Fix common spreadsheet errors

If you see unexpected errors in your SheetsFinance spreadsheet, check the symptoms and fixes below. Most issues are resolved by adjusting sheet space, refreshing the add-on, or correcting how a template was copied.

#REF! or #SPILL! errors

Symptom: A SheetsFinance function returns #REF! with the message "Array result was not expanded because it would overwrite data in XX".

Cause: The function is trying to output an array that spans multiple rows and columns, but one or more cells in that range already contain data.

Fix: Clear the cells in the target range before entering the function. Make sure the area below and to the right of the formula is empty so the array can expand.

#NAME? errors when copying templates

Symptom: After copying a Google Sheets template, functions show #NAME? instead of data.

Cause: The add-on functions have not been authorized in the new spreadsheet.

Fix: Open the copied spreadsheet and trigger any SheetsFinance function manually (for example, type =SF("AAPL") in a cell). Accept the authorization prompt so the add-on is enabled for that document. After authorization, refresh the sheet and the template formulas will resolve.

Missing assets in Symbol Search

Symptom: A ticker or asset you expect does not appear in Symbol Search.

Cause: The asset may not be covered in the current data set, or the search query may need an exact ticker match.

Fix: Try entering the exact ticker symbol directly into the function instead of relying on Symbol Search. If the symbol is still unavailable, check that the asset class is supported by your plan. If you believe the asset should be available, verify the ticker spelling and exchange suffix.

Performance slowdowns

Symptom: Spreadsheets with many SheetsFinance functions calculate slowly or appear to hang.

Cause: Each function makes a live data request. Large arrays, many symbols, or frequent refreshes can overwhelm the sheet and the API.

Fix:

• Reduce the number of live formulas by converting static results to values where you do not need real-time updates.

• Use metric chaining to return only the columns you need instead of "all".

• Break large portfolios into separate sheets rather than one massive array.

Brokerage data delays

Symptom: Brokerage holdings, orders, or balances do not match what you see in your broker app.

Cause: Some brokerage providers enforce data delays (for example, up to 24 hours) before the data is available via third-party connections.

Fix: Check the supported broker list for the specific delay policy of your broker. This is a provider restriction, not a SheetsFinance issue. If the delay exceeds the documented range, verify that your account is fully connected and re-authenticate if necessary.