Is the insurance amount in box 5 on the 1099-R?
If this was not the first year of receiving the pension then whether you use the simplified method or box 2a amount depends on what method was used in 2019 and if there is a non-taxable "basis" in the plan. You should not change methods year to year. You get the information to enter from the 2019 simplified method worksheet.
The general method would not be used for this type of pension.
**Disclaimer: This post is for discussion purposes only and is NOT tax advice. The author takes no responsibility for the accuracy of any information in this post.**
