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How to Fix "######" Errors in Excel Cells
Applies to: Microsoft Excel
Article Type: Troubleshooting
Last Updated: 2026-01-14
Summary
Seeing a row of hashtags (######) means Excel cannot fit the content inside the cell. It is not a calculation error.
Prerequisites
- None. These steps apply to all versions of Excel.
Instructions
1. Widen the Column (Auto-fit)
The quickest way to solve this.
- Move your mouse cursor to the line between the column headers (e.g., between A and B).
- Your cursor will turn into a double-headed arrow.
- Double-click the line.
- The column will expand to fit the text perfectly.
2. Check for Negative Dates
Excel cannot display negative dates (dates before 1900) and shows hashes instead.
- Click the cell.
- Check the value. If you subtracted
Today - Tomorrow, the result is negative. - Adjust your formula to ensure positive results for dates.
3. Change Number Format
Sometimes the format forces too many decimals.
- Right-click the cell > Format Cells.
- Select General or Number.
- Reduce decimal places to save space.
Troubleshooting
INFO
If widening the column doesn't work, ensure the text color isn't white-on-white.
| Symptom / Error | Potential Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| ##### on Date | Column too narrow | Double-click column border to Expand. |
| ##### on Time | Negative Time | Use 24h format or correct formula. |