How Blank Field Handling Works for Salesforce Formula Fields

Scenario: Formula Displaying Blank Values

One possible scenario where Blank Field Handling may be configured incorrectly is when a formula field displays a blank value when you expect it to calculate a result.
Example:
You have two custom fields: Percentage A and Percentage B. You create a formula field that calculates the difference: Percentage_A__c - Percentage_B__c. For a specific record, Percentage A has a value of 1.0 and Percentage B is blank (null).

Outcomes Based on Blank Field Handling Selection

The result of the formula differs based on your Blank Field Handling selection:

• Outcome 1 — Treat blank fields as zeroes selected: The formula calculates 1.0 - 0 = 1.0. The field displays 1.0 on the record.
• Outcome 2 — Treat blank fields as blanks selected: Salesforce treats the blank Percentage B field as a null value. Because part of the formula criteria references null, Salesforce does not produce a result. The field displays nothing on the record.

To avoid blank formula results, it is recommended to select Treat blank fields as zeroes to always display a value, unless your business requirements specifically require blank output when referenced fields are empty.