What it does
TODAY returns the current date. NOW returns the current date and time.
Syntax or pattern
=TODAY() / =NOW()✅
5 practical examples
1
Show today’s date
Display the current date.
=TODAY()Updates when the workbook recalculates.
2
Calculate days overdue
Compare a due date to today.
=TODAY()-A2Positive values mean days since the date.
3
Flag overdue tasks
Mark items past due.
=IF(A2<TODAY(),"Overdue","OK")Useful for task trackers.
4
Timestamp report refresh
Show current date and time.
=NOW()NOW includes time.
5
Age from birth date
Estimate age in years.
=DATEDIF(A2,TODAY(),"Y")DATEDIF gives whole years.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Check whether dates are real Excel dates, not text.
- Be careful with weekends, holidays and time portions.
- Explain whether a result counts calendar days or workdays.
Related Excel examples
FAQ
Why does the date formula return a number?
Excel stores dates as serial numbers. Format the cell as a date to display it correctly.