Tax Gurus I need your help?

At the very least, you mother will need to file a Schedule C (or C-EZ) to report her "business" income (business meaning that she is self employed), Schedule SE to calculate the self employment tax (sort of like Social Security and Medicare taxes but in this case she is paying both the employer's portion and the employee's portion. People who are self employed must use the regular Form 1040, not either of the shorter versions.

If her husband itemizes his deductions, then she must do the same, so she should at least review Schedule A. She would be able to deduct any charitable contributions, any state or local taxes she paid, her portion of any mortgage interest, etc.

It really sounds like she has to see a tax professional. A mistake on her tax return would cost her a lot more than a tax pro would charge to do it right.

I hope this helps.

Gary

Okay, even before I start asking questions, she needs professional help. Now, with that said there are several places to get free help with filing tax returns including the local IRS office.

She can't file a 1040A she has to file a 1040 and a Schedule C (or C-EZ) and more than likely a Schedule SE as well.

Are your parent's separated? Did they live together at all on or after July 1st of 2011? And, many other questions need to be answered before a correct return can be filed.

Oh and Kudos to you for learning something about taxation. Did you know that if you want to learn more Jackson Hewitt offers free classes (not sure if the others are free or not). H&R Block use to have free classes but you pay for the books. I don't have a clue what Liberty does. And there is no obligation on your part. Everyone should have a basic grasp of how the tax system works.

Hope this helps.

For the 1099's, she has to file 1040, with schedule C or C-EZ, and schedule SE.

A VITA or TCE site will help her at no charge. See http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=10762...

Is there some reason she and her spouse are filing separately?

If they are legally married and not legally separated, then your dad cannot claim your mom as a dependent. And you cannot claim anyone (except your child) that made over $3700.

Your mom and dad can fill out a married filing joint return and file together. But your dad can not claim your mom as a dependent.

Her income will have to go on the joint return if they do it that way.. She will need to fill out one or more schedule C business forms. She will need to pay self-employment tax.

Go to aarp.org and find a Tax-aide site. Or go to irs.gov and look for a vita site. They can help her for free.

Your father cannot CLAIM your mother. With 1099s, your mother is subject to self-employment tax, which is why no taxes were withheld. Get her some professional help.

Mom needs to use a professional. 1040, schedule C-EZ and schedule SE. Possibly 8812.

Is there a reason she isn't filing jointly with your dad?

Your mom can get help from a VITA volunteer:

http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=10762...