How to calculate the days between two dates
The number of days between two dates is the later date minus the earlier one, counted in whole days. This calculator handles month lengths and leap years for you, so there is no counting on a calendar. It is handy for deadlines, notice periods, countdowns and working out age in days.
Worked example
From 1 January 2026 to 1 March 2026 is 59 days, because January has 31 days and February in 2026 has 28.
Good to know
This counts every calendar day. If you need only working days, subtract the weekends and any public holidays from the total. To include the end date itself in the count, add one to the result.
Frequently asked questions
How do I count the days between two dates?
Subtract the earlier date from the later one. The calculator counts whole calendar days and handles leap years and different month lengths automatically.
Does it count business days only?
No, it counts every calendar day. For working days, subtract the weekends and any public holidays in the range.
Does it include the end day?
It counts the number of nights between the dates. Add one if you need to include both the first and last day.
Can the end date be before the start date?
Yes. The result is always shown as a positive number of days.
Are leap years handled?
Yes, the count uses real calendar dates including any leap days in the range.