Secure Your 2027 Taxes: Get Your IRS Identity Protection PIN Before Mid-November Maintenance

Get Your IRS Identity Protection PIN Before the Mid-November Maintenance Pause

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is reminding taxpayers who plan to file their taxes early in 2027 to get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) before the agency’s online tool for requesting these PINs goes offline for annual maintenance. This maintenance period is expected to begin in mid-November 2026 and last until mid-January 2027. While the online service will be unavailable, the IP PIN program itself will continue to operate.

An IP PIN is a free, six-digit code designed to prevent identity thieves from filing a fraudulent federal tax return using a taxpayer’s Social Security number (SSN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). Anyone can request an IP PIN, even if they are not required to file a tax return. It is important for taxpayers to understand that a new IP PIN is issued each calendar year, meaning a PIN obtained for 2026 will not be valid for tax year 2027.

Understanding the IP PIN Request Window

The IRS has advised early filers to request their IP PIN before the mid-November closure of the online tool. This recommendation is about ensuring access to the online service, not a strict tax filing deadline. The online system is typically back online by mid-January each year. If taxpayers wait until after the tool closes for maintenance, they will lose online access to request or manage their IP PIN until it returns.

It is important to note that the IRS has not provided exact dates for the start and end of this maintenance interruption. Furthermore, individuals who already possess an IP PIN should not assume they can retrieve or replace it online during this maintenance period. The agency has not specified whether these functions will remain available.

How to Obtain an IP PIN

Taxpayers can request an IP PIN through their IRS Individual Online Account. After signing in, individuals will need to complete identity verification if necessary and then select the PIN option under their profile. This online method is generally the quickest way to get a new PIN.

For tax year 2027, taxpayers will need to use the IP PIN issued specifically for that year. Those who previously enrolled in a one-time IP PIN will be automatically opted out at the end of the calendar year, December 31, 2026. To maintain protection for 2027, they can choose continuous enrollment or re-register for a new PIN.

Alternative Methods for IP PIN Applications

For taxpayers who cannot verify their identity online, the IRS offers alternative application routes. These methods may or may not be fully available or processed during the online service outage.

Using Form 15227

Certain taxpayers may qualify to apply for an IP PIN using Form 15227. Eligibility for this form generally depends on the adjusted gross income (AGI) reported on the most recently filed tax return. For single filers, the AGI must be below $84,000, and for those married filing jointly, it must be below $168,000. Applicants using this method also need a working phone and an SSN or ITIN. The IRS will contact the applicant by phone to verify their identity, and the PIN will be mailed, typically within four to six weeks.

Taxpayer Assistance Center Appointments

Individuals who are unable to verify their identity online, are ineligible for Form 15227, or encounter technical difficulties can seek an appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). It is important to understand that an appointment at a TAC does not guarantee that a PIN will be issued before or during the online pause. The appointment line for TACs is 844-545-5640.

Protecting Your IP PIN and Account

Once obtained, the IP PIN should be protected carefully. It should only be shared with a trusted tax professional when preparing and submitting a tax return. Taxpayers should also safeguard their IRS account credentials and avoid sharing them with anyone. By taking these steps, individuals can file their tax returns with greater confidence, knowing their tax information is better protected.

Frequently Asked Questions