REVISED questions about 1099 and refund?

REVISED questions about 1099 and refund?
He works for cash, pd weekly. Will receive a 1099 for aprox. 16000. I did not work. We are not married (15 yrs together), but have three children together. He fully supports us all with this income. (It's been a rough year, to say the least). There are no work related expenses we can claim. Is there ANY hope for a refund at all? Will it be possible that the tax credits for the kids will balance out what he will owe in unpaid taxes? Where is the best place to go to have this prepared? I have had negative experiences with our local H&R Block in the past. Thanks! He is a flooring installer, but all vehicles used are his bosses...I don't know what other expenses he could claim. Gas and all vehicle costs are paid for by his boss. They simply drive to the job site and lay the carpet/hardwood. They are then paid cash at the end of the week. They are paid a set rate daily, not hourly or by the job. I understand how the IRS would not believe a family of five lives off this amount of money, but we do. It is a very simple life, to say the least... How does an audit work? Everything he makes goes to pay living expenses (rent, electricity, water)