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.