Unable to e-file my New York State IT-201

[Claude-B]

My updated TurboTax Deluxe 2025 won't let me electronically file the New State IT-201 because a review error  states: "Form 1099-R : Box 14a For electronic filing, New York State withholdings can not be greater than or equal to gross distribution or state distribution."   On my 1099-R, the Gross Distribution (Box 1) is far greater than the amount in the State tax withheld entry (Box 14, there is no Box 14a) and the State distribution (Box 16) is blank on the form. I believe this is a program error. If I blank the form's Box "14a", I will not get my entitled refund. If I leave it alone, I can not file.  New York State requires e-file only, so paper submission is out. How do I get this issue resolved?

[AmyC]

You have a space or a decimal or something in that box making the program think box 14 is bigger than it is. Follow these steps:

1. You do want to make box 14 blank to start this process. 
2. Be certain there is not a trace of a blank, dot, anything in box 14. 
3. Save the form.
4. Log out of your program
5. A full or corrupted cache can cause problems in TurboTax, sometimes you need to clear your cache (that is, remove these temporary files).

Online version:

1. Delete the form/ worksheet- if possible, see How to Delete  
2. Log out of your return and try one or more of the following:
   • Don't use Internet Explorer.
   • Clear cache and cookies,
   • Sign in using a different browser.
   • Sign in using a different device.
3. Log back into your return.
   • Enter the box 14 information again.

Desktop version: 

1. Delete the form
2. Save your return while closing the program.
3. Update the program
4. Open
5. Enter the box 14 information again.

[Claude-B]

Thank you for promptly replying  to my query.  I followed the instructions provided.  The form I deleted was the 1099-R form.  I re-entered the 1099-R information, via the TurboTax 2025 desktop program process.  I entered all the information requested by TurboTax from my 1099-R paper form.  Upon running the review process, I got the same results I received as explained in my initial query.  Do you have any other suggestion(s) that will rectify this situation.  

[AnnetteB6 · Accepted solution]

If you are getting an error message with regard to needing an amount in Form 1099-R box 16 because there were state withholdings reported, enter the amount reported in box 1 of your Form 1099-R for the state distribution amount box 16.  

This should correct the error you are seeing without affecting the actual tax return.

@Claude-B 

[Claude-B]

Again, thanks for your help.  Your suggestion to enter the gross amount in Box 1. into Box 16. of my 1099-R worked.  I have successfully submitted my State tax form.  However, "the proof in the pudding" is when I receive a successful acceptance by my state.   I have a reasonable confidence that it will be accepted.