cell format problem

[smuscanto]

Why is 0801 formatted as text not equal to 0801 formatted as text?

I am using vlookup (Excel 2003) to transfer info from a source worksheet to a destination worksheet, both part of the same workbook. The ID number (lookup value) above is formatted as text because of the leading zero. However, the 0801 entered in the destination worksheet at a later date than when the 0801 was entered in the source worksheet is different and hence vlookup doesn't return valid info. There is no obvious reason. An IF statement confirms they are not equal, but I can't figure out why they are not the same.

[ChemistB]

If you upload an example (zipped), we can tell you.

ChemistB

[smuscanto]

Chemist B,

Did you receive my "upload"?

[ChemistB]

No, I didn't. I did respond to your email though. It's best if you upload it here on the board. That way it benefits everyone who has similar problems. You'll need to zip the file first and then when you're posting a reply, beneath the reply box is a button for Manage Attachments. Let me know if you have any problems.

ChemistB