The arrival of a new year unfortunately also signals the start of tax season, bringing with it the usual complexities of navigating the US tax code and, increasingly, the need to be vigilant against tax scams. One particularly insidious scam involves fraudsters filing a tax return in your name to steal your refund. You might be completely unaware until you attempt to file your own return, only to discover a tangled mess. The risk of this happening is even higher in 2025, following the numerous data breaches of the past year. With personal information, including social security numbers, readily available on the dark web, protecting yourself is more critical than ever.
The IRS Solution: Identity Protection PINs
Fortunately, the IRS offers a simple yet effective way to thwart this type of fraud: the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). This six-digit numeric code, added to your tax filing, verifies your return as legitimate. Any filing submitted without the correct IP PIN will be flagged and rejected.
Expanded Access for All Taxpayers
While previously limited to victims of identity theft, the IP PIN program is now open to all taxpayers on a voluntary basis. This proactive measure empowers individuals to safeguard their tax refunds and personal information.
Identity Protection PIN site (IRS.com)
How to Enroll in the IP PIN Program
Enrolling in the program is straightforward. Visit the IRS website and verify your identity. The fastest verification method is through the government’s ID.me service, but you can also verify via mail or an in-person appointment. The online process typically takes 15-20 minutes.
IP PIN Management: Annual Renewal
IP PINs are valid for one year and cannot be reused. This annual renewal system enhances security, ensuring that even if a PIN is compromised, your vulnerability is limited. During enrollment, you can opt for annual automatic renewal, eliminating the need to remember to request a new PIN each year. Your ID.me login provides convenient access to your current PIN.
Secure Your Credentials with a Password Manager
Speaking of logins, using a password manager is a highly recommended practice for securely storing and managing your various online credentials. A strong, unique password is essential for protecting your IRS account and other sensitive information.
Simplify Tax Season with an IP PIN
The IRS provides a detailed FAQ page about the IP PIN program, but the process itself is relatively simple. This ease of use is a welcome relief, especially considering the often-complex nature of US tax filing. Protecting your refund from identity theft is a crucial step in simplifying your tax season experience.
