Financial Scams & Stolen Identity Prevention
Financial Scams & Stolen Identity Prevention
Scams & Stolen Identity Are More Sophisticated Than Ever!
NEW TAX SCAMS & IDENTITY THEFT PREVENTION
Please take a moment to read about new tax scams: https://www.irs.gov/help/tax-scams
Now, more than ever, we want to encourage you to work on scam PREVENTION! For our clients who are not computer savvy, you can be more vulnerable. We suggest you work with your family members to help you take the important steps detailed below and we highly encourage ALL our clients to take the time to complete the following preventative steps to protect your identity and your tax return.
OBTAIN AN IP PIN (FEDERAL IRS)
An IP PIN (Identity Protection Personal Identification Number) is a six-digit number assigned by the IRS to eligible taxpayers to help prevent identity theft on their federal tax return. It acts as an additional layer of security by verifying the taxpayer’s identity during the filing process. Taxpayers who have obtained an IP PIN must enter their IP PIN when filing electronically or by paper to confirm that the return is legitimate. The IP PIN is renewed annually and is unique to each taxpayer. It is especially useful for those who have been victims of identity theft or who want to proactively protect their tax accounts.
To obtain an IP PIN and get yourself ready (now!) for Tax Season, follow these steps:
Step 1: Create an ID.me Account: www.irs.gov > Sign In > Individual > Create a New ID.me Account
Step 2: Login to your IRS.gov Account online using your new ID.me account login information: https://www.irs.gov/
Step 3: Obtain an IP PIN: Apply for your IP PIN under the ‘Profile’ web page in your new www.irs.gov account (NOTE: This service will become available again on (approximately) January 6, 2026
Once you receive your IP PIN, please provide the PIN to our office by phone or email.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT IP PINs
An IP PIN is valid for one calendar year
A new IP PIN is generated each year for your account
Logging back into your online account, will display your current IP PIN through the Profile Tab
An IP PIN must be used when filing any federal tax returns during the year including prior year returns
Spouses and dependents are eligible for an IP PIN if they can pass the identity verification process
See FAQs about the identity protection personal identification number (IP PIN)
HR Tax Prep encourages you to read up on the new and dangerous financial scams so you can be proactively aware and protect your identity and sensitive financial information. We also encourage you to follow the simple steps above to apply for your individual IP PIN before the upcoming Tax Season.