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15.6. Why is my Import Failing?

Import files need to be in simple raw data form, saving your spreadsheet as a CSV file from excel will strip away Excel formatting that sometimes can get in your way when viewing the data as Import Manager will. Keep your file name short and simple - avoid using punctuation or spaces.


Here are some common data discrepancies that can cause an import failure or record creation failure:


  1. Date Format - all date entries should be formatted as MM/DD/YYYY
  2. Missing Required fields 
    • contributions need a receipt type (except on the standard contribution import)
    • first name and last are required for individual record creation
    • Addresses need a city and two-letter state in the specified columns 
  3. Missing or extra columns - the columns header count and order must match the template being used exactly
    • even a space entered into a column that should be blank could cause a failure
    • use template editor to create custom templates if you want to avoid excel work fitting your data into our standard templates
  4. Illegal Characters
    • avoid using punctuation in your data cells (!#$%^&*"?/:;><=+), periods, hyphens, and @ in emails are fine
    • enter amounts without dollar signs ($), the decimal is fine



If you are experiencing an unexplainable import failure, send your CSV file to support@aristotle.com and include your campaign/database name, the import template you are using, and the selections you made on the New Import page for matching criteria, address standardization, and optional parameters. 

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