Can I deduct home and personal property losses that were the result of a fire caused by a windstorm in WA State back in November?

[sam-avaiusini]

Date of loss was 11/20/2024. Home burned and lost 95% of all personal property inside the house.

[SabrinaD2]

You may be able to claim losses from a fire caused by a windstorm in November 2024. Here are the general parameters: 

• Federal Disaster Declaration: First, check if the windstorm was declared a federal disaster. See Link below.
• You need to itemize your deductions on your tax return to claim these losses
• Only the portion of your losses that weren't covered by insurance or other reimbursements can be deducted
• Keep detailed records of the damage, including photos, repair estimates, and insurance claims.

You can verify if your property is in a federally declared disaster area by visiting the FEMA Washington State page

Additional information: Uncle Sam to the Rescue