The 1099 NEC you received for $3600.00 represents the total annual income for 12 months. Should they report that income to the IRS, as well they should, you are required by rule to declare the full amount as well. For whatever reason if the IRS determines you're trying to hide income, their position is not kind. Better to avoid that problem altogether, and report the income. Plus, you get milage write-offs you don't get with a W-2.
I certainly hope this clears up things a bit to make the best decision for yourself in the future.
