How to Get or Retrieve Your IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

You need your IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to e-file — but you lost the CP01A letter, or you want to enroll.

Why the quick-answer posts mislead: some pages imply the IP PIN can be emailed or recovered instantly by phone. It can’t. There are two official routes — your IRS Online Account or a mailed reissue — and a key fact people miss: a new IP PIN is generated each year, so last year’s number won’t work on this year’s return.

Fix 1: Retrieve it in your IRS Online Account (fastest)

1. Go to irs.gov → Get an Identity Protection PIN → sign in to your IRS Online Account (ID.me).
2. Your current-year IP PIN is displayed there. Use that exact 6-digit number when you file.

This is the quickest way and also where you opt in to the IP PIN program if you want one.

Fix 2: Request a reissue by mail

If you can’t access the online account:

• The IRS can reissue your IP PIN by mail — expect it to take up to 21 days. Follow the reissue instructions on irs.gov (there’s a phone option to request it be mailed to your address of record).
• You cannot get it by email/text — only the secure online account or mail.

Fix 3: Filing without it / wrong number

• If you have an IP PIN but file without it (or with the wrong/old one), the return is rejected or delayed. Retrieve the current one (Fix 1) and refile.
• Each filer with an IP PIN (you, spouse, dependents enrolled) enters their own.

FAQ

Can I just reuse last year’s IP PIN? No — the IRS issues a new one annually. Get the current year’s from your Online Account.

I never signed up — do I need one? It’s optional but a strong anti-fraud measure. If you were a victim of identity theft, the IRS may assign one automatically (the CP01A letter).

Sources: IRS — Retrieve your Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)