The Tool Desk
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Where to get an Anthropic API key
Anthropic manages API keys in its API Console. The Console is also where organizations manage team access, billing, and Workbench. Create an Anthropic Console organization account or sign in to an existing one, then manage keys in the Console. Anthropic does not provide a Claude API key through the Claude.ai chat subscription.
What you need before using the API
When setting up a new Console account, Anthropic asks for additional organization and use-case information and payment details. Its onboarding guidance says the account must be funded with usage credits before you can use the API or Workbench. Follow the current prompts in Console; the available sources do not establish a fixed sequence of screens or button labels.
Check your Console role if keys are not visible
Key access depends on your organization role. Ask an organization administrator to check your permissions if the API keys section is unavailable.
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| Console role | Relevant permissions |
|---|---|
| Developer | Can manage API keys and view usage and cost data. |
| Billing | Can manage billing and view usage and cost data. |
| Admin | Can manage keys, billing, users, and roles, and view usage and cost data. |
| User | Cannot view API keys, usage logs, or billing details. |
These permissions are described in Anthropic’s API Console roles and permissions guide.
Claude.ai plans and API billing are separate
A paid Claude.ai plan covers use of the Claude chat product; it does not pay for API calls made through Console. API access is billed separately. Anthropic’s current Help Center guidance describes standard Console usage as prepaid credits used for API, Workbench, and Claude Code. Successful calls are billable, and you can check the balance in Console. Anthropic also describes optional auto-reload, credit expiry after one year, and purchases as non-refundable; check the current API billing terms and Console for applicable details before adding funds.
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For the distinction between chat subscriptions and API charges, see Anthropic’s explanation of separate API billing. Model prices and any applicable credit terms can change, so check current pricing in Console rather than relying on a remembered rate.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Keep the API key secure
An API key is a secret credential. If someone obtains it, they may be able to make API calls that generate charges. Anthropic’s key security guidance recommends protecting keys and monitoring their use.
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- Do not share the key or publish it in a code repository.
- Store it in an environment variable or encrypted secrets manager instead of embedding it in application code.
- Use separate keys for different environments where practical, and rotate keys regularly.
- Monitor usage and costs in Console so unexpected activity is easier to spot.
- If you suspect a key has leaked, revoke it promptly from the API keys page and review usage. Deleting a local copy does not invalidate an exposed key.
If the API does not work after setup
- You cannot see keys: Ask an organization administrator to check your Console role; the User role cannot view keys, while Developers can manage them.
- Calls cannot proceed: Check that the organization has usage credits available and review its Console balance. Anthropic says API and Workbench use requires credits; usage stops when the balance is exhausted until more credits are available.
- You need to investigate spending: Console cost and usage reports can be filtered by workspace, model, month, and key, with CSV export. Access depends on your role. See Anthropic’s cost and usage reporting guide.
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