This past year I have worked as a private caregiver for a couple of different families. This has been strictly through word of mouth and under the table. I was just doing what I had to do to make money and wasn't even thinking how it would effect me at tax time. I have been paid by personal check and I don't think the families are planning on reporting it. I'm not sure what I should do now. I know exactly what I have brought home as my check is the same every week. I was reading that I shouldn't file as self employed but rather as a household employee. I have always worked at jobs that provided a w-2 and always claim earned income credit when I file. The bulk of my refund is earned income credit and I'm afraid I won't have that to rely on this year because of my "under the table" jobs. How do I go about all of this? I have nothing to hide and have no issue giving the names of the people I have worked for. I want to report my income and do it correctly. But what if the families don't do their part? I'm totally lost and don't know where to start. I've never been in this position before and I'm afraid of being in some kind of trouble with the IRS. Does anyone have any experience with this situation or advice?
