View Video Help on Self-Select PIN Filing Method
All taxpayers filing electronically must use the Self-Select PIN method to e-file.
The IRS no longer requires or accepts Form 8453 as a signature document. The only other option is to paper file your return.
Taxpayers have the option to choose between two “shared secrets” for authentication. The Self-Select PIN signature method requires taxpayers to provide their prior year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) or the prior year PIN used to electronically sign their 2008 return.
Q. Who is eligible to use the Self-Select PIN method?
A. Most taxpayers will be able to file electronically using the Self-Select PIN method. If you (or the secondary taxpayer on the return) are under the age of 16, you must file a paper return.
Q. What is the Self-Select PIN method?
A. The Self-Select PIN (Personal Identification Number) method allows taxpayers to electronically sign their e-filed return by using a five-digit PIN as their signature.
Q. Where do I get my PIN?
A. You create your own PIN. You do not register the PIN with the IRS before filing or need to contact the IRS to get it. The five-digit PIN can be any five digits except all zeros.
Q. What is the original Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)?
A. The original AGI is the amount from your prior year originally filed return as accepted by IRS. The amount can be located on:
- Form 1040 - Line 37
- Form 1040A - Line 21
- Form 1040EZ - Line 4
Do not enter a corrected amount or the amount from an amended tax return
Q. How do I get my original AGI or PIN if I cannot locate my 2008 return?
A. If you filed with TaxACT last year you can go to
TaxACT PIN Retrieval and provide the requested information to obtain your 2008 PIN.
You can also use the IRS Electronic Filing PIN self-service system, by going to the IRS Website or you can access a touch-tone self-service system by calling 1-866-704-7388.
Provide the information listed below to obtain an Electronic Filing PIN that can be used instead of prior year AGI or self-select PIN to file electronically in 2009.
- Your SSN (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)
- Your First and Last Name
- Your date of birth
- Your Filing Status
- Your complete mailing address (as it appeared on your 2008 tax return)
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