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Protect Your Child From Tax Fraud with an IP PIN

Updated: Jun 8, 2024

Now more than ever, parents need to protect the personal information of their children from the moment their social security number is received.  Research shows that child identity fraud costs U.S. families nearly $1 billion annually and affects one out of every 50 children. 


One effective way to help protect your child’s financial security is by obtaining an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) for them which is a six digit number assigned to your child by the Internal Revenue Service to help prevent identity theft and tax fraud.  

What is an IP PIN?

It acts as an extra layer of security, like a password, that must be entered alongside your Social Security number (SSN) when you electronically file your tax return.

While typically associated with adults, children can also benefit from having their own IP PIN.

Why is an IP PIN Important for Children?

Without an IP PIN, a child’s SSN could be used to file a fraudulent tax return, stealing potential returns and leaving them with tax debts. 

How to Obtain an IP PIN for Your Dependent

Acquiring an IP PIN for your child is a fairly straightforward process. Here’s what you need to do:

Online Method

  • Navigate through the steps involved in using the online tool.

  • Provide the necessary information for identity verification.

  • Implement security precautions to ensure a safe online experience.

Alternatives to the Online Method

If you can’t use the online tool, you have the option to mail in Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number.

According to the IRS, to use the mail method you must have the following:

  • A valid SSN or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for your child.

  • Adjusted gross income requirements 

  • Telephone access

Once you submit the form and the IRS receives it, they will call to verify your child’s identity. Once verified they will mail you the IP PIN via the U.S Mail, typically within four to six weeks.

Alternatively, you can schedule an in-person appointment at your local Taxpayer Assistance Center. Be prepared to bring the necessary documentation to verify your child’s identity. According to the IRS, you need one current government-issued picture identification document and another identification document.

What to Do After Receiving Your Child’s IP PIN

After obtaining your child’s IP PIN, follow these steps:

  • Securely store the IP PIN to help prevent unauthorized access.

  • Share the IP PIN only with trusted individuals when necessary. Example: Your trusted tax preparer

  • Understand how to incorporate the IP PIN into the tax filing process.

  • Ensure that the correct IP PIN is used each year.

  • Be proactive in updating relevant information if circumstances change.

Keep in mind that the IRS will never ask for your IP PIN through phone calls, emails, or texts. If this happens to you, it can be a scam aimed at stealing your personal information.


Final Step: Freeze Your Child's SSN With All 3 Credit Bureaus

Protect My Kids ID is the only secure way to easily freeze your child's SSN at all 3 credit bureaus. When you freeze their credit reports it stops the theives from opening credit in your child's name. Otherwise, your child will have to deal with the burden of bad credit which can prevent them from qualifying for a student loan, and make it difficult to rent their first apartment.  They could be faced with insurmountable debt which will take months or even years to remediate. 



 
 
 

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