How do I turn on automatic tab in Word 2010?

It was working then it stopped. I've tried going to file, options, proofing, autocorrect options, autoformat as you type, and the box to tab at the beginning of the paragraph is checked. Any ideas? I'm stumped. I'm a novelist and I need to finish my project. I have to hand my manuscript in to publisher with no tabs, only autoformat. PLEASE HELP!