Starting January 1, 2016, if your dependent received an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), you will need to enter this PIN on your tax return if you electronically file. The IP PIN does not need to be entered if paper filing.

According to the IRS website FAQs about the IP PIN:

Q17: Do I include my dependent's IRS issued IP PIN on my tax return?

A17: This is determined by how you file.

E-File Return: Yes. As of January 1, 2016, if you claim one or more dependents that have an IP PIN, you must enter their IP PIN on the following e-File tax forms:

• Form 1040, Individual Income Tax Return, series
• Form 2441, Child and Dependent Care Expenses
• Schedule Earned Income Credit

Your e-File return will be rejected if you fail to enter a dependent’s IP PIN.

Note: If someone can claim you on their tax return as a dependent and you have an IP PIN, you must share your IP PIN with them if they e-File.

Paper Return: No. You don’t need to enter an IP PIN for your dependent(s) when filing a paper tax return.

To enter your dependent's IP PIN:

1. From within your TaxAct return (Online or Desktop), click Federal. On smaller devices, click in the upper left-hand corner, then select Federal.
2. Click Basic Information to expand the category and then click Dependents and Other Qualifying Persons
3. Click +Add a Dependent to enter a new dependent, click Edit to review dependent information already in the return
4. On the screen titled Dependent Information, check the box next to Received IRS Notice CP01A containing an Identity Protection PIN
5. Enter the IP PIN in the field This dependent's Identity Protection PIN