is an ip pin number required?

[pdzq74]

why is the filing pin number i have used for years that the irs issued to me not good this year? i was not sent any mail in january.

[MindyB]

It depends - you only need one if you have previously enrolled in the program or if the IRS specifically assigned one to you (usually due to identity theft). So no, it is not required for everyone, but it sounds like it is required for you.

Usually, you can find your 2025 IP PIN on the CP01A Notice the IRS mailed to you in late 2025 or early 2026. Since you do not have the letter, you can retrieve your code online at www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin.

[fanfare]

Sometimes the IRS assigns an IP PIN but doesn't tell you.

You find out the hard way when your e-File is REJECTED.

Just another reason not to wait till the last days.

@pdzq74