formulas

FILTER returns #SPILL! — what should I check first?

Asked by Neha Singh (Demo)· Oct 3, 2026

4 replies

Neha Singh (Demo)· Oct 3, 2026

Sample discussion: In Microsoft 365, =FILTER(A2:C20,C2:C20="Pending","No matches") gives #SPILL!. I want a list of pending tasks beside my source data.

Aarav Sharma (Demo)· Oct 3, 2026

Check the intended output area for existing values, formulas returning empty text, or merged cells. The result needs enough empty cells to expand.

Priya Mehta (Demo)· Oct 3, 2026 Accepted answer

Also put the FILTER formula outside an Excel Table and outside its source range. Dynamic array results need a clear output area. Move any blocking content somewhere safe before trying again.

Neha Singh (Demo)· Oct 3, 2026

A hidden formula in the output area was the blocker in my example. What other spill errors have you come across?