How to Find My Identity Protection PIN: A Guide for Financial Advisors

As a financial advisor, one of your responsibilities is helping clients navigate the complex IRS systems that protect taxpayer identities. One such safeguard is the Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN). Many clients may not fully understand what it is, why they need it, or how to retrieve it.

This blog will give you a clear breakdown of the process, so you can confidently guide clients in retrieving their Self Select PIN IRS (IP PIN).

What Is an IRS Identity Protection PIN?

The IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers to protect against tax-related identity theft. Without this code, an e-filed tax return cannot be accepted in the IRS system.

For clients who have experienced identity theft or who voluntarily opt into the program, the IP PIN ensures that only they (or their advisor, acting on their behalf) can file a valid return.

Why Advisors Should Pay Attention to the IP PIN

As a financial advisor, your clients rely on you to keep their financial records in order and to prevent costly mistakes. Helping them manage or retrieve their Self Select PIN IRS is crucial because:

• It prevents fraudulent returns – Without the correct PIN, scammers can’t file using your client’s SSN.
  
  

• It ensures compliance – Missing or entering the wrong PIN can delay processing or even cause rejection of returns.
  
  

• It builds trust – Guiding clients through these steps reinforces your role as a trusted financial professional.
  
  
  

Where Clients Can Find Their IP PIN

Here’s what to tell your clients when they ask: “How do I find my identity protection PIN?”

1. IRS Online Account
   
   

   • Clients can log in or create an account at IRS.gov.
     
     

   • Once signed in, they can access their IP PIN immediately.
     
     

   • This is the fastest option, but clients need to pass the IRS’s identity verification.
     
     
     

2. CP01A Notice
   
   

   • Each January, the IRS mails out a CP01A notice containing the PIN for the year.
     
     

   • Advise your clients to keep this document in a safe, accessible place.
     
     

3. By Mail (Form 15227)
   
   

   • If clients can’t verify online, they may submit Form 15227, Application for an IP PIN.
     
     

   • This is for taxpayers with income under $79,000 (individual) or $158,000 (married filing jointly).
     
     

4. In-Person Verification
   
   

   • For clients who fail both online and mail methods, an in-person appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) is required.
     
     

   • They’ll need to bring two forms of identification.
     
     

Common Challenges Your Clients May Face

• Lost or Misplaced PIN: If they misplace their CP01A notice, direct them to use the IRS online portal to regenerate their PIN.
  
  

• Locked Out of IRS Account: Clients often forget their login credentials. Encourage them to reset their account ahead of filing deadlines.
  
  

• Fraud Alerts: If a client’s account shows suspicious activity, additional verification steps may be required.
  
  

As their advisor, you can smooth the process by anticipating these hurdles.

Best Practices for Advisors

To position yourself as a proactive partner, consider these tips:

1. Calendar Alerts – Remind clients in January to watch for the CP01A notice.
   
   

2. Secure Storage – Recommend they store their PIN in a secure but accessible location.
   
   

3. E-File Prep – Double-check the PIN before e-filing to prevent rejections.
   
   

4. Education – Explain that this PIN is unique each year; last year’s number won’t work.
   
   

5. Assistance – Be ready to guide clients through the IRS’s “Get an IP PIN” portal if they struggle.
   
   

How the Self-Select PIN IRS Process Works

The Self-Select PIN IRS system lets taxpayers verify their identity electronically and use a chosen PIN when filing online. But when it comes to the Identity Protection PIN, the IRS controls assignment.

Advisors should be clear with clients:

• Self-Select PIN (chosen by the taxpayer) is different from the IRS Identity Protection PIN (assigned by the IRS).
  
  

• If a client is part of the IP PIN program, only the IRS-provided number will work for filing.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Helping clients manage their Self Select PIN IRS, and Identity Protection PIN is about more than compliance—it’s about security and peace of mind. By knowing where to find the IP PIN and how to guide clients through the retrieval process, you strengthen both their financial safety and their trust in your expertise.

As tax season approaches, make it part of your client check-ins to confirm they have their IP PIN ready. Not only does this reduce filing delays, but it also positions you as the go-to advisor who helps them stay secure and compliant.

Let’s talk about how Jalada can support your advisory practice with specialized tax and compliance solutions. Contact us today!

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Attorneys should consult their state bar or legal ethics counsel for guidance on IOLTA compliance.