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TODAY

The TODAY function returns the current date in the default timezone of the spreadsheet. The date is updated each time the spreadsheet is opened. This function is commonly used to calculate the current age or to track the number of days since a certain event, among other things.

Usage

Use the TODAY formula with the syntax shown below:

=TODAY()

Examples

Here are a few example use cases that explain how to use the TODAY formula in Google Sheets.

Calculate age

By subtracting the birthdate from the current date returned by the TODAY function, you can calculate a person's age. For example, =YEAR(TODAY())-YEAR(B2) where B2 contains the birthdate.

Track number of days since event

By subtracting the date of an event from the current date returned by the TODAY function, you can track the number of days that have passed since the event. For example, =TODAY()-B2 where B2 contains the date of the event.

Common Mistakes

TODAY not working? Here are some common mistakes people make when using the TODAY Google Sheets Formula:

Formatting issues

The TODAY formula returns a date that updates automatically to the current date. However, if the cell is not formatted as a date, it may display a number instead of a date. To fix this, simply format the cell as a date.

Using TODAY incorrectly

The TODAY function should not be used in a cell reference or within another function. It should only be used on its own to return the current date.

Time zone issues

The TODAY function returns the current date based on the time zone of your device. If you are collaborating with someone in a different time zone, the date may appear differently for them. It's important to keep this in mind when working with the TODAY function.

Related Formulas

The following functions are similar to TODAY or are often used with it in a formula:

  • NOW

    The NOW function in Google Sheets returns the current date and time, updated in real-time. This function is commonly used to create timestamps for data entry or to track changes made to a sheet.

  • DATEDIF

    The DATEDIF function in Google Sheets calculates the difference between two dates using a specified unit of measurement. This function is commonly used to calculate the length of time between two dates, such as the number of days, months, or years. The function is particularly useful when working with financial or project planning data.

Learn More

You can learn more about the TODAY Google Sheets function on Google Support.