IRS Account Set-Up
We recommend that all taxpayers sign up for an IRS online account.
An IRS online account makes it easy to quickly get tax forms, tax return status and payment or refund info. With the same ease that you have when banking online or shopping online, you can log in and get the latest on your payment history, balance, and more.
With the increase in identity theft, we also recommend getting an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to prevent your name being used to file fraudulent tax returns.
To set up an IRS account you will need:
- Access to an email that only you will use
- Phone to receive text messages
- A valid driver’s license
- Phone with a camera
Here are the steps to set-up your IRS account.
You can also check out our step-by-step guide with photos. Depending on your phone or computer, the images may vary.
How To Set-Up Your IRS Account
Step 1: Go to www.irs.gov
Step 2: If you do not already have an ID.me account, you will need to create one. Enter your personal email address.
Step 3: Confirm your email address.
- You will receive an email from “ID.me” with the subject “Welcome to ID.me.”
- Click Confirm.
Step 4: Secure your account (Multi-Factor Authentication).
- Select “Text Message or Phone Call” and enter the security code sent to your phone.
Step 5: Verify your identity.
- You can choose Self-Service (requires SSN, photo ID, and a video selfie).
- You also can choose Video Chat Agent (accepts more document types and no selfie, but wait time may vary).
Note: If you have an ITIN instead of an SSN, you must use the video chat option.
Step 6: Upload photos of your ID.
- Use your device camera or upload from your photo library.
Step 7: Take a picture of the front and back of your driver’s license or state ID.
Step 8: Take a video selfie using your phone’s camera.
Step 9: Enter your Social Security number. This is safe. ID.me uses encryption to protect your data.
Step 10: Review and confirm your information.
Step 11: Allow ID.me to share your verified identity information with the IRS.
Step 12: Once confirmed, you can now sign in to the IRS website using your ID.me account.
Requesting an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)
If you do not already have an IP Pin, you will want to request one.
Step 1: Log in to your IRS account at https://www.irs.gov. Select “Individual Account” and log in with your ID.me credentials.
Step 2: Request the IP PIN.
Go to Profile → Identity Protection PIN → Request the IP PIN.
The IP PIN for the current year will be displayed. A new number is issued each calendar year, and you can retrieve it by following the same steps.
Need help?
The friendly tax team at Atlantic Tax & Accounting is here to help! Give us a call or text 954-785-1099.