SUMIF with **formula* (vs. blank/null values)

[skydivetom]

Experts:

I need some assistance with a SUMIF formula. Please see attached XLS for details.

Allow me to quickly recap my requirements:
- I am familiar with the regular SUMIF [=SUMIF(L5:L17,"<>",M5:M17)] where, e.g., M18 only sums up values in M where column L has a corresponding cell value.
- Now, in my case, I use an INDEX function in column A and have numeric values in column B.
- Given the existing INDEX formula (which may or may not display actual values in column A), all values in column B are summed up (regardless of column A displaying a string value).

Again, attached is an example spreadsheet... "picture is worth a 1000 words".

My question:
Given that I have a formula in column A, how can I tweak the SUMIF so that I get an accurate count of column B for which the INDEX formula actually outputs a string value in column A?

Thank you,
EEH

[XLent]

in your scenario use ?* rather than <>

[skydivetom]

PERFECT!!! Thank you!

EEH