What is the IRS CAP program?
Sarah Duran
Published Apr 13, 2026
Overview. The Compliance Assurance Process (CAP) was developed by the Large Business and International (LB&I) Division to improve the federal tax compliance of large corporate taxpayers by employing real-time issue resolution tools and techniques.
How much can a business make before taxes?
As a sole proprietor or independent contractor, anything you earn about and beyond $400 is considered taxable small business income, according to Fresh Books.
Is there a cap on tax returns?
Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, individual taxpayers can deduct a maximum of $10,000 in state and local income taxes on their federal income tax return. High-tax states have tried to find a way around the cap since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was enacted in 2017.
Is there a cap on business expense deductions?
Although there is no limit to the amount of business deductions you can take, certain deductions have limits. If you are a business employee, you can only deduct up to 50 percent of the cost of your business meals in most situations.
Does the IRS have a materiality threshold?
Within the CAP program, materiality thresholds are mutually agreed upon amounts that are used as a guide for both the IRS and the taxpayer in determining which issues and transactions to review. There are separate thresholds for permanent and timing items and tax credits.
What is a cap audit?
The CAP is a program developed by the Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) that assesses compliance with all aspects of the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) and Civil Service Reform Act (CSRA.) Of note, there is currently an I-CAP (International Compliance Audit Program) in place as well.
What is an IRS CAF number?
A CAF number is a unique nine-digit identification number and is assigned the first time you file a third party authorization with IRS. A letter is sent to you informing you of your assigned CAF number. Use your assigned CAF number on all future authorizations.
How do I prepare for cap inspection?
5 tips for surviving a CAP inspection
- Know Your Checklists. One of the most important steps in preparing for a CAP inspection is to make sure you are using the correct version of the CAP checklists.
- Revisit the Past.
- Organize Stuff and Staff.
- Remain Calm.
- Be Present and Accountable.
What is CAP compliance?
Large Business and International (LB&I) Division developed the Compliance Assurance Process (CAP) to improve the federal tax compliance of large corporate taxpayers. In CAP, the IRS and taxpayer work together to achieve tax compliance by resolving issues prior to the filing of the tax return.