Setting API Usage Limits on OpenAI

This guide outlines the simple steps to set API usage limits for your OpenAI API account. Controlling usage limits helps manage costs and prevent unexpected charges.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Login to OpenAI:

- Go to the OpenAI Login Page.

- Log in with your OpenAI account credentials.

2. Access API Section:

- Click on the "API" section in the main navigation menu.

3. Manage Account:

- On the top-right, click your Organization/Profile name.

- Select "Manage account" from the dropdown.

4. Navigate to Usage Limits:

- In the left-side menu, go to `Billing` > `Payment Methods` > `Usage limits`.

5. Set Soft and Hard Limits:

- Define a Soft Limit (notification threshold) and a Hard Limit (maximum monthly spend).

6. Cost Management:

- Soft limits warn you as you approach your usage limits.

- Hard limits prevent additional charges once reached.

7. Monitoring Usage:

- Notifications alert you near the soft limit.

- Exceeding the hard limit triggers an "API quota exceeded..." error in your application.

8. Adjust Limits as Needed:

- Periodically review and adjust limits based on evolving needs.

By following these straightforward steps, you can easily manage API usage limits for your OpenAI account, ensuring cost control and a seamless experience.