Reviewed and updated October 16, 2026
Rules and decisions to review
- Eligible taxpayers can request an IP PIN through the IRS process after verifying their identity.
- The IRS issues a new IP PIN each year. Use the current number required for the return you are submitting rather than reusing an old one.
- If an IP PIN has been assigned to you, entering it correctly is important to avoid rejection or processing delays.
- Share the number only with the trusted preparer who needs it and use a secure channel. The IRS will not call, email or text asking you to reveal it.
A practical example
A client may have accurate wages and withholding but still receive an electronic filing rejection because the IP PIN is missing. The fix is to obtain the correct current PIN through the IRS process and provide it securely.
Records to gather
Gather the IRS IP PIN notice or secure account record, filing rejection details and confirmation of which household members received PINs.
Your next step
Retrieve your current IP PIN through the official IRS process before filing. Provide it through the secure client portal, and tell the preparer which taxpayer or dependent the number belongs to.
Official sources
This guide provides general information. The rules depend on the tax year, jurisdiction and your circumstances. Ask our team which filing or planning steps apply to you.
