For an annuity, for the question for past years about whether the total shown on the form is the amount I paid taxes on mean the "gross distribution" or "taxable amount"?

[int32tx]

I don't know how to answer a TurboTax question about past years for an annuity. It is asking if the "total amount shown in the form" is the amount I paid taxes on. I don't know which "total" on the 1099-R the TurboTax question is asking about - the gross distribution or the taxable amount.

[SteamTrain · Accepted solution]

@int32tx 

Taxable amount>......

If your box 2a has a non-zero number in it..(not blank, nor marked as undetermined), and that number is   somewhat lower than the box 1 number, due to an after-tax contribution amount that is noted in box 5...then edit that retirement form again, and when you get to the following page (below), answer it as-if the displayed edits were present  (i.e. you needed to answer YES).  

Answering YES will use the box 2a $$ amount on your for 1040.  Checking lines 5a and 5b on your form 1040, before and after entering that 1099-R, and the 5b amount should be lower than line 5a. 

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[int32tx]

Thank you so much!!  This was very helpful.