The total value of your IRAs is needed because you took a distribution from your account and the Form 1099-R probably indicates that the 'taxable amount cannot be determined' or you indicated that there had been non-deductible contributions to the IRA in the past.
When you have basis in nondeductible traditional IRA contributions, the year-end value of your traditional IRAs is necessary to accurately prepare Form 8606 to determine the taxable amount of a traditional IRA distribution (reported on your 1099-R). Until the value is entered, TurboTax assumes a $0 year end value and the calculation produces an inaccurately low taxable amount.
Here's more info on Why does IRA Basis Increase Tax?
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