is not getting paid deductible?

As an independent contractor, I performed software development work for a start-up company which barely started and died quickly. They announced there was no money and paid me less than 10% of my fee. Is this somehow deductible? It isn't exactly bad debt since the income was not declared (the whole thing took place in only a few months). Could it be included under the section for rebates, returned sales and allowances? A (forced) 90% rebate/allowance?

Thanks in advance for your help. [Yes, I was snookered by a smile and a shoe shine and yes I know it was pretty dumb. :-) ]

Sure,...take a deduction for not winning the lottery also.