> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.apers.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Purchasing Credits

> Buy additional credits when you need more than your plan includes

If you run out of credits before your next billing cycle, you can purchase additional credits directly from the dashboard. Purchased credits are added to your balance immediately.

## How to Purchase Credits

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open the dashboard">
    Navigate to your account dashboard and find the credits section.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select a credit package">
    Choose from the available credit packages. Larger packages offer better value per credit.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Complete payment">
    Confirm your purchase. Payment is processed through your account's payment method on file.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Credits are added instantly">
    Your new credits appear in your balance right away and are available for immediate use.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Purchased Credits vs. Plan Credits

|                | Plan Credits                             | Purchased Credits             |
| -------------- | ---------------------------------------- | ----------------------------- |
| **Source**     | Included with your subscription          | Bought separately             |
| **Cadence**    | Added at the start of each billing cycle | Added once, when you buy them |
| **Expiration** | Never expire                             | Never expire                  |

<Info>
  All your credits, plan and purchased, share a single balance and never expire. Purchasing simply tops up that balance.
</Info>

## When to Purchase vs. Upgrade

* **Purchase credits** if you occasionally need a small top-up near the end of a billing cycle.
* **Upgrade your plan** if you consistently run out of credits before your refresh date. See [Plans](/credits/plans) for tier details.

<Warning>
  Credit purchases are non-refundable. Review your current balance before purchasing.
</Warning>