If you don't have receipts, keep as much alternative documentation as possible to support your tax deductions. Some examples include: Canceled checks or bank statements. Credit card statements.
Can you claim deductions if you don't have receipts? Yes, you can claim deductions if you don't have receipts. For general expenses, you'll need an alternative record showing the transaction date, amount, and purpose.
You generally must have documentary evidence, such as receipts, canceled checks, or bills, to support your expenses. Additional evidence is required for travel, entertainment, gifts, and auto expenses.
Even if your deduction for work expenses is more than $300, you can still claim a deduction for laundry expenses up to $150 without written evidence. However, the $300 limit for work expenses still applies, this exception doesn't increase the $300 limit for work expenses to $450.
Technically, if you do not have these records, the IRS can disallow your deduction. Practically, IRS auditors may allow some reconstruction of these expenses if it seems reasonable. Learn more about handling an IRS audit.
Proof can be provided in the form of an official receipt or invoice from the receiving qualified charitable organization, but it can also be provided via credit card statements or other financial records detailing the donation.
Whether you lost your receipts, they were damaged, or you simply don't have them, there are several documents you could use as evidence to answer an IRS audit when you have no receipts: Calendar logs of meetings/travel/daily tasks. Canceled checks. Credit/debit card statements.
If you don't have receipts, keep as much alternative documentation as possible to support your tax deductions. Some examples include: Canceled checks or bank statements. Credit card statements.