I received a 1099 nec for retiree benefits for opting out of their medical ins. Why does it show in TT as me being a self employed?.

The 1099-NEC can be entered for self-employment income and for other income that is not self-employment. 

Since the 1099-NEC you received was not for self-employment, follow these instructions so that it won't be considered self-employment income.

In your return, go to:

1. Wages & Income
2. Other Common Income
3. Select Income from a 1099-NEC
4. Enter the payer's name
5. EIN Number
6. Amount you received
7. Describe the reason for this 1099-NEC = State what it was for
8. Does one of these uncommon situations apply?
9. Click This is not money earned as an employee or self-employed individual,