How to Buy OpenAI API Credits and Add a Payment Method

If you want to use OpenAI’s API in your own apps, bots, or systems, you’ll need to: Add a payment method Buy credits or enable pay-as-you-go billing Generate an API key

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1️ Log In to the OpenAI API Platform

1. Go to platform.openai.com/account

2. Sign in with your OpenAI account (you can use the same account as your ChatGPT plan if you like).

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2️Add a Payment Method

1. Go to: platform.openai.com/account/billing/payment-methods

2. Click “Add payment method.”

3. Enter your credit/debit card details and save.

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3️ Enable Pay-As-You-Go or Buy Prepaid Credits

Option A — Pay-As-You-Go

• Go to: platform.openai.com/account/billing/overview

• Enable Pay-As-You-Go billing.

• Set a monthly spending limit (optional but recommended to avoid surprises).

Option B — Buy Prepaid Credits (Optional)

• Go to: platform.openai.com/account/billing/credit

• Purchase credits in fixed amounts ($5, $10, $20, etc.).

• The cost of your API usage will be deducted from these prepaid credits instead of charging your card per use.

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4️ Generate an API Key

1. Go to: platform.openai.com/api-keys

2. Click “Create new secret key.”

3. Copy and store the key securely — you’ll use it in your code to authenticate API calls.

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Important Notes

• The ChatGPT Plus/Pro subscription does NOT include API credits — you must add a payment method and buy credits separately.

• New developers often get free credits (e.g., $5–$18) for a limited trial — check your account for eligibility.

• Monitor your usage to control costs: platform.openai.com/account/usage

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You’re Ready to Build!

Once your payment method is added and your API key is ready, you can start calling OpenAI’s models in your own apps, scripts, or integrations.