Protecting Your Tax Identity: The Role of IRS Identity Protection PINs 

Tax-related identity theft has become a growing concern, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. To counter this threat, the IRS has implemented various safeguards, one of which is the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). In this article, we will explore the significance of the IRS Identity Protection PIN and how it enhances your defense against fraudulent tax returns being processed. 

Understanding the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) 

An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number provided by the IRS to eligible taxpayers. It serves as an additional layer of security to protect against tax-related identity theft. The IP PIN helps ensure that only the legitimate taxpayer can file a tax return using their Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). 

How the IP PIN Works 

When you have an IP PIN, you must include it on your federal tax return when filing. The IRS will then cross-reference this unique PIN with your SSN or ITIN. If a tax return is submitted without a valid IP PIN, it may be flagged as potentially fraudulent and subject to further scrutiny. 

Eligibility for an IP PIN 

Not all taxpayers are automatically eligible for an IP PIN. Historically, the IRS has provided IP PINs primarily to individuals who have experienced identity theft-related tax issues. However, recent initiatives have expanded IP PIN availability. As of 2022, you may be eligible for an IP PIN if: 

• You filed a federal tax return last year as a resident of Florida, Georgia, the District of Columbia, Michigan, California, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, or Rhode Island. 
• You received an IRS notification inviting you to opt into the IP PIN program. 

The Benefits of Using an IP PIN 

• Enhanced Security: The primary benefit of an IP PIN is the added layer of security it provides. Without the correct IP PIN, a fraudulent return using your SSN or ITIN is less likely to be accepted by the IRS. 
• Reduced Risk of Identity Theft: By using an IP PIN, you reduce the risk of tax-related identity theft. It adds a barrier that fraudsters must overcome to file a fraudulent return in your name. 
• Streamlined Resolution: If you’ve been a victim of tax-related identity theft in the past, using an IP PIN can streamline the resolution process. It helps the IRS quickly identify your legitimate return. 

Obtaining and Using Your IP PIN 

If you are eligible for an IP PIN, you can obtain one by visiting the IRS’s Get an IP PIN tool on their official website. You will need to verify your identity, which includes providing personal information and answering questions to confirm your identity. 

Once you have an IP PIN, be sure to include it on your federal tax return when filing. Keep it secure, as you will need it for future filings. 

Conclusion 

In an era where tax-related identity theft is on the rise, safeguarding your tax identity is paramount. The IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a valuable tool that offers an added layer of security, helping protect against fraudulent tax returns being processed in your name. If you are eligible for an IP PIN, taking advantage of this safeguard can provide peace of mind and contribute to a safer tax-filing experience. To enhance your tax identity protection, consider opting into the IP PIN program and using this powerful tool to secure your financial well-being. 

Tax-Related Identity Theft: A Growing Threat Amid the Pandemic 

Tax-related identity theft has emerged as a significant concern, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in identity theft cases, coupled with the backlog the IRS is facing, has created challenges for the agency in safeguarding against fraudulent tax returns. In this article, we’ll explore the issue of tax-related identity theft, its increasing prevalence during the pandemic, and how the IRS’s backlog has affected its ability to prevent fraudulent returns from being processed. 

The Menace of Tax-Related Identity Theft 

Tax-related identity theft occurs when a fraudster uses someone else’s personal information to file a fraudulent tax return and claim a refund. Victims often remain unaware of the theft until they attempt to file their legitimate tax return and find that it has already been submitted. This crime not only harms individuals but also places an enormous burden on the IRS. 

The Pandemic’s Impact 

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the problem of tax-related identity theft. Several factors contributed to this increase: 

• Economic Relief Programs: The pandemic led to the distribution of economic relief payments, such as stimulus checks and unemployment benefits. Fraudsters exploited these programs to obtain personal information and file fraudulent tax returns. 
• Remote Work and Online Activity: With more people working and conducting financial transactions online, there were more opportunities for identity theft. Cybercriminals took advantage of lax security measures and increased online activity. 
• Overwhelmed IRS: The IRS faced significant challenges during the pandemic, including staff shortages, office closures, and a backlog of tax returns and correspondence. These challenges created an environment where fraudulent returns could slip through the cracks. 

Backlog and Safeguarding Challenges 

The IRS has historically implemented safeguards to detect and prevent fraudulent tax returns. These safeguards include matching taxpayers’ reported income with information provided by employers and financial institutions, as well as monitoring for suspicious patterns and inconsistencies. 

However, the backlog of tax returns and correspondence at the IRS has strained its ability to maintain these safeguards effectively. Here’s how the backlog has affected these safeguards: 

• Delayed Processing: The backlog has caused delays in processing tax returns and correspondence. This delay allows fraudsters more time to submit fraudulent returns and claim refunds before the legitimate taxpayer files. 
• Resource Allocation: The IRS has had to reallocate resources to address the backlog, diverting attention and manpower away from fraud detection efforts. 
• Overwhelmed Systems: The surge in tax-related identity theft cases has overwhelmed the IRS’s systems, making it harder to detect and halt fraudulent returns in real time. 
• Increased Vulnerability: The combination of delayed processing, resource challenges, and overwhelmed systems has made the IRS more vulnerable to identity theft schemes. 

Protecting Yourself 

Given the prevalence of tax-related identity theft, individuals must take steps to protect themselves: 

• File Early: Filing your tax return early reduces the window of opportunity for fraudsters to file a fraudulent return in your name. 
• Secure Personal Information: Safeguard your Social Security number, financial documents, and personal information. Be cautious about sharing such information online or over the phone. 
• Use Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts, and enable two-factor authentication where available. 
• Monitor Your Financial Statements: Regularly review your financial statements and credit reports for any suspicious activity. 

Conclusion 

Tax-related identity theft is a serious issue that has been on the rise, exacerbated by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the IRS’s backlog. While the IRS continues to work on addressing these challenges and enhancing its fraud detection measures, individuals must remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect themselves from falling victim to identity theft. Early filing, securing personal information, using strong passwords, and monitoring financial activity are crucial safeguards in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. 

 Was your Tax Identity Stolen? Contact our team today to see how we can help secure your identity and prevent fraudulent activity.