In these dangerous internet times, identity theft continues to rise, and one of the most effective ways to protect your federal tax return is by obtaining an INTERNAL REVENUE SERIVCE Identity Protection PIN (“IP PIN”)
An IPPIN is a six-digit number issued by the IRS that helps confirm your identity when you file your federal income tax return. Once issued, this number must be included on your federal income tax return each year. Without it, the IRS will reject any return filed in your name.
An IP PIN helps protect you from the following:
- Tax-related identity theft
- Fraudulent tax returns filed using your Social Security numbers
- Delays in processing your legitimate tax return
- Potential loss or delay of your refund
Even if you have never experienced identity theft, the IRS now allows any taxpayer to voluntarily obtain an IP PIN as a preventative security measure.
If someone attempts to file a tax return using your information and social security number without your IP PIN, the IRS will automatically reject that return. This ensures that only you or your authorized CPA, us, can successfully file your tax return.
Important to know:
- You will receive a new IP PIN each year
- The IP PIN must be kept secure and extremely confidential
- Losing your IP PIN can cause delays, so it is important to store it safely
- If you have an IP PIN, we must have it before filing your federal tax return
You can obtain your IP PIN directly from the IRS through their secure online portal. The process involves identity verification and usually takes only a few minutes. If you need assistance, we will be happy to help guide you through the steps.
Accordingly, we strongly recommend that all of our clients obtain an IRS IP PIN as an added layer of protection. It is one of the simplest and most effective ways to safeguard your federal tax return and your personal information.
If you have any questions or would like help obtaining your IP PIN, please contact our office before your return is prepared.
Your security is very important to us, and we appreciate the opportunity to help protect your financial and tax information.