Update on the IRS Identity Protection PIN Retrieval Tool

What Is the IP PIN Retrieval Tool

• The IP PIN is a six-digit code issued by the IRS to help prevent identity theft and fraudulent tax filings.
• The “Get an IP PIN / Retrieve Your IP PIN” tool on IRS.gov allows eligible taxpayers to obtain or recover their yearly IP PIN.

Recent Update: Seasonal Downtime

• As of the latest IRS guidance, the IP PIN retrieval service is unavailable in the online account between mid-November and early January, while the IRS completes its annual maintenance and updates the system for the coming tax year.
• If you attempt to access the tool during this maintenance window, you’ll see a notice indicating the lapse — but you can plan to return after the system reopens.

What That Means for You — Timing Is Key

Because of this seasonal shutdown:

• If you want an IP PIN for the upcoming filing season (e.g. for 2025 returns), you should retrieve or enroll before mid-November.
• Waiting until January may slow things down if everyone logs in at once — delays in identity verification could hold up your ability to e-file promptly.
• If you lose your IP PIN or never received a valid one, don’t wait — plan ahead, especially if you want to e-file early.

How to Get or Retrieve an IP PIN

1. Go to the IRS website → “Get an IP PIN / Retrieve IP PIN.”
2. Log in to (or create) your IRS Online Account and verify your identity.
3. Once verified, your current IP PIN will show under your Profile page.
4. Enter that PIN on your tax return (federal) if required. If you file for dependents who also have IP PINs, make sure to include their codes too.

If online retrieval fails or you don’t qualify online, there are backup options:

• File Form 15227 to request a PIN via mail/phone verification (income limits apply).
• Visit a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center — bring valid ID for in-person verification, then IRS mails your IP PIN.

Important – Yearly Renewal Required

• Every IP PIN is valid only for a single calendar year. Even if you had one last year, you must retrieve or get a new one for the new filing season.
• If you opted into the IP PIN program, the annual number will be available again via the retrieval tool or mailed to you (for those automatically enrolled).

Why the IP PIN Matters More Than Ever (2025–2026)

• The IRS has indicated that the IP PIN system will play a larger role in preventing fraud and duplicate-dependent claims, especially as e-filing volume increases.
• Filing without your current IP PIN when one is required will result in either return rejection or significant refund delays.

• The IRS IP PIN retrieval tool remains the fastest, most secure way to get or recover your Identity Protection PIN — but it’s closed each year from mid-November through early January for maintenance.
• Make it a priority to retrieve or enroll before November to avoid delays in your early return preparation.
• If you miss that window, either use backup methods (Form 15227 or in-person), or plan for potential delay in filing and refund processing.