Getting an OpenAI API Key

For use with CouncilAI

OpenAI's API platform is separate from ChatGPT — a ChatGPT Plus or Pro subscription does not include API access. You'll need to set up a developer account specifically, even if you already use ChatGPT. Takes about five minutes.

This isn't free. OpenAI's API is pay-as-you-go — you add a payment method and are billed for what you actually use. Typical CouncilAI conversations cost fractions of a cent to a few cents each.

Step 1 — Create an OpenAI Platform account

1️⃣

Go to the OpenAI Platform

Visit platform.openai.com and sign up or log in — with email, Google, Microsoft, or Apple. This is the developer platform, different from chatgpt.com.

Step 2 — Verify your account

2️⃣

Confirm your email and phone number

OpenAI may ask for phone verification depending on your account or region — this is a standard anti-abuse step.

Step 3 — Add a payment method

3️⃣

Set up billing

Go to Settings → Billing and add a card. OpenAI uses a prepaid credit system — a small starting balance (around $5) is usually enough to begin.

Step 4 — Create your API key

4️⃣

Go to API Keys

Navigate to platform.openai.com/api-keys, click Create new secret key, give it a name like "CouncilAI", and click Create.

Step 5 — Copy your key

5️⃣

Save it immediately

Your key is shown only once. Copy it right away — if you close the window without copying, you'll need to create a new key.

Once you have your key, go back to CouncilAI and paste it into the GPT field in Settings, then click Test & Save.

Questions?

Email contact@councilai.ca if you get stuck.