Understanding IRS Notice CP01A: Identity Protection PIN Assignment

What is IRS Notice CP01A?

IRS Notice CP01A is a communication from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) notifying taxpayers about their assigned Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN). This PIN is an essential tool for preventing identity theft and protecting sensitive tax information.

Why is the IP PIN Important?

An IP PIN is a six-digit number that adds an extra layer of security for taxpayers. When a taxpayer receives an IP PIN, it must be used on their federal tax returns to verify their identity. This helps prevent tax fraud and unauthorized use of your Social Security Number (SSN).

Who Receives Notice CP01A?

Notices are sent to individuals who require additional identity protection. This includes those who are victims of tax-related identity theft or those who have enrolled in the IRS IP PIN Program voluntarily. Each year, a new IP PIN is issued, and taxpayers receive it through the CP01A notice.

How to Use the IP PIN

• Protection: Use the IP PIN on your federal tax returns, including any amended returns.
• Validation: Only taxpayers with an IP PIN can electronically file their tax returns. This acts as a validation tool for the IRS to process returns.
• Renewal: A new IP PIN is issued each year, so retaining the notice is crucial for yearly tax filings.

Steps to Retrieve Your IP PIN

If you lose or do not receive your CP01A notice, you can retrieve your IP PIN using the IRS online tool by visiting [Get an IP PIN](https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin).

What to Do if You Suspect Identity Theft?

• Contact the IRS: Notify the IRS Identity Theft Protection Specialized Unit immediately.
• File a Report: Use Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, to report the incident.

Discard Fraudulent IP PIN Notices

Be aware of potential scams. The IRS does not send unsolicited emails requesting personal information. Verify any suspicious communications directly with the IRS.

FAQs

• What if I didn't receive Notice CP01A? Visit the [IRS Get an IP PIN page](https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin) for guidance.
• Can the IP PIN be used for state tax returns? The IP PIN is specifically for federal tax returns but check with your state tax agency for similar programs.
• Is the IP PIN the same every year? No, a new IP PIN is issued annually for security purposes.

For additional support on tax-related queries, visit your IRS Dashboard.