Hi, I am filing the fafsa and css profile for financial aid at the turn of the year as an independent student because I provide for more than half of my child's support. I have never filed any tax forms though and am completely lost on the subject. I know(I think I know?) I don't need to file income taxes since I made a total income of about $6,100 in 2006. I'm not quite sure how to prove my income on these forms since they're asking for past tax records. I only worked at an "actual" job for about a month in 2006 and the rest of my income I acquired by selling random things at flea markets and snacks at school (which surprisingly turns a decent amount for the amount of work put in). I also recieve food stamps, medical card, and WIC for both my daughter and I. I'm not quite sure how to go about all of this. If someone could help by responding quickly it would be greatly appriciated since I want to finish as soon after the new year as possible.

thanks in advance.

ps. should i enlist the help of a tax agent?

Lola:

If your total income is only $6,100, you are not required to file a tax return. However, if you are supporting a child, you may want to at least prepare a return on a tax website (I recommend File Taxes Online - Do Taxes FREE - File Taxes With TaxACT (http://www.TaxAct.com)) to see if you qualify for the Earned Income Credit.

As for the rest, please contact me at dpmtax@<hidden> for detailed advice.