Do I have to report loss due to fire to IRS or is it only if I wish to claim? It's a lot of work itemizing all possessions when my estimate is that the net loss will be 0

[petereadman]

We suffered a bad apartment fire and lost almost everything we owned. But, when calculating a rough FMV for everything, the difference between that and the insurance payout is negligible. I'm trying to figure out if it's worth the effort itemizing everything on the tax return if I'm not going to end up with any deduction.

[CherylW · Accepted solution]

No, you don't have to report a loss.  It's very difficult to get any money back, because of limitations.  If you have insurance, it's almost impossible.

[petereadman]

Thanks - that's what I was realizing. Don't think I'll bother!