IP PIN

[earmstrong4]

So just confused by the information being given and explained. So went to file my taxes for the first time in 3 years i think (i have not had to with my income not being enough to file) and everything went fine while filing with turbotax but then i get rejected for not providing my IP PIN which is a voluntary PIN given out by the IRS for people with cases of identity theft in the past.(from what i've read on the irs website and turbotax website) So why did i get rejected if its voluntary also if i need to have it to e-file my taxes, why isn't that stated? all it says its a PIN given out by the IRS and is voluntary so why cant i file without it? I've tried to retrieve it online but no luck because my license is invalid and cant get a state ID without it also i don't really get mail, like any so cant verify with that so what am i supposed to do?  also would love to know if its required to E-file then how is it a "voluntary" program? 

[taxlady28]

It is voluntary to apply for an IP Pin.  But once you apply then it is mandatory to use the pin assigned to you each year.

[NCperson]

if the IRS has assigned you an IPPIN due to past identity theft, it is not voluntary and you can not remove it from your account.  The IRS will send you a new IPPIN via mail each year.  

if you requested an IPPIN and therefore it was voluntary, you must obtain the IPPIN from the IRS website each year.  it is not automatically mailed to you.