IRS Detecting More Tax-Related Identity Theft: How to Protect Yourself Before It Happens

Tax-related identity theft is becoming a growing concern for taxpayers across the country, and the IRS is increasing its efforts to stop fraudulent returns before refunds are issued. According to a recent report, the IRS identified millions of suspicious tax returns in 2024 and 2025 through enhanced identity theft detection filters designed to catch fraud earlier and reduce false positives.

At Kamish & Associates CPA Firm, we believe prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of identity theft. One of the most effective tools available today is an IRS Identity Protection PIN, commonly known as an IP PIN.

What Is Tax-Related Identity Theft?

Tax-related identity theft occurs when someone uses your Social Security number or personal information to file a fraudulent tax return and claim a refund in your name. Victims often discover the issue only after their legitimate tax return gets rejected by the IRS because one has already been filed.

The IRS reported that it selected approximately 7.5 million tax returns for identity theft review in 2024 and 2025. The agency also stopped millions of dollars in fraudulent refunds tied to confirmed and potential identity theft cases.

Warning Signs of Tax Identity Theft

You may be a victim of tax-related identity theft if:

• Your e-filed return is rejected because a return has already been submitted using your Social Security number

• You receive IRS notices about tax returns you did not file

• You receive unexpected tax transcripts or IRS account notifications

• IRS records show wages or income from an employer you never worked for

• You receive notices regarding unemployment benefits you never applied for

How an IP PIN Helps Protect You

An Identity Protection PIN is a six-digit number issued by the IRS that adds an extra layer of security to your tax return. The PIN is known only to you and the IRS and helps verify your identity when filing your federal tax return.

Without the correct IP PIN, the IRS will reject electronic returns submitted under your Social Security number.

This makes it significantly harder for identity thieves to successfully file fraudulent tax returns using your information.

How to Apply for an IRS IP PIN

The IRS now allows any taxpayer with a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to voluntarily enroll in the IP PIN program.

Steps to Get Your IP PIN

1. Visit the IRS IP PIN page:

   https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin

2. Create or log into your IRS online account through ID.me

3. Verify your identity using the IRS secure verification process

4. Retrieve your six-digit IP PIN

5. Use the PIN when filing your federal tax return each year

The IP PIN changes annually, so taxpayers must retrieve a new PIN every tax season.

Additional Ways to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft

In addition to obtaining an IP PIN, taxpayers should:

• Use strong, unique passwords for financial accounts

• Enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible

• Avoid sharing sensitive tax documents through unsecured email

• Monitor IRS account activity regularly

• Work with a trusted CPA or tax professional

• Be cautious of phishing emails and scam phone calls claiming to be from the IRS

  
  

Remember: The IRS will never call, text, or email asking for your IP PIN.

Kamish & Associates Can Help

Identity theft can delay refunds, create major headaches, and take months to resolve. Our team at Kamish & Associates stays up to date on the latest IRS fraud prevention tools and tax security recommendations to help protect our clients year-round.

If you have questions about obtaining an IP PIN, securing your tax information, or responding to IRS notices, contact Kamish & Associates today. We are here to help you protect your identity and file with confidence.