Protect against tax identity theft with Identity Protection PINs and IRS Online Accounts

Walker & Armstrong LLP • August 27, 2025

IRS Identity Protection PINs and IRS Online Accounts can help protect against tax-related identity theft.

The IRS Identity Protection PINs, also referred to as IP PINs, are a critical defense tool against identity thieves. The IRS encourages all taxpayers to establish an IRS Online Account that allows secure access to IRS account information online. This account also guards against fraudsters from attempting to create accounts on their behalf.


IP PIN facts and how to get one


Here are a few key things taxpayers should know about the IP PIN:


  • It’s a six-digit number known only to the taxpayer and the IRS.
  • If you are married, each taxpayer should obtain their own IP PIN.
  • The opt-in program is voluntary, though strongly encouraged.
  • The IP PIN is valid for one calendar year; a new IP PIN is generated yearly. You will need to login to your account at the beginning of each year to obtain your new IP PIN.
  • Only taxpayers who can verify their identities may obtain an IP PIN.
  • IP PIN users should never share their number with anyone but the IRS and their trusted tax preparation provider. The IRS will never call, email or text a request for the IP PIN.
  • Tax professionals cannot obtain an IP PIN on behalf of clients; taxpayers must obtain their own.
  • To obtain an IP PIN, visit the IRS Get an IP PIN page.
  • The IP PIN process for confirmed victims of identity theft remains unchanged, and victims will automatically receive an IP PIN each year.


IRS Online Account facts and how to get one


In addition to enrolling in the IP PIN program, the IRS encourages taxpayers to establish an IRS Online Account, which has the following benefits:


  • Provides secure online access to IRS account information.
  • Helps prevent fraudsters from creating a false account.
  • Allows taxpayers to share information with a trusted tax professional.
  • To set up an IRS Online Account, visit the IRS Online Account page.


The above tools help protect against the threat of tax-related identity theft and we encourage all individual taxpayers to set up an IRS online account and obtain an IP PIN.


Once you have obtained your IP PIN, please reach out to your Walker & Armstrong tax professional to securely transmit it to us. Do not email the IP PIN.


If you would like assistance in setting up an IRS online account or obtaining an IP PIN, we will be hosting an open house at all our locations on the following dates: 


  • Phoenix office at 1850 N. Central Ave., Suite 400
    Phoenix, AZ 85004
    October 3, 2025 from 10 AM to 3 PM

  • Tucson office at 6840 N. Oracle Rd., Suite 150
    Tucson, AZ 85704
    October 3, 2025 from 10 AM to 3 PM

  • Carefree office at 36600 N. Pima Rd., Bldg 3, Suite 305
    Carefree, AZ 85377
    October 2, 2025 from 8 AM to 12 PM


Please come on down and take the valuable steps toward protecting your identity!