Fixing Run-Time Error '91' in Custom Command Bar VBA for Excel

Learn how to diagnose and resolve the `Run-Time Error '91'` encountered when working with custom command bars in Excel VBA. Follow our easy step-by-step guide!
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How to Fix Run-Time Error '91' in Custom Command Bar VBA

When working with Excel and VBA (Visual Basic for Applications), you might occasionally encounter errors that can disrupt your workflow. One such error is the Run-time error '91': Object variable or With block variable not set. This error usually indicates that there is a problem with how your code is managing object references, particularly when customizing command bars. In this post, we will break down the root cause of the error and provide you with a step-by-step solution to rectify it.

Understanding the Problem

You may be attempting to limit the user's ability to insert or delete rows within an Excel worksheet. Your existing VBA code hides the default "Insert" and "Delete" options on the Row menu and replaces them with custom buttons that trigger instructions. However, you face the Run-time error '91' sporadically when executing this code. This error typically arises when you try to access an object that has not been properly initialized or set up.

Possible Causes of the Error

Incorrect object handling: If the command bars or their controls are not correctly referenced, you may run into this error.

Changing the collection inadvertently: When you make the default buttons invisible, it appears that their removal from the collection can lead to unexpected behavior.

Solution Breakdown

To resolve the Run-time error '91', let's take a closer look at your current VBA code and apply the necessary corrections. Here’s how to systematically approach this:

Step 1: Review Your VBA Code

You have a couple of subroutines in both the worksheet and workbook objects responsible for the customization of command bars. Ensure that your code looks similar to the following:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Step 2: Testing Command Bar Controls

Before you modify control visibility, it's prudent to examine the command bars to confirm which IDs are active. You can do this by using the following subroutine to print existing command bar control IDs:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Run this subroutine to check the command bar IDs before making them invisible. If you find that the ID you are trying to manipulate doesn’t exist, you may need to adjust your approach.

Step 3: Modify Control Visibility Logic

Instead of directly setting visibility on the controls, you can try how to safely manipulate them without running afoul of the underlying collection updates. Here’s an adjustment:

Ensure careful error handling when manipulating controls, which can prevent your code from crashing if the controls are not found.

Step 4: Implement Your Custom Functions

Make sure your custom subroutines for the row manipulation actions display appropriate messages when invoked:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Step 5: Test Your Code

After implementing the above changes, test the code across multiple user sessions to ensure that the error does not reoccur.

Conclusion

By correctly managing your object references and implementing error handling, you can often prevent Run-time error '91' from occurring in Excel VBA. This approach not only allows you to customize command bars effectively but also ensures a smooth user experience. If you keep running into issues, consider reviewing your initial setup of command bars and re-assessing your error-handling mechanisms.

With these tips, you should be well on your way to successfully managing and customizing your Excel command bars without encountering frustrating runtime errors!