If I don't have receipts for second hand furniture I bought for a rental house, is it too risky to depreciate/expense it as the landlord? It was bought off craigslist.

[ehpingree3]

Thank you!  I still have the furniture and it's 100% used for the rental property (which is only used for rental purposes).

[DianeW · Accepted solution]

If you are confident in your ability to show proof of purchase and the amount is reasonable for the condition of the furniture you should take the deduction.  

You will have a choice to deduct this as a miscellaneous expense under a special safe harbor election or depreciation.

It's best if you gather some kind of proof of purchase. If you have the ad from Craigslist, a picture of the furniture and even a confirmation of delivery to the tenants might be helpful.

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