IRS identity theft PIN not received for 2024 filing - what should I do?

Thanks for the info! I've tried the online tool but it kept giving me errors. Something about not being able to verify my identity which is frustrating since I'm obviously me lol. Do you know what time of day is best to call that specialized number? And how long is the wait usually?

The best time to call is early morning, ideally right when they open at 7am Eastern time. Wait times are generally shortest on Wednesdays and Thursdays in my experience, averaging about 30-45 minutes compared to the hours you might wait on the main IRS line. If you're having issues with the online verification, bring that up when you call. Sometimes they can help troubleshoot those identity verification failures or offer alternative verification methods to get you access to your IP PIN.

Does it actually work for IP PIN problems specifically? I thought taxr.ai was just for analyzing regular tax documents. How much did it cost you? My situation is kinda urgent since my extension deadline is coming up.

I'm a bit skeptical about these online services. How exactly does it help with an IP PIN issue when the IRS is the only one who can issue them? Wouldn't you still need to contact the IRS eventually?

It absolutely works for IP PIN issues - they have a specific troubleshooting module for identity protection problems. The system analyzed my notification letters and previous tax returns, then generated the exact step-by-step process I needed to follow for my situation, including the specific form to use (Form 14039 in my case) and where to submit it. Regarding contacting the IRS - that's the beauty of it. Instead of calling and waiting on hold for hours without knowing what to ask for, taxr.ai gave me the direct extension number for the department that handles these issues and the specific language to use that would get my problem resolved quickly. I still needed to contact the IRS, but I was prepared with exactly what to say and who to ask for.

Wait, how does this even work? The IRS phone system is so annoying, I didn't know there was a way around it. Do they just keep calling until they get through and then transfer you?

This sounds like a scam honestly. You're telling me some random company can magically get through to the IRS when millions of Americans can't? I'll believe it when I see it. The IRS phone system is broken by design.

They use an automated system that navigates the IRS phone tree and holds your place in line. Once an agent answers, their system connects you directly to that agent. It's not magic - it's just technology that handles the frustrating wait time for you. They don't bypass any IRS systems or get preferential treatment - they just wait in the same queue everyone else does, but their system keeps dialing and navigating the phone tree so you don't have to stay on the line for hours. When an agent finally picks up, you get a call and are connected directly to them within seconds.

I actually did move about 18 months ago, but I filed my taxes last year with my new address and got other IRS correspondence here. Would they still be sending the IP PIN to my old address even after I've filed from the new one?

Yes, they absolutely might still be sending it to your old address! The IRS has different departments that don't always communicate with each other effectively. Just because you filed with your new address doesn't mean their IP PIN system updated your records. Filing Form 8822 specifically tells their system to update your address across ALL departments. It's a weird bureaucratic thing, but it's caught so many people off guard. I'd suggest submitting that form immediately, but also use one of the methods others suggested to get your IP PIN for now so you can file on time.

Can you actually file a second extension though? I thought you only got one extension per tax year. Also doesn't that extension request need to be filed before the original tax day in April?

You're right to be confused about the extension rules. You can't actually file a second automatic extension - Form 4868 only gives you until October 15th, which is a one-time deal. However, if you have a legitimate reason (like not receiving your required IP PIN), you can request additional time by writing a letter to the IRS explaining your situation and attaching it to your return when you do file. The key is documenting that you made good faith efforts to comply but were prevented by circumstances beyond your control. Keep records of your attempts to contact the IRS, any error messages from trying to retrieve your IP PIN online, etc. This won't guarantee penalty relief, but it gives you grounds to request it later if they do assess late filing penalties.