The same number in box 1 and box 2a on CSF-1099-R after simplified method calculation?

[Linda21001]

I have two 1099-Rs.  One CSA, one CSF.  On both box 1 (gross distribution) is filled in, box 2 (taxable amount) is blank.

Entering the first one and going through the calculations of the simplified method (showing a previous tax-free amount), when I review to double check it, box 2a is still blank.

Entering the second one and again going through the calculations (and also showing a previous tax-free amount), when I review that one, box 2a has the same amount as box 1, showing the entire amount taxable.  Even after I delete the entry in box 2a, after the calculations, the box 1 amount is in there.

One is an annuity, the other is a survivor annuity. 

Why is the entire amount in box 1 now the taxable amount (box 2a) even after the calculation? 

I haven't noticed this (above) in previous years. 

[ThomasM125]

I'm not aware of a situation where the amount in box 2(a) on your Form 1099-R entry would be automatically filled in after you left it blank. It is more likely you entered the number in that field when you entered the Form 1099-R. If the amount in box 2(a) is blank, the amount of your distribution in box 1 may or may not be taxable, that would depend on the entries in box 7 and your answers to the questions in TurboTax after you entered the Form 1099-R.

To test my hypothesis, I suggest you delete the Form 1099-R and re-enter it.

[Linda21001]

Thanks, ThomasM125.  I filed before I received your reply and have just gotten back to this.  I did as you suggested...deleted the form and then added it back.  WOW!!!  This was after updates and things were different!  After adding the form back, this annuity was called a retirement account.  For the simplified method calculations, none of the information (specifically amount recovered tax free to date) transferred from last year.  In addition, on the 1099-R, box 9b (Total Employee Contributions) was also UNKNOWN when that box was filled in in the past and the number doesn't change.  I need to look into this.  I appreciate your reply and your suggestion.  It was eye opening and more than baffling!!