Can I count my 1099-MISC as separate income, like I did last year? TT is trying to list it on a schedule C instead.

To enter a Form 1099-MISC that is not for self-employment -

Click on Federal (Personal using Home & Business)
Click on Wages & Income (Personal Income using Home & Business)
Scroll down to Other Common Income
On Form 1099-MISC, click the start or update button (TTO)

Or enter 1099-misc in the Search box located in the upper right of the program screen.  Click on Jump to 1099-misc

On the screen Did you get a 1099-MISC?, click on Yes
On the screen Let's get the info from your 1099-MISC, enter the amount received in box 3 and continue
On the screen Describe the reason for this 1099-MISC, enter a reason and Continue
On the screen Does one of these uncommon situations apply? - Select None of these apply and continue
On the screen Did the (reason) involve work that's like (your name) main job - Select No and continue
On the screen How often did (your name) get income for (reason) - Select 2024 and continue
On the screen Did the (reason) involve an intent to earn money? - Select No and continue

The amount entered from the Form 1099-MISC will be entered on Schedule 1 Line 8z
The total from Schedule 1 Part I Line 10 flows to Form 1040 Line 8