The IP PIN (Identity Protection PIN) is a six-digit number issued to you by the IRS. The IRS will issue you a new number every year. They will only send you that six-digit number via the U.S. Postal mail, and they will send it to the mailing address you listed on your 2016 return. Until you get that IP PIN in the mail, you will not be able to e-file your return.
The IP PIN is mailed out each year in late December and early January. They don't give specific dates. So if you've not received your IP PIN by Jan 31st, you can contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040. Expect long hold times on the phone this time of year.
