Act Now: Protect Your Tax Information Before the IRS PIN Window Closes

Tax-related identity theft happens when someone files a fraudulent return using your Social Security number, often before you’ve had a chance to file your own. The IRS is urging taxpayers to take two steps to prevent it. One of them comes with a deadline that’s only days away.

The time-sensitive step: get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

An IP PIN is a six-digit number known only to you and the IRS. Once you have one, no one else can file a federal return using your Social Security number or ITIN. You don’t need to be a victim of identity theft to get one. Any taxpayer can request one as a preventive step.

Here’s the catch: the IRS takes its online IP PIN tool offline for annual maintenance in mid-November, and it isn’t back until mid-January. If you want your PIN in hand before early filing season, request it now through the IRS’s Get an Identity Protection PIN page. If you wait, you may not be able to get one until after filing season has started.

Once you have your PIN:

• Keep it private. Share it only with your trusted tax preparer when it’s time to file.

• Remember that the IRS will never call, email, text or message you on social media asking for your IP PIN. Anyone who does is a scammer.

The ongoing step: secure your IRS online account

Your IRS Individual Online Account shows your filed returns, refund status, payments and tax records, which makes it valuable to thieves. Never share your sign-in information with anyone, and treat it as carefully as your bank login.

We’re here to help

If you have questions about whether an IP PIN makes sense for you, or you’d like help getting set up, reach out to us. When you’re ready to file, we’ll make sure your PIN is used correctly on your return.

Source: IRS News Release IR-2026-127, “IRS reminder: Take steps now to protect tax information,” Oct. 22, 2026.