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How Do I Fix #REF! Errors in Excel?
Last Updated: June 2026
Quick Answer
A #REF! error means a formula is referring to a cell, row, column, or worksheet that no longer exists.
Most Common Causes
- Deleted rows
- Deleted columns
- Deleted worksheets
- Broken external references
Example
If this formula exists:
=A1+B1
and column B is deleted, Excel may return:
=A1+#REF!
How to Fix It
- Locate the missing reference.
- Restore the deleted row or column if possible.
- Update the formula to point to the correct location.
