The school paid you a flat sum and you did not pay any Medicare, social security, federal or state tax on your income. The IRS collects the FICA taxes through the self-employment tax. So if you owe FICA taxes, you must file as a business to pay the taxes.
See Hobby or a Business. to start your quest. If the school paid you on a 1099-NEC like a contractor, you may have some business income. Otherwise, you may be able to not pay the FICA taxes and claim it as hobby income.
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