Q. I did not file my 1098-T last year. Did I need to file it in the first place?
A. No. The 1098-T is only an informational document. The numbers on it are not required to be entered onto your tax return.
Q. I did not file my 1098-T last year. Do I need to file an amended return to reflect this?
A. Maybe or more likely, your parents may want to file an amended return.
The 1098-T is only an informational document. The numbers on it are not required to be entered onto your tax return. However receipt of a 1098-T frequently means your parents (sometime you) are eligible for a tuition credit or possibly you have taxable scholarship income.
Since you indicate that you have student loans, it's unlikely that you also have taxable scholarship, so that's (probably) out. Tuition and other qualified expenses (fees, books and even a required computer), paid with loan money is eligible for a tuition credit of up to $2500 ($1000 of which is refundable). That's why your parents should file an amended return. If you are not a dependent, there are some limitations on students, under 24, claiming the credit.
