Why did I get this rejection?
The IRS requires an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) for certain taxpayers to help prevent identity theft and tax fraud.
This rejection means your return was missing an IP PIN or the number entered didn’t match IRS records. Without the correct IP PIN, the IRS won’t accept your e-filed return.
Who needs an IP PIN?
You’ll need to enter an IP PIN if any of the following apply:
You were previously a victim of tax-related identity theft and the IRS issued you an IP PIN
You opted into the IRS IP PIN program for extra security
If the IRS issued you an IP PIN, it’s required every time you file.
How to fix the rejection
There are a few things you can check to get this sorted. Start with the steps below, then resubmit your return in april once everything’s updated:
Find your current year IP PIN
An IP PIN is a six-digit number that the IRS issues each year. IP PINs from prior years won’t work.
You can find your current IP PIN in one of these places:
On IRS Letter CP01A, which is mailed in December or January for the current tax year
In your IRS online account, if you’ve already retrieved it
Make sure you’re using the IP PIN for the tax year you’re filing.
If you lost or didn’t receive your IP PIN letter
If you can’t find your CP01A letter:
Retrieve your IP PIN online through the IRS website
Sign in to your IRS account to view your current IP PIN
This is the fastest way to get your number.
If you can’t access your IP PIN online
If you’re unable to retrieve your IP PIN online:
Request that the IRS reissue your IP PIN
Allow up to 21 days for it to arrive
Once you receive it, enter the new IP PIN and resubmit your return.
IP PIN vs. Self-Select PIN
These two PINs are different and aren’t interchangeable.
IP PIN
Six digits
Issued by the IRS
Required for certain taxpayers to prevent identity theft
Self-select PIN
Five digits
Used as an electronic signature when e-filing
Chosen during the filing process
What’s a Self-Select PIN?
A Self-Select PIN is a five-digit number used to sign and e-file your tax return.
If you’re still getting rejected
If you’ve entered the correct, current-year IP PIN and your return is still rejected:
Double-check that all six digits were entered correctly
Confirm you’re using the IP PIN for the correct tax year
If the issue continues, you’ll need to contact the IRS directly for help resolving the mismatch.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, financial, accounting, or other advice. Rules and regulations vary by location and are subject to change, so please consult with an expert if you need advice specific to you.
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