Nobody wants to deal with tax refund fraud or identity theft, let alone having to deal with IRS representation in Des Moines, IA, and elsewhere. Identity theft has become a major issue in recent years, with fraudsters using fake identities to file false tax returns and claim refunds before the rightful owners can. This can result in untangling the mess left behind by a fraudster for months or years, so taking precautions to protect your identity now is well worth it.
The IRS is making it easier to take these precautions by making Identity Protection PINs available to all taxpayers in the United States. Look through this blog to learn more about securing your IP PIN. You will not only protect yourself from these undesirable tax issues, but you will also help your family and friends to protect themselves.
What is IRS IP PIN?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) is a six-digit number provided by the IRS that adds an extra layer of personal identity security. This is to prevent anyone else from using your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from being used fraudulently on a tax return. It is intended to make it more difficult for tax evaders to file false tax returns.
The IP PIN is currently used on Forms 1040, 1040-NR, 1040-PR, 1040-SR, and 1040-SS. Each IP PIN expires after a year, and you must sign up for a new IP PIN to use when filing that year’s income tax returns. It is important to remember your pin when you visit us for your income tax preparation in Des Moines, IA.
How To Get Your IP PIN
The IP PIN program is voluntary, and you will not be assigned one. Here are the steps you can take to obtain your own IP PIN.
- Create an IRS Account – If you don’t already have an account, create one on the IRS website. Here is the information you’ll need to open an IRS account.
- Personal information such as full name, phone number, birthday, and address
- Active email address to which the IRS can send emails.
- Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) (ITIN)
- A digital copy of your most recent tax returns’ filing status.
- Financial account numbers such as a mortgage, student loan, auto loan, or line of credit.
- “Get an IP PIN” – After creating an account, use this button on the IRS website to register. Keep in mind that this includes a thorough identity verification process before approval. Once approved, you will be given an IP PIN that is good for a year.
- Other Way To Apply – If you are unsuccessfully registered through the online tool, you can also apply through mail, fax, or in person. You will need an SSN or ITIN, access to a phone, and an adjusted income of $72,000 or less to apply by fax or mail. If you meet these requirements, you may fax or mail Form 15227 to the IRS. The IRS will then contact you to begin the registration process.
To apply in person, you must schedule an appointment with the Taxpayer Assistance Center. You must provide one picture identification document and one additional identification document. You will receive your IP PIN three weeks after your identity has been verified.
What If You Forget Your IP PIN
If you forget your IP PIN, you can re-register on the IRS website and use the same tool you used when you first registered. If you are unable to access the tool, you may contact their support team to have your IP PIN reissued.
Obtaining an IP PIN takes only a few minutes but provides you with all-year protection against fraudulent tax returns. Prevention is always preferable to experiencing fraud and regretting it later. However, if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation and need IRS representation in Des Moines, IA, never hesitate to contact Accounting & Tax Professionals, PLC. We will walk you through the entire process and will never leave you to face your problem alone.
Call us at (515) 986-5843 or come to our office at 270 W 1st St Suite K, Grimes, IA to speak with one of our dependable and experienced tax attorneys. We look forward to hearing from you!