Should I give my IP PIN to anyone

You should generally keep your IP PIN (Identity Protection Personal Identification Number) secure and not share it with anyone. The IP PIN is a six-digit number assigned to taxpayers to help prevent the misuse of their Social Security Numbers (SSNs) on fraudulent federal income tax returns. It is crucial for protecting your identity and ensuring that only you can file a tax return using your SSN.

However, there are specific instances where you may need to provide your IP PIN:

1. Tax Preparers: If you hire a tax preparer or use a volunteer tax preparation service to prepare your tax return, you will need to provide your IP PIN to them so they can include it on your return.
2. Tax Return Filing: When filing your tax return, whether electronically or on paper, you must enter your IP PIN. For electronic returns, the software will prompt you to enter the IP PIN. For paper returns, it should be entered next to the signature line.

It is important to note that the IRS will never call, email, or text you to request your IP PIN. If you receive such a request, it is likely a phishing attempt, and you should not disclose your IP PIN. Instead, report such incidents to the appropriate authorities, such as the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

In summary, you should only share your IP PIN with your trusted tax preparer and when filing your tax return. Keep it secure and do not disclose it to anyone else, especially in response to unsolicited requests.

Sources:
Instructions for Form 1040-C (01/2024)
Publication 1380
Publication 535 (2022)
Publication 541 (3/2021)
Fact Sheet Updates FAQs on Child Tax Credit
Publication 5316 (11/2023)