Question 1

Do I need Microsoft Excel?

Accepted Answer

No. The Smart Calendar is a standard .xlsx spreadsheet with no macros — it opens in Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and LibreOffice. Use whichever you already have.

Question 2

Is the file safe to open?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There are no macros at all — just data and formulas. Nothing to enable, no security warnings, no code running on your device, and no data leaves the file.

Question 3

Will it work for 2026 and beyond?

Accepted Answer

Yes — any year. Open the Settings tab and type the year you want. The calendar grid, holidays, and payday schedule all recalculate instantly. There's nothing to generate and no version to re-download.

Question 4

My state shows no unique holidays. Why?

Accepted Answer

Some states have no additional paid holidays beyond the 11 federal holidays. The State Holidays tab says so clearly. Federal holidays still apply to all states.

Question 5

Can I customize it for my specific agency pay dates?

Accepted Answer

Yes. On the Settings tab, enter any real payday you've had as the anchor date and pick your pay frequency — the payday schedule rebuilds around your actual dates. Every cell stays editable.