I am desperately trying to find any information I can, to best file my taxes this year. So, any and all information, and advice, is greatly appreciated. I will try to include as many details as possible. Thank you in advance!

I am a 28 year old female, with 2 dependents under 18 (my children). I receive a small monthly check from Veterans Affairs for a service connected disability, we are on state aid (Food Stamps only), and I am a bartender. I do not get paid my employer whatsoever. My only income is cash tips I receive the 3 days a week I work, from customers. I have kept a detailed tip diary of what I have received each time I work. And, lastly, I am divorced.

This is the first time I have ever worked for cash, and we do not have any kind of electronic system to claim tips for tax purposes. My questions are as follows:

1. Since I have kept up with all of my tips, can I just turn these in with my tax preparer? Or, should I have been taking out taxes on myself this entire time?

2. Will I qualify for a return? Every estimation I've done says I will not get one.

3. My boss says he does not supply the 1099-MISC form, and we need to handle in accordingly to each of our own needs. (Not sure what that means)

4. Overall, what should I do to ensure I'm doing this properly and legally according to the state of Tennessee.

Thank you!

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