I have a schedule K-1 for an s corp and have line 5b qualified dividends of $36 but turbotax says "Box 5b should not be greater than the total dividend amount". help !!

You need to enter an amount of at least $36 for box 5a.  If that is blank on your K-1, or less than $36, enter $36 anyway.

the question is should 5b be on 5a and then 5b s/b blank?  only the preparer can answer.