Yes, as a victim of identity theft, you can get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). An IP PIN is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers to help prevent the misuse of their Social Security Numbers (SSNs) on fraudulent federal income tax returns. When you have an IP PIN, it prevents someone else from filing a tax return with your SSN.
If your SSN has been lost or stolen or you suspect you're a victim of tax-related identity theft, you should take steps to secure your tax account. The IRS assigns IP PINs to taxpayers who have experienced identity theft to protect their tax accounts from fraudulent filings. You can learn more and obtain an IP PIN by visiting IRS.gov/IPPIN.
Additionally, if the IRS suspects tax ID theft, they will send a 5071C letter to your home address, instructing you to verify your identity. If you did not receive an IRS notice but believe you’ve been the victim of ID theft, you should contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 800-908-4490 immediately.
Sources:
Instructions for Form 1040-C (01/2024)
Publication 971 (12/2021)
Publication 535 (2022)
Publication 541 (3/2021)
Publication 529 (12/2020)
Publication 595 (10/2021)
