IRS Identity Protection PIN: Availability Before the 2027 Filing Season
The IRS is reminding taxpayers that an Identity Protection PIN, a six-digit number known only to the taxpayer and the IRS, prevents others from filing a federal return using their Social Security number or ITIN. Anyone with an SSN or ITIN can request one, including people not required to file. The online IP PIN tool goes offline for annual maintenance in mid-November and is generally available again in mid-January.
What happened
On Oct. 22, 2026 the IRS (IR-2026-127) reminded taxpayers to protect their online account sign-in and consider an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN).
An IP PIN is a six-digit number known only to the taxpayer and the IRS. A return filed with the taxpayer's SSN or ITIN without the correct IP PIN is rejected.
The online IP PIN system goes offline for annual maintenance in mid-November and is generally available again in mid-January.
Who it affects
Anyone with an SSN or ITIN, including people not required to file a return.
Key points
IP PINs are requested through the IRS Online Account.
A new IP PIN is issued each calendar year.
The IRS states it never calls, emails, texts or uses social media to ask for an IP PIN.
FAQS
Is a new IP PIN issued every year?
Yes. A new IP PIN is generated each calendar year and is available in the IRS Online Account.
Can each family member have one?
Yes. Spouses and dependents can each have their own IP PIN, and each must be entered on the return.