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 receive 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?

You can go to the financial aid department of your daughter's school. They are well qualified to help you there.

P.S. Thanks for reminding me that I have to resubmit my FASFA soon.

No.. no... no... I am the one applying to college. It's for my freshman year in the fall. That's why the subject is called independent student. Still need help... can't ask for help at the financial aid department of MY school since I don't know who's accepted me yet.

In you case, you should have full Pell for 2007 award year, as long as you don't have education loan in default. When you fill out the FAFSA form, just honestly answer all the questions; follow the instruciton for Worksheet A, B and C, and you will know where you should put all your income resources accordingly on the FAFSA form.