This rejection occurs when the Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) entered for your dependent or qualifying person is missing or does not match IRS records. The correct IP PIN must be entered before the return can be resubmitted.
Here’s an overview of what we’ll cover—click any section to jump ahead.
- Error message:
- Why This Happens
- How to Resolve Step by Step
- Step 1: Enter Your Dependent’s IP PIN
- Step 2: Confirm with Support
- What You Need to Know
- Still Need Help?
- RECOMMENDED TOPICS
Error message:
‘The Dependent/Qualifying Person Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) provided on the return is not valid.’
Why This Happens
The IRS may issue an IP PIN to dependents as part of its identity protection program.
This rejection typically occurs because:
- The dependent’s IP PIN was entered incorrectly
- The IP PIN was not entered
- A new IP PIN was issued this year and the old one was used
- The dependent is enrolled in the IRS Identity Protection program
An IP PIN is a 6-digit number issued annually by the IRS.
How to Resolve Step by Step
Step 1: Enter Your Dependent’s IP PIN
- Log in to your MyExpatTaxes account.
- Go to the SSN section.
- Check the box: “I have an Identity Protection issued by IRS.”
- Enter your dependent’s 6-digit IP PIN.
- Click Save.
Step 2: Confirm with Support
After updating the information, please contact our support team so we can resubmit your return.
For this type of rejection, we can only resubmit once you confirm that the IP PIN entered is correct.
What You Need to Know
- A new IP PIN is issued each year — last year’s PIN will not work.
- If you do not have your dependent’s IP PIN, you must retrieve it directly from the IRS.
- Without the correct IP PIN, the IRS will continue to reject the return.
- You can generate or retrieve an IP PIN here:
Still Need Help?
If you’re unsure whether your dependent was issued an IP PIN or need assistance retrieving it, please contact our support team, and we’ll guide you through the next steps.
