I came across a discussion on another site which, if correct, might be an argument for not using the simplified method. Apparently, the simplified election does not allow for carryback/carryover of the excess limit. Accordingly, the absence of carryback/carryforward of FTC on prior returns where FTCAMT was relevant may also help identify whether you have used the simplified method previously. (Comparing the two Line 17s on the two F1116s is probably easiest though.) Likewise, more than happy to be corrected - I am definitly no expert.
Here is that discussion: https://talk.uk-yankee.com/index.php?topic=96044.0
