IRS Notice CP01A: Your Identity Protection PIN

Quick answerThe IRS mailed you a 6-digit Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). You must enter it on your return so the IRS knows it's really you. A new IP PIN is issued every year.

Letter / noticeCP01A

MeaningYour Identity Protection PIN

Action needed?Yes — see steps

What happens next

Arrives early in the calendar year, before filing season.

What you should do

Enter the IP PIN on your return (both spouses if each has one)
Keep it private — the IRS will never ask for it by phone, text or email
Lost it? Retrieve it with the IRS Get an IP PIN tool

IRS Notice CP01A explained: Your Identity Protection PIN — what it means and what to do next — Save this quick guide for later — share it or pin it.

Scam check: the IRS first contacts you by mail. Use only the phone numbers printed on your letter or on IRS.gov — never ones from a text, email or unofficial site.

Frequently asked questions

What does IRS Notice CP01A mean?

The IRS mailed you a 6-digit Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). You must enter it on your return so the IRS knows it's really you. A new IP PIN is issued every year.

What should I do?

Enter the IP PIN on your return (both spouses if each has one) Keep it private — the IRS will never ask for it by phone, text or email Lost it? Retrieve it with the IRS Get an IP PIN tool

How long does it take?

Arrives early in the calendar year, before filing season.

Sources

Written by the editorial team and checked against the official sources above. See our editorial policy.

By the TranscriptCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-11-12.