Jan. 27, 2025

What Steps Should I Take If I’m Locked Out of E-Filing?

Locked Out of E-filing? The Secret PIN That Changes Everything!

Have you ever been ready to e-file your taxes, only to be stopped in your tracks by a missing PIN? It can be frustrating, especially when you're trying to get your taxes done on time and honor your financial obligations before God and man. What Steps Should I Take If I’m Locked Out of E-Filing? But don't worry, there's a secret PIN that can change everything: the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN).

What is an IP PIN?

The IP PIN is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers to help prevent the misuse of their Social Security number (SSN) on fraudulent federal income tax returns. It's like a secret code that only you and the IRS know, adding an extra layer of security to your tax return¹. In a sense, it acts as a shield, protecting your financial identity and giving you peace of mind as you navigate the complexities of tax season. Just as a steward is entrusted with managing resources wisely, the IP PIN helps you safeguard what God has provided³.

The IRS used to have an e-file PIN service, but it was discontinued in 2016 due to cyberattacks targeting the security of this unique signature used to file taxes online⁴. The IP PIN is a more secure alternative that helps protect taxpayers from identity theft.

If you don't have an IP PIN, you can use the Self-Select PIN method. This involves choosing a five-digit PIN to electronically sign your tax return⁵. The PIN can be any five numbers you choose (except all zeros), and you don't need to register it with the IRS beforehand⁵.

It's important to remember that IP PINs are valid for one calendar year, and you'll need to get a new one each year⁶. This ensures that your information remains secure and protected against potential fraud.

Who is eligible for an IP PIN and how do I get one?

Anyone with an SSN or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) can get an IP PIN, even if you don't have a filing requirement². This includes individuals living abroad². Spouses and dependents are also eligible if they can pass the identity verification process².

The fastest way to get an IP PIN is to request one online through your IRS account². If you don't have an account, you'll need to register and validate your identity⁷. You can also call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 to have your IP PIN mailed to you⁸.

How do I use my IP PIN?

Once you have your IP PIN, you'll need to enter it when prompted by your tax software or provide it to your tax professional¹. The IP PIN is used on Forms 1040, 1040-NR, 1040-PR, 1040-SR, and 1040-SS¹. If you claim a dependent who has an IP PIN, you must enter it on your Form 1040 series as well as Form 2441 and Schedule Earned Income Tax Credit⁹. Dependents' IP PINs are required for both paper and electronic filings¹.

Remember to keep your IP PIN confidential and don't share it with anyone².

What if I lose my IP PIN?

If you lose your IP PIN, you can retrieve it online through your IRS account or call the IRS to have it reissued¹⁰.

Why is an IP PIN important?

An IP PIN is important because it helps protect you from tax-related identity theft². Identity theft can be a major headache, and it can take a long time to resolve. An IP PIN can help prevent this from happening in the first place.

From a Christian perspective, protecting our financial identity is also about being responsible stewards of the resources God has given us. Proverbs 22:7 reminds us that "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." ¹¹ By taking steps to protect ourselves from identity theft, we can avoid financial hardship and remain faithful stewards. Obtaining an IP PIN is a proactive measure to protect the resources God has entrusted to us, aligning with the principles of Christian stewardship¹².

What are other ways to be financially responsible?

Besides getting an IP PIN, there are other ways to be financially responsible:

Create a budget: Proverbs 13:16 says, "Every prudent person acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly." ¹³ Creating a budget is like building a fence around your finances, helping you track your income and expenses so you can make informed decisions and avoid overspending. Imagine a family who diligently budgets their income, allocates funds for necessities, and sets aside savings for future needs. They are acting with wisdom and foresight, ensuring that their resources are used responsibly and in a way that honors God.
Save for the future: Proverbs 21:20 says, "Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it." ¹⁴ Saving for the future is like storing up grain for the winter, preparing for unexpected expenses and achieving your financial goals. Consider a young couple who consistently saves a portion of their income for a down payment on a house. They are demonstrating foresight and discipline, working towards a future where they can provide a stable home for their family.
Avoid debt: Proverbs 22:7 warns us about the dangers of debt¹¹. By avoiding debt, you can stay in control of your finances and avoid financial stress. Think of a person who avoids unnecessary debt and lives within their means. They are free from the burden of owing others and can use their resources to bless others and further God's kingdom.
Give generously: Proverbs 11:25 says, "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." ¹⁵ Giving generously is a way to show gratitude for what God has given us and to bless others. Imagine a business owner who tithes faithfully and supports charitable causes. They are acknowledging that everything they have comes from God and are using their resources to make a positive impact on the world.

A Christian Perspective on Paying Taxes

As Christians, we are called to be honest and responsible citizens, and that includes paying our taxes. Romans 13:6-7 states, "This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor." This passage reminds us that paying taxes is not simply a legal obligation but also a moral one. By fulfilling our tax obligations, we are supporting the government in its role of maintaining order and providing essential services.

Conclusion

The IP PIN is a valuable tool that can help you protect yourself from tax-related identity theft and be a faithful steward of your finances. By getting an IP PIN and following other biblical principles of financial responsibility, such as creating a budget, saving for the future, avoiding debt, and giving generously, you can honor God with your finances and experience the peace and freedom that comes with wise financial management. Remember to always seek God's guidance in all your financial decisions, and He will provide for your needs according to His riches in glory¹¹. So, take the proactive step of obtaining an IP PIN today and commit to managing your finances in a way that glorifies God and reflects His blessings in your life.

Works cited

Frequently asked questions about the identity protection personal ..., accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-identity-protection-personal-identification-number-ip-pin
Get an identity protection PIN | Internal Revenue Service, accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin
en.wikipedia.org, accessed January 19, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stewardship_(theology)#:~:text=Stewardship%20in%20Christianity%20follows%20from,responsibility%20of%20the%20Christian%20steward.
Why the IRS Discontinued the E-file PIN and What That Means for You - TurboTax - Intuit, accessed January 19, 2025, https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/irs-tax-return/why-the-irs-discontinued-the-e-file-pin-and-what-that-means-for-you/L4yliKcfv
Self-select PIN method for Forms 1040 and 4868 Modernized e-File (MeF), accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/self-select-pin-method-for-forms-1040-and-4868-modernized-e-file-mef
What is an IP PIN and Why is It Important this Tax Season?, accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.fedortax.com/blog/what-is-an-ip-pin
www.irs.gov, accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin#:~:text=The%20fastest%20way%20to%20receive,register%20to%20validate%20your%20identity.
How do I get my 6-digit IP PIN? - TurboTax Support - Intuit, accessed January 19, 2025, https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/internal-revenue-service/get-6-digit-ip-pin/L2d9PWUfx_US_en_US
IRS Identity Protection PIN - Identity Theft - TaxAct, accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.taxact.com/support/1664/irs-identity-protection-pin-identity-theft-taxact
Retrieve your IP PIN | Internal Revenue Service, accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/retrieve-your-ip-pin
18 Bible Verses About Wealth and Prosperity - Kenneth Copeland Ministries, accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.kcm.org/real-help/finances/apply/18-bible-verses-about-wealth-and-prosperity?language_content_entity=en-US
What is an Identity Protection PIN and Do You Need One? - Central Bank, accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.centralbank.net/learning-center/what-is-an-identity-protection-pin-and-do-you-need-one/
25 Bible Verses About Managing Your Finances - Pushpay, accessed January 19, 2025, https://pushpay.com/blog/25-bible-verses-about-managing-your-finances/
11 Awesome Stewardship Bible Verses - Art Rainer, accessed January 19, 2025, https://www.artrainer.com/post/11-awesome-stewardship-bible-verses
What The Bible Says About Finance | Christian Financial Advisors, accessed January 19, 2025, https://christianfinancialadvisors.com/education-center/financial-biblical-scriptures/

Ralph V. Estep, Jr.

Christian Financial Consulting

Ralph V. Estep, Jr. is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse background in finance, accounting, technology, and entrepreneurship. As the principal at Saggio Management Group, Inc., he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in various roles throughout his career.

Ralph's educational journey began at St. Mark's High School in Newark, Delaware before attending the University of Nebraska where he was an esteemed member of the Cornhusker Marching Band and had the privilege of performing at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando.

Continuing his pursuit of knowledge and excellence, Ralph earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from the University of Delaware. He further expanded his academic achievements by obtaining a Master's in Business Administration from Wilmington University.

Throughout his professional journey, Ralph has been recognized for his outstanding accomplishments and commitment to excellence. He is a member of prestigious organizations such as the Golden Key National Honor Society and Beta Gamma Sigma International Business Honor Society.

With an extensive range of professional designations including Licensed Public Accountant (LPA), Accredited Business Accountant (ABA), Accredited Tax Advisor (ATA), Accredited Tax Preparer (ATP), and Internal Revenue Service Registered Tax Preparer (RTRP), Ralph possesses comprehensive expertise in tax preparation and financial management.

Beyond his impressive qualifications, Ralph has actively engaged with various community programs as bo… Read More

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