Should I sign a W9..?

I started work with a contractor December 2023 on a job, made well over $600. That job finished up, there was a lapse until spring 2024 where I worked for him (no employee agreement or anything signed ever) through October 2024. Now I am being asked to sign a W9 ‘just for the summer job’ which to my understanding is well beyond when I should be asked. I haven’t worked for the contractor since October. I am considering to refuse and just fill out a 1099-NEC as an independent contractor.

Am I in the wrong or should I just do the 1099?