How to Get an OpenAI API Key
This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining an API key from OpenAI to use with Reformation AI. With an OpenAI API key, you can access models like GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, and more.
Step 1: Create an OpenAI Account
If you don't already have an OpenAI account, you'll need to create one:
- Visit the OpenAI Platform
- Click on "Sign up" and follow the instructions to create your account
- Verify your email address and complete any additional verification steps
Step 2: Set Up Billing (Required for API Access)
OpenAI requires a payment method to be added before you can use the API:
- Log in to your OpenAI account
- Navigate to the Billing section
- Click on "Set up paid account"
- Add a payment method (credit card or other supported payment options)
- Set a usage limit if desired to control your spending
OpenAI charges based on usage. Make sure to set appropriate usage limits to control costs. You can monitor your usage in the OpenAI dashboard.
Step 3: Generate an API Key
Once your account is set up with billing, you can generate an API key:
- Navigate to the API Keys section
- Click on "Create new secret key"
- Give your key a descriptive name (e.g., "Reformation AI")
- Click "Create secret key"
- Copy your API key immediately and store it securely (you won't be able to view it again)
Important: Your API key is sensitive information. Never share it publicly or commit it to version control. OpenAI will only show your key once when you create it, so make sure to copy it immediately.
Step 4: Add Your API Key to Reformation AI
Now that you have your OpenAI API key, you can add it to Reformation AI:
- Log in to your Reformation AI account
- Navigate to the Settings page
- Find the "API Keys" section
- Click on "Add OpenAI API Key"
- Paste your API key into the field
- Click "Save"
Once your API key is added, you'll be able to select and use OpenAI models in the chat interface.
OpenAI Pricing Information
OpenAI charges based on the number of tokens processed (both input and output). Different models have different pricing:
| Model | Input (per 1K tokens) | Output (per 1K tokens) |
|---|---|---|
| GPT-4o | $5.00 | $15.00 |
| GPT-4 | $10.00 | $30.00 |
| GPT-3.5 Turbo | $0.50 | $1.50 |
For the most up-to-date pricing information, visit the OpenAI Pricing page .
Troubleshooting
API Key Not Working
- Ensure you've copied the entire API key correctly
- Check that your OpenAI account has a valid payment method
- Verify that you haven't reached your usage limits
- Try generating a new API key if the issue persists
Rate Limit Errors
- OpenAI imposes rate limits on API requests
- If you're encountering rate limit errors, try spacing out your requests
- Consider upgrading your OpenAI account for higher rate limits
Next Steps
Now that you have your OpenAI API key set up, you can: