Claude usage credits: how do they work and what do they cost?
What used to be called “extra usage” is now usage credits. They take over when your plan runs out.
How it works
Usage credits let you “switch to consumption-based pricing at standard API rates” once you hit your limits. They apply to chats and to Claude Code alike.
Turning them on
- On the web, open Settings > Usage and click “Enable”.
- Add funds: credits are prepaid.
- Click “Adjust limit” to set a monthly spend cap, or choose “Set to unlimited”.
If you subscribed through the mobile app, turn them on from the web version. In Claude Code, the /usage-credits command replaces the old /extra-usage.
Prepaid bundles
| Bundle | Price | Saving |
|---|---|---|
| $50 of credits | $45 | 10% |
| $250 of credits | $200 | 20% |
| $1,000 of credits | $700 | 30% |
Pro and Max can buy up to $2,000 of bundles a month. On credits, Claude Code’s cache lasts five minutes instead of an hour, so breaks cost more.
Frequently asked questions
Are “extra usage” and “usage credits” the same thing?
Yes: Anthropic renamed the feature. Claude Code’s /extra-usage command became /usage-credits.
Are credits used before my plan?
No: they take over once your plan’s limits are reached.
Can I cap the spending?
Yes, with a monthly limit in Settings > Usage.