TIP: Insert Timestamp into Zap Step with {{zap_meta_human_now}}
What
Use a shortcut variable to insert the timestamp in a field when a Zap step runs.
Article
https://zapier.com/help/create/customize/insert-the-time-your-zap-runs-into-a-field
Timestamp formats are available:
- Friendly: {{zap_meta_human_now}}
- UNIX: {{zap_meta_timestamp}}
- UTC ISO-8601: {{zap_meta_utc_iso}}
- Other US Time Zones are available
NOTES
- Timestamps can help with tracing and troubleshooting
- Timestamps can be used as cache busters
Moderator update (May 28, 2025): For those on paid Zapier plans, it’s also possible to access the current time using a system variable. You can learn more about creating and accessing custom/system variables here: Create reusable variables to use in Zaps. If you’re not on a paid plan, it’s still possible to use the {{zap_meta_human_now}} approach as well.
