I tried for two days to do the update on my own but finally ended up calling customer supportr 800-446-8848. and they answered right away. 

This issue indeed was the update. Here are the steps they walked me through remote access.

1. Close QB. Right click on the QB app and run as administrator. (this is very important)

2. Log In. Go to Help >  Update Quickbooks Desktop

3. Click on the Update Now tab and select "Reset Update".  Make sure all update items are checked as well. Click on Get Updates.  Once that completes, Close QB.

4. Restart QB. 

Then you should be able to go to File>Printer Forms>1099 NEC and make sure to map vendor payment accounts by selecting NEC Box 1. 

That should do you. You can now print 3 to a page. Good luck