CP01A notice explained, in the IRS’s own words

What this notice is about

This notice tells you about the identity protection personal identification number (IP PIN) we sent you.

Each year, we issue CP01A notices that have a unique 6-digit IP PIN with instructions on how to use it.

Recipients of Notice CP01A don't need to file a Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit PDF, unless you as a recipient experience an identity theft incident after you received a notice CP01A.

What you need to do

When filing Forms 1040, 1040-SR, 1040-NR or 1040-SS, you must enter your 6-digit IP PIN in the correct place on your federal tax return.

Electronic returns

• Every taxpayer who receives an IP PIN must enter it on the return. This includes the primary taxpayer, spouse, and dependent.
• If only one taxpayer receives an IP PIN, enter it with that taxpayer's Social Security number (SSN).
• If both taxpayers receive an IP PIN, both taxpayers must enter the IP PIN with their SSNs.
• If your dependent received an IP PIN, you must include his or her IP PIN on your federal tax return as well as Form 2441, Child and Dependent Care Expenses PDF, and Schedule EIC, Earned Income Credit PDF.

Paper returns

• The primary taxpayer or secondary (spousal) taxpayer who receives an IP PIN must enter it on the return.
• Enter the IP PIN for the first taxpayer listed on the tax return in the box marked "Identity Protection PIN" located to the right of Your signature and occupation.
• Enter the IP PIN for the second taxpayer listed on the tax return in the box marked "Identity Protection PIN" located on the right of Spouse's signature and occupation.

Where can I find more information on the IP PIN?

• Visit Get an identity protection PIN (IP PIN).
• Review the IP PIN FAQs page.

Important things to remember about your IP PIN

• Protect your IP PIN. Do not reveal your IP PIN to anyone other than your tax preparer. You must use your IP PIN on your current or prior years Forms 1040, 1040-SR, 1040-NR or 1040-SS returns you file in the calendar year or:
• We'll reject electronically filed returns.
• The processing time may increase for paper returns, which would delay any refund due to you.
• Your IP PIN is valid only for federal income tax returns. If your state issues similar PINs, use only those PINs for state income tax returns. These PINs are different.
• We'll send you a CP01A notice with a new IP PIN each December/January by postal mail.
• Store the CP01A notice securely with your tax records.
• Publication 5027, Identity Theft Information for Taxpayers PDF
• Publication 4524, Security Awareness for Taxpayers PDF

Related CP notices

• CP01C notice
• CP01E notice
• CP01H notice
• CP01S notice
• CP01U notice
• CP02 notice