide your PIN to your tax preparer so they can include it on your return. Do not share it with anyone else, and verify that the preparer is authorized to represent you before giving them access to your account.