CP01A Notice
The CP01A provides your annual IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), a six-digit number you must use when filing your federal tax return to protect your identity and prevent fraudulent returns from being filed in your name. A new number is issued each year.
Why Did You Receive This Notice?
You received a CP01A because the IRS has assigned or renewed your Identity Protection PIN. This typically happens because you were previously a victim of tax-related identity theft, or because you proactively enrolled in the IRS IP PIN program. The IRS issues new IP PINs every year in December or January.
What Does this Mean for You?
Your CP01A contains a six-digit Identity Protection PIN that must be entered on your tax return when you file. Without this PIN, the IRS will reject electronically filed returns, and paper returns will be significantly delayed while the IRS verifies your identity. The IP PIN is your personal protection against someone filing a fraudulent tax return using your Social Security number.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
Your Options
- Keep your IP PIN secure: Store it somewhere safe and use it when you file.
- File your return with the IP PIN: Enter it in the designated field on your tax software or paper return.
- Retrieve a lost IP PIN: If you lose it, you can retrieve it at irs.gov/ippin using your IRS Online Account.
- Opt into the program permanently: If you are not already enrolled, you can opt in at irs.gov/ippin to receive an IP PIN annually as a proactive identity protection measure.
Step-By-Step: What To Do Next
- Store your IP PIN somewhere safe, do not share it with anyone, including your tax preparer.
- When you are ready to file your return, locate your IP PIN.
- Enter the six-digit IP PIN in the designated field in your tax software or on your paper return.
- File your return as normal.
- Destroy the CP01A notice securely after using the PIN, it contains sensitive information.
Can You Handle this Yourself?
The CP01A is one of the most straightforward notices the IRS sends, your only action is to use the IP PIN when filing. If you file with a tax professional, share the PIN with them directly at filing time only. If you lost your PIN, visit irs.gov/ippin to retrieve it through your IRS Online Account. Never share your IP PIN by phone, email, or text, the IRS will never ask for it this way.
Expert Insight From Rockwater Tax
At Rockwater Tax, we always recommend that clients who have been victims of identity theft enroll in the IP PIN program permanently. It adds one small step to the filing process but provides significant protection against fraudulent returns. One thing to watch: if you use a tax preparer, only share your IP PIN directly at the time of filing, never send it by email or leave it in a voicemail. The IP PIN is as sensitive as a password.
Need a hand?
FAQ
Q: What happens if I file without my IP PIN?
A: Electronic returns will be rejected. Paper returns will be significantly delayed while the IRS verifies your identity.
Q: Can someone else use my IP PIN?
A: No, each IP PIN is tied to your specific Social Security number. Do not share it with anyone.
Q: What if I lost my CP01A?
A: You can retrieve your current IP PIN online at irs.gov/ippin using your IRS Online Account.
Q: Do I get a new IP PIN every year?
A: Yes, your IP PIN changes annually. You will receive a new CP01A every December or January with your new PIN.
