My spreadsheet formula stopped working on subsequent rows

Janine Peterson 0 Reputation points
2026-10-06T14:06:18.8733333+00:00

I am using a formula to track loan repayment and it stopped working by row 41. How do I get it to continue on down the spreadsheet?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Excel | For home | Windows

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  1. Thomas4-N 22,555 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-10-10T06:39:18.8033333+00:00

    Hello Janine Peterson,

    Thanks for clarifying how columns B, C, and D are used. If the formula still gives the correct total in earlier rows, try extending that existing formula:

    1. Select the last correctly working formula cell in column D, together with the cells directly below where you want the calculation to continue.
    2. Press Ctrl+D to fill the formula down.

    Microsoft explains this here: Fill a formula down into adjacent cells.

    If the totals are still incorrect, please paste the formula from the last working cell in D and describe what the next row shows, such as a blank, an error, or an incorrect total. That will help us check the actual formula rather than suggest one for a different spreadsheet.

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  2. Janine Peterson 0 Reputation points
    2026-10-06T14:12:13.81+00:00

    My formula is to provide a total in column D, adding amounts in column B and subtracting amounts in column C. How do I make that continue down the spreadsheet?

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  3. AI answer

    2026-10-06T14:06:32.1+00:00

    A common fix for this loan-repayment pattern is to cap the payment amount so it never exceeds the remaining balance.

    Use these formulas:

    • In I9: =MIN(K8, $B$9-H9)
    • In G9: =SUM(H9:I9)

    Then copy both formulas down the rest of the rows.

    This works because MIN(K8, $B$9-H9) prevents the formula from trying to subtract more than the remaining loan amount as the balance approaches zero.

    If formulas are not recalculating after filling down, also check that workbook calculation is turned on:

    1. Select File > Options.
    2. Select Formulas.
    3. Under Calculation options > Workbook Calculation, choose Automatic.
    4. Fill the formula down again using the fill handle, or press Ctrl+D.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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