IRS Urges Taxpayers to Enroll for IP PIN Ahead of 2025 Filing Season, IR-2024-278

The IRS has encouraged taxpayers to register for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) to strengthen their defenses against tax-related identity theft. With the 2025 tax season approaching, the IRS recommended early enrollment to secure a personalized six-digit code that helps prevent fraudulent filings using Social Security or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers.

Taxpayers can obtain their IP PIN by creating or logging into an IRS Online Account. The system ensures identity verification, and individuals, including spouses and dependents, can complete the necessary steps to receive an IP PIN. This code must be used on all federal tax returns—electronic or paper—for the year, including amended or prior year filings.

The IRS also advised taxpayers to register before November 23, 2024, as the IP PIN system will undergo maintenance until early January 2025, when new IP PINs for the 2025 tax season will be generated. IP PIN holders must retrieve their updated code in January to ensure smooth electronic filing.

For individuals unable to access the Online Account, alternatives such as in-person authentication at a Taxpayer Assistance Center are available. Taxpayers should safeguard their IP PIN and only share it with the IRS and their tax preparer. New participants can enroll now for 2024, with additional information available on the IRS website.

IR-2024-278