> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.cortecs.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.cortecs.ai/features/payments-and-billing.md).

# Billing

Add funds before sending API requests. Requests are charged against the available project balance. If the balance reaches zero, API requests fail until more funds are added.

Open [**Console > Billing**](https://cortecs.ai/userArea/console?tab=billing) to manage billing details, payment methods, top-ups, and invoices.

### Billing address

Fill in your billing address before adding funds. The Billing page supports **Private** and **Business** customer types. Business billing details include company and tax ID fields.

After entering the required details, click **Save**.

{% hint style="info" %}
For business accounts, tax IDs are validated by our payment provider through the official VIES VAT system of the European Commission. Validation may not be instant.
{% endhint %}

### Payment methods

Cortecs supports two top-up methods:

| Method                 | Best for                                                    | Balance availability                                                                                                   |
| ---------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Credit Card**        | Most top-ups and immediate access                           | Funds are added after the card payment is validated in real time                                                       |
| **Pay by Wire (SEPA)** | Larger transactions or invoice-based enterprise procurement | Clearance is not instant and may take up to two business days after your bank has successfully transferred the payment |

#### Credit card

Credit card is the recommended payment method when you need immediate access to funds.

1. Select **Credit Card** under **Payment Methods**.
2. Add your card details.
3. Enter the top-up amount under **Balance Overview**.
4. Click **Top up**.

Once the card payment is validated, the top-up is applied to your balance.

{% hint style="info" %}
Auto top-up is available with credit card payments. Set an amount and threshold to automatically add funds when the balance drops below the configured threshold.
{% endhint %}

#### Pay by Wire (SEPA)

Pay by Wire is available for teams that prefer invoice-based payment and is recommended for larger transactions.

1. Select **Pay by Wire (SEPA)** under **Payment Methods**.
2. Enter the top-up amount under **Balance Overview**.
3. Click **Top up**.
4. Use the generated invoice details to complete the bank transfer.

Wire transfers are not validated in real time. Even after your bank has transferred the payment successfully, it may take up to two business days for Cortecs to clear it and add the funds to your balance.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Auto top-up is deactivated when using Pay by Wire. Use credit card if you need automatic refills or instant access to funds.
{% endhint %}

### Billing email and history

Set the **Billing Email** to choose where invoices and payment receipts are sent.

The **Billing History** table shows past top-ups with invoice and receipt downloads. Wire payments may appear as **Pending** until the payment has cleared.