In news release IR-2026-127, dated October 22, 2026, the IRS reminded taxpayers to protect their tax information by safeguarding their IRS online-account credentials and obtaining an Identity Protection PIN, or IP PIN. The agency said these steps can help prevent unauthorized access to confidential information and tax-related identity theft. Taxpayers can access an IRS Individual Online Account after verifying their identity. The account allows them to view tax information and complete certain tax-related tasks. It may contain sensitive information, including recently filed returns, refund status, payments, tax records, notifications and service requests. The IRS emphasized that taxpayers should not share their sign-in information with anyone. An IP PIN is a six-digit number designed to prevent someone else from filing a federal tax return using a taxpayer's Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number. Taxpayers who do not already have an IP PIN may request one proactively. They can obtain a PIN even if they are not required to file a federal tax return. The release includes a timing reminder for taxpayers planning to file early in 2027: request an IP PIN before the online system becomes unavailable for annual maintenance in mid-November. According to the IRS, the system generally becomes available again in mid-January. Taxpayers should protect their IP PIN and disclose it only to a trusted tax professional when they are ready to prepare and submit their federal return. The IRS said it will never call, email, text or contact taxpayers through social media to request their IP PIN. Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-reminder-take-steps-now-to-protect-tax-information