The Security Summit- a partnership between the IRS, state tax agencies, and the tax software and professional sectors- is expanding its efforts to encourage taxpayers to gain extra protection by acquiring an Identity Protection PIN. (IR 2022-210, 12/1/2022)
For 2023, the "Get an IP PIN" tool on the IRS website is scheduled to become available on January 9. Nearly seven million taxpayers are now participating in the IP PIN program.
"One of the critical features of the IRS system involves an IP PIN, which is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers to help prevent the misuse of their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number on fraudulent federal income tax returns," the IRS said.
As described by the agency, an IP PIN is known only to the taxpayer and the IRS. Initially designed for use by confirmed victims of tax-related identity theft, the IP PIN program was expanded in 2021 to afford any taxpayer nationwide who wants the added protection afforded by using the number to acquire one.
"The IP PIN is the number one security tool currently available to taxpayers from the IRS," the Electronic Tax Administration Advisory Committee said in its annual report to Congress. "This tool is the key to making it more difficult for criminals to file false tax returns in the taxpayer's name. In our view, there are many benefits of increased IP PIN use."
The IRS noted critical points about the IP PIN program, including:
For the upcoming year, online registration should become available beginning on January 9, 2023, and the IP PIN will immediately be revealed to the taxpayer;
No identity theft affidavit is required for taxpayers opting in;
The IP PIN is valid for one year;
The IP PIN should be entered on any return, filed electronically or on paper; 5. Anyone with a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number who can verify their identity is eligible for the IP PIN opt-in program;
Any eligible family member can get an IP PIN, including the primary taxpayer, the secondary taxpayer, or any of their dependents;
Never reveal an IP PIN to anyone except when a taxpayer is using a "trusted tax professional" to file a return and only at the time the return is ready for signature and submission; and
A confirmed tax-related identity theft victim should still file Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit.
Two options are available for taxpayers who cannot pass the online authentication process. The first option is to file Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number. The individual must have access to a telephone to be contacted by an IRS representative. The second option is to visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
For additional information, go here and also read Publication 5367, Identity Protection PIN Opt-in Program for Taxpayers.
Article from 2022 Thomson Reuters/Tax & Accounting