Can I use capital improvements that I don't have receipts for the expenses to offset the capital gains?

I have owned the house for over 50 years, so documentation is scarce on many improvements. Can I use photos as evidence of capital improvements?

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Yes you can ... most people don't keep receipts religiously over 50 years however the IRS understands improvements have to be made so make notes/keep photos and keep them for 3 years in case the IRS audits the return.

if you don't have receipts how do you know their cost of the improvements? if this was your principal residence for 2 out of 5 years prior to sale, your entitled to exclude $250,000 of gain $500,000 if you are married.