What is an Identity Protection (IP) PIN?
Answers
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It's possible the IRS has asked you to use an IP PIN because in a prior year someone either
1) Used your ID to file a fraudulent return.
2) Claimed a dependent fraudulently.
So, an IP PIN is used to protect your tax filing from fraud.
FreeTaxUSA software accommodates Identity Protection (IP) PINs.
You can locate that screen in the Misc tab or when asked for Miscellaneous items.
This entry is required if you are receiving IP PINs from the IRS.
You can read more from the IRS on IP PINs here: IRS Page on IP PINs.
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It's important to note the IRS will not accept your tax return either electronically or by mail if you do not include a required IP PIN.
And, you don't have to be the victim of ID theft to get an IP PIN. You can request one for yourself, your spouse or your dependents after passing an ID verification process.
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What if I never needed or got one?
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If you never needed or got one, what are you asking? If you don't need one, you don't need to put it on your tax return.
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I am kind of lost here. Few good members replied to my post " asked how to get IRS pin in order to e-file my federal return for 2025". I am ready to file but I want to make sure that I am not to print but to e-file. I never got a pin from freetaxusa or from IRS . 2025 return will be the first year that I would like to start e-file. I did apply for ID.ME over a week ago and they are reviewing my documents. So I don't know if that will clerify my situation because I have 3 printers and none of them works. So at the end of day if I use your service would I will be able to e-file or I will be asked to print my return?? Your input very very appreciated and I would thank in advance all replies.
Bouba
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Hi Bouba,
Was your 2025 return rejected for a mismatched or missing IP PIN? FreeTaxUSA does not give you an IP PIN. You must get an IP PIN from the IRS.
Enter your IP PIN on the MISC menu, not the Final Steps.
With an IP PIN, you may e-file your return and are not required to mail the return. If you continue to get rejected, you will have to mail your return.0 -
can I contact IRS now before I start working on my return to ask for a pin??
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Hi Bouba,
Yes, you can absolutely contact the IRS before you start working on your return to request an IP PIN. In fact, that's a great idea since you'll need it before you e-file.
The fastest way to get an IP PIN is through your IRS online account. Since you're already going through the ID.me verification process, once that's approved you can use it to sign in to your IRS account and request your IP PIN right away. Here's the direct link:
https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin
Once you're signed in, go to your Profile page and look for the IP PIN section to enroll.
If you'd rather not wait for ID.me or prefer to call, you can reach the IRS directly at 800-908-4490, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time. Keep in mind that if they mail you the PIN, it can take a few weeks to arrive.
Once you have your IP PIN, you can enter it in FreeTaxUSA under the Misc menu and then e-file your return normally.0
