Excel Error Codes

How to Fix the WRAPCOLS #NAME? Error in Microsoft Excel 365

Rana Garcia Oct 10, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is encountering a #NAME? error when trying to use the WRAPCOLS function, despite entering the formula with the correct syntax.

How to Fix the WRAPCOLS #NAME? Error in Microsoft Excel 365

Product: Microsoft Excel 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to wrap a one-dimensional array of values into multiple columns using the WRAPCOLS function.
Observed behavior: Excel fails to recognize the function name and returns a #NAME? error, indicating that the feature is missing from the installed build of Microsoft 365.

Before you start

Verify that you have an active Microsoft 365 subscription, as the WRAPCOLS function is an exclusive dynamic array feature not available in older standalone versions like Office 2019 or 2021.

Solution 1Recommended

Update Microsoft 365 to the Latest Build

The WRAPCOLS function was introduced in newer releases of Excel. Forcing a manual update ensures your software contains the latest dynamic array functions.

Microsoft rolls out new functions incrementally. If you are on an older build (such as version 2202), your Excel installation simply does not know the WRAPCOLS function exists.

Open Account Settings

Launch Microsoft Excel, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Account' from the bottom of the left-hand menu.

Access Update Options

Locate the 'Product Information' section on the right side of the screen and click on the 'Update Options' dropdown button.

Apply Updates

Select 'Update Now'. Excel will check for, download, and install any pending updates. Once complete, restart Excel and check your WRAPCOLS formula.

Update Microsoft 365 to the Latest Build

Save Your Work: Be sure to save all open workbooks before updating, as Excel will need to restart to apply the new version changes.

Solution 2

Switch Your Microsoft 365 Update Channel

If updating doesn't work, you might be on a delayed enterprise update channel that hasn't received the WRAPCOLS function yet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Excel show #NAME? even when my formula is spelled correctly?

The #NAME? error occurs when Excel does not recognize the text in a formula. For functions like WRAPCOLS, this usually means the function has not been introduced in your specific build or version of Excel yet, even if your syntax is flawless.

Is the WRAPCOLS function available in Excel 2019 or 2021?

No. WRAPCOLS and other modern dynamic array functions are exclusive to Microsoft 365 subscriptions and Excel for the Web. They are not available in non-subscription, standalone versions of Office.

How can I check my exact Excel version and build number?

You can check your version by opening Excel, clicking 'File' in the ribbon, and selecting 'Account'. Your version, build number, and update channel will be clearly displayed under the 'About Excel' section.

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