How Do I Get an Identity Protection Pin from the IRS?
Filing taxes is one of those things we are required to do. Few of us look forward to it, but we know it is coming every year. The only thing that makes filing taxes worse is suffering from identity theft or tax refund fraud. Fortunately, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has taken steps to make you a little more secure and provides easier access to precautions like an identity protection PIN.
What is an Identity Protection PIN?
An identity protection PIN (IP PIN) prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your social security number.
It is a unique six digit number that IRS assigns to you.
You and the IRS are the only ones that know the number. They use it to verify your identity when you file your tax return.
When you are given this number, you must use it when you file your taxes. If you have a professional filing your taxes, you must share your PIN with that person. If you are using software to file your taxes, you must enter it during the course of filing. This IP PIN is intended to secure your account. If you file your return without the number or with an incorrect number, your return will be rejected.
Who is Eligible?
In 2021, anyone who is a taxpayer can voluntarily choose to receive an identity protection PIN. An identity protection PIN can proactively protect you from any future identity theft related to taxes. If you want to opt in to receiving this PIN, you will have to prove your identity. It is an intense process to verify your identity to get a PIN. Your spouse and dependents are also eligible for PINs, but they also must pass the identity process. You can also receive a PIN if you are a victim of identity theft. You must be a confirmed victim, and your tax issues must be resolved.
How to Get an Identity Protection Pin?
If you have been confirmed as a victim of identity theft, IRS will mail you a notice (CP01A) if there has been a resolution to your case before the next filing season begins.
If you have voluntarily opted into the IP PIN program, there is a tool online that you can use. You must create an account at IRS.gov if you do not already have one. When you create an account, this is where you will register and verify your identity.
The IP PIN remains valid for only one calendar year. A new PIN is sent to you every year. You will not be able to access the online tool from the middle of November to the middle of January every year.
What Do I Need to Provide to Create an Account?
When you want to create an account at IRS.gov, you must be prepared to provide information to prove your identity. You will need your
Full name
Phone number
Date of birth
Social security number
Email address
Current address
Filing status for taxes
You will need an additional financial account to register, and you will have to provide that number. It may be a credit card, mortgage, or some other type of loan. IRS emails you a code that you must verify. You must also verify your phone number.
What Happens if I Lose My PIN?
If you have lost your IP PIN or did not receive your notice with your PIN enclosed, you can go to the online tool to find your number. If you are not able to get it online, you can follow the instructions listed on the website to retrieve your PIN, just to make sure you did not miss a step.
You can call IRS to have a new number issued. You should not apply for a new PIN.
When Do I Use My PIN?
When you file your tax return using tax software, you will be prompted to provide your six digit PIN. If a professional is preparing your taxes, you will need to give them to that person. You must provide the correct number. Failure to do so will cause delays with your return and potential rejection.
You should not give your PIN to anyone else !
You should only provide your PIN to your tax professional when you are ready to sign and submit.
IRS does not ask you for your PIN. If you receive an email, phone call, or text asking for your PIN, it is a scam. Do not provide your PIN to anyone.
Other Ways to Protect My Identity From Fraud
If you believe you have fallen victim to identity theft or tax refund fraud, you can file an affidavit of identity theft. This is the course of action you should take if you believe someone has stolen your tax refund or your identity.
You can also put a freeze on your credit to prevent anyone from opening up new lines of credit in your name.
You can add fraud alerts which gives you an additional layer of security when your credit is used. These alerts make you aware when anyone is trying to access your credit record.
Where Else Can I Get Help?
Filing taxes can be complicated on its own, but when you add a layer of potential or proven fraud into the mix, it becomes more challenging to navigate. You may find yourself searching for tax tips or additional assistance. Goalry Mall is just the place for that kind of help. We are here and ready to assist you with all your tax and financial needs. We can provide answers to questions you did not even think about answering and help you navigate the tax return waters.
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Conclusion
You should always focus on protecting yourself and your identity. The amount of fraud that happens today is astounding. There are processes and steps in place to help you proactively protect yourself from being subject to any type of fraud. IRS has taken action to help all taxpayers further protect themselves from having their identity and tax refund stolen. Take the appropriate steps to get an IP PIN today, and you will be able to file your tax return knowing that you have extra security on your side.