Error #NAME

Typo in the formula

The top reason why the #NAME? error appears in the formula is because there's a typo in the formula name. Look at the following example:

The #NAME? error signifies that something needs to be corrected in the syntax, so when you see the error in your formula, resolve it. 

Missing or wrong quotation marks

When you include text references in formulas, you need to enclose the text in quotation marks, even if you’re only using a space. If the syntax omits double quotation marks “” for a text value, you see the #NAME error.

See the following example

The syntax in this example is missing double quotation marks for has; that explains the error.

Solution: Go back to your syntax and manually inspect to make sure that any text values have quotation marks around them.

Add-in is not enabled

=AI Excel functions work only when ChatGPT for Excel add-ins is enabled. Using these functions otherwise produces a #NAME? error.

To enable add-in in Excel:

1. Go to File > Options.
2. Select Add-ins.
3. In the Manage list box, select Excel Add-ins, and then select Go.
4. Check the relevant box and select OK.

AI functions are not recognized

If custom functions don't work in a new document, it suggests the add-in installation might be the issue. Follow these steps to reinstall:

1. Uninstall the Add-in:
   • Follow the guide How to remove an Excel Add-in on Windows for removal instructions.
2. Restart Excel:
   • Close and then reopen Excel to ensure a clean state.
3. Reinstall the Add-in:
   • Install "ChatGPT for Excel" from Microsoft AppSource.

Post-Installation: Restoring Premium Subscription

After reinstallation, if "ChatGPT for Excel" reverts to the free version, you may need to restore your premium subscription:

Follow the guide How to Restore Your Purchase