As a CPA firm serving Lakewood, Colorado, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects of tax-related identity theft. That’s why we’re urging our clients—and all Colorado taxpayers—to take advantage of a powerful tool offered by the IRS: the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN).
An IP PIN is a six-digit number assigned by the IRS to eligible taxpayers to help prevent the misuse of their Social Security number on fraudulent federal income tax returns. It’s a simple yet effective way to add an extra layer of security to your tax filing process.
In recent years, tax-related identity theft has become increasingly common. Criminals can use your personal information to file a fraudulent tax return and claim a refund in your name. This can lead to numerous headaches, including:
As your local Lakewood accounting professionals, we believe prevention is always better than cure. An IP PIN makes it significantly harder for identity thieves to file a tax return using your information.
The process of obtaining an IP PIN is straightforward and can typically be completed in about 15 minutes. Here’s how:
Important: You’ll need to request a new IP PIN each year. We recommend setting a reminder in your calendar to do this annually.
Some taxpayers hesitate to get an IP PIN due to misconceptions. Let’s clear those up:
Myth: Only victims of identity theft need an IP PIN.
Reality: Anyone can benefit from this extra layer of security.
Myth: Getting an IP PIN is complicated.
Reality: The process is simple and can be done online in minutes.
Myth: An IP PIN is permanent.
Reality: You must obtain a new IP PIN each year for continued protection.
We strongly recommend that you obtain an IP PIN. It’s a small step that can save you countless hours and potential financial loss in the long run.
Remember, effective tax planning goes beyond just preparing your return. It also involves protecting your financial identity and ensuring the security of your personal information.