This is such a frustrating situation but unfortunately very common in the restaurant industry. What you're describing - scheduled shifts, wearing their uniform, manager setting your schedule - these are all clear indicators that you're an employee, not an independent contractor. The key difference is control. As an employee, your employer controls when, where, and how you work. Independent contractors have more autonomy over their work methods and schedules. From your description, you're definitely being treated as an employee. Here's what I'd recommend: First, try the gentle approach with your employer. Many small business owners genuinely don't understand the classification rules. If that doesn't work, you can file Form SS-8 to get an official IRS determination, though be aware this can take months and might create tension with your employer. In the meantime, if you have to file with the 1099-NEC, make sure you're claiming all possible business expenses to reduce your tax burden. And remember, even if classified as self-employed, you likely won't owe taxes on your $8,400 earnings since the standard deduction for 2024 is $14,600. The main concern would be the self-employment tax portion. Don't let this stress you out too much - there are solutions, and you have rights as a worker!

I'm glad to see so many helpful responses here! As someone who works in tax preparation, I want to emphasize a few key points for Mason and anyone else dealing with this situation. The IRS uses a "20-factor test" to determine worker classification, and from what you've described, you clearly meet the employee criteria. The most important factors in your case are: your employer sets your schedule, provides training on procedures, requires you to work on their premises, and you're integrated into their business operations. One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is that misclassified employees can actually recover back taxes they shouldn't have paid. If you end up filing as self-employed this year but later get reclassified as an employee, you can file Form 8919 to get credit for the employer portion of Social Security and Medicare taxes you overpaid. Also, for your immediate tax filing needs: most free tax software (like IRS Free File) can handle 1099-NEC forms and will automatically calculate your self-employment tax. Don't let the complexity scare you - the software walks you through everything step by step. Keep all documentation about your work arrangement (schedules, uniform requirements, any written policies) in case you need them for the SS-8 process. And remember, you're not doing anything wrong by ensuring proper tax classification - you're just following the law.

One thing nobody mentioned yet - track your hot bags, coolers, and any other special equipment you buy for deliveries! I spent about $85 on premium insulated bags and a drink carrier that I use exclusively for DoorDash and was able to deduct the full amount. Also car chargers, phone mounts, etc. Small stuff adds up!

Great thread everyone! As someone who's been doing gig work for a few years now, I wanted to add that you should also consider deducting any car maintenance that's directly related to your delivery work. Things like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements can be partially deductible based on the percentage of miles you drive for business versus personal use. For example, if 40% of your annual mileage is for DoorDash, you can potentially deduct 40% of those maintenance costs. Just make sure you're keeping detailed records - I use a simple spreadsheet to track my business miles versus total miles each month. Also, if you choose to deduct actual car expenses instead of using the standard mileage rate, you can't switch back and forth - you have to pick one method and stick with it for that vehicle. The key with all these deductions is documentation. Take photos of receipts, keep a mileage log, and when in doubt, consult with a tax professional who understands gig economy work!

Don't forget that your K-1 might include DIFFERENT types of income and losses, not just investment income! Some K-1 income could actually be considered earned income if it's from a partnership where you materially participated. The tax code treats different boxes on the K-1 differently. For example, Box 1 (ordinary business income) from an S-corporation or partnership where you materially participate could count as earned income for EITC purposes. But passive investment income like interest, dividends, or capital gains on your K-1 wouldn't count as earned income, only toward the investment income limit.

This is exactly the kind of complex tax situation where getting professional guidance is smart! From what you've described, your $65K in 1099 consulting income would definitely count as earned income for EITC purposes. The key things to focus on before your appointment: 1. **Business deductions matter**: Your net self-employment income (after Schedule C expenses) is what counts for EITC, not the gross $65K on your 1099. Track every legitimate business expense. 2. **K-1 details are crucial**: Not all K-1 items are treated the same. If any portion represents active business income where you materially participated, that could count as earned income too. Passive losses generally don't help with EITC qualification. 3. **Investment income limit**: Make sure your total investment income (from K-1 and other sources) stays under the $11,000ish limit for EITC eligibility. 4. **Income phaseout**: With head of household and two kids, you're right around the upper income limits for EITC, so every deduction counts. Come prepared with your K-1 details and a list of all business expenses. Your tax pro will need to see exactly what's in each box of the K-1 to determine how it affects your EITC eligibility. Good luck!

Just filed with TurboTax last week and can confirm it's First Century Bank now. The transition was pretty smooth but you're right that their tracking interface isn't as user-friendly as TPG was. One thing I noticed is the account numbers are longer now and the deposit notifications come through differently. Make sure to update any auto-save info you might have from previous years since the routing numbers changed too.

Been using TurboTax for years and honestly the bank switching is getting annoying. Every year it's something new - first TPG, now First Century Bank. At least they could give us better heads up about these changes. I just want my refund to show up where I expect it without having to hunt down new routing numbers and tracking systems every tax season 😤

Something important to add here - make sure the work is AGE APPROPRIATE!!! I got audited because I claimed my 12yo was doing "consulting" for my business. The IRS agent basically laughed at the idea a 12yo could provide consulting services. Stick to tasks that make sense for their age like filing, cleaning, simple computer work, etc.

Quick tip from someone who's been doing this for years: open a Roth IRA for your kids with their earned income! Since they likely won't owe taxes on the income (if under the standard deduction), they're essentially getting tax-free money going in AND tax-free growth and withdrawal later. It's one of the best financial head starts you can give them.