You are not required to set up an IRS PIN, however it is an added level of security to prevent someone from filing a fraudulent tax return using your social security number. If you don't have an IRS PIN then you only need to create your 5 digit pin when trying to file electronically via TurboTax. However, if you do have an IRS PIN, you will need BOTH the IRS PIN and your created 5 digit pin to submit your return. Unfortunately, TurboTax locates the IRS PIN input in a not so obvious location. It took me a long time to find it. It is located under "Federal Taxes/Other Tax Situations/Other Return Information". I don't know why they didn't put this in the same location as where you enter your 5 digit pin....
