If this is not the first year then how was it done last year? Look at last the 2018 tax return and the 1099-R worksheet. Was the simplified method used to reduce the taxable amount? You do not suddenly start using the simplified method if not the first year that has a box 9b amount and blank box 2a, you use the 2018 figures for 2019.
**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.**
