How do I proceed in turbo tax with a blank in box 16 of a 1099-R? It was verified with the bank that it should be blank, but turbotax is not allowing it.

If there are no state taxes withheld in box 14 of the Form 1099-R then leave boxes 14, 15 and 16 blank (empty)

If there is an amount in box 14 and box 15 has a state payer's ID entered, then use the amount in box 1 for the amount in box 16.

Thank you.  State taxes were held out. The taxable amount (box 2a) is different from the gross distribution (box 1) Does that change anything?

No.  The box 2a is the taxable amount that is entered on your federal tax return and it flows to your state return.

The box 1 amount is the gross amount distributed and can be entered in box 16.

Ok. Thank you.