As we approach the 2025 tax season, the IRS strongly recommends that all taxpayers obtain an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN). Here is an article about the importance of doing this.

The IP PIN is an unique six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a federal tax return using a taxpayer’s Social Security number. The IP PIN is only known to the individual and the IRS and is used to confirm the person’s identity when they file their tax return. This extra level of security helps to safeguard against identity theft.

The time to do this is now before November 23, 2024. After that date, the IP PIN system will undergo maintenance and will not be available again until early January 2025.

Signing up for an IP PIN now will help to protect the taxpayer’s identity once the filing season officially begins. New IP PINs are generated during this period for the 2025 tax filing season. Online enrollees must retrieve their new IP PIN starting in early January 2025. The PIN number is valid for one calendar year.

To obtain an IP PIN, go to IRS Online Account.  If you are unable to create an Online Account, there are other options. You can go in-person to a Taxpayer Assistance Center.

Taking this step is essential to protect yourself against tax-related identity theft.

If you have any questions, feel free to call one of our tax professionals at Isdaner & Company.