How to Get Your OpenAI API Key

Everything you need to know about setting up OpenAI API access for Steadily

Free Plan Users Only: This guide is for Steadily Free Plan users who need to provide their own OpenAI API key. Starter and Pro plan users have API access included automatically.

Step 1: Create an OpenAI Account

If you don't already have one, go to OpenAI's signup page and create an account.

Step 2: Access the API Keys Section

1. Log into OpenAI Platform
2. Click on your profile in the top-right corner
3. Select "API Keys" from the dropdown menu
4. Or go directly to platform.openai.com/api-keys

Step 3: Create a New API Key

1. Click the "Create new secret key" button
2. Give your key a descriptive name like "Steadily Social Media"
3. Click "Create secret key"
4. Important: Copy the key immediately - you won't be able to see it again!

Step 4: Add Credit to Your Account

OpenAI requires a small amount of credit to use their API:

1. Go to Billing settings
2. Click "Add payment method"
3. Add a credit card
4. We recommend starting with $5-10 credit

How Much Does It Cost?

Typical Costs with Steadily:

• Per social media post: $0.01 - $0.05
• Voice profile analysis: $0.10 - $0.30 (one-time)
• Monthly estimate: $2-8 for 2-4 posts per week

Actual costs depend on post length and complexity. Most users spend less than $5/month.

Step 5: Use Your API Key in Steadily

1. Copy your OpenAI API key (it starts with "sk-")
2. Return to the Steadily setup wizard
3. Paste your key in the "OpenAI API Key" field
4. Click "Continue" - Steadily will test your key automatically

Security Best Practices

Keep Your API Key Safe:

• Never share your API key publicly
• Don't post it in forums or social media
• Only enter it on trusted sites like Steadily
• You can regenerate your key anytime if needed

Troubleshooting

Common Issues:

• "Invalid API key" - Double-check you copied the entire key correctly
• "Insufficient quota" - Add billing information to your OpenAI account
• "Rate limit exceeded" - Wait a few minutes and try again

Need Help?

If you're having trouble with your OpenAI API key setup, please contact our support team at support@reachsteadily.com. We're happy to help!

Prefer Not to Deal with API Keys?

Our Starter plan includes OpenAI API access with no setup required. Starting at just $10/year, it's often more cost-effective than managing your own API usage.

Use code BETA2025 for exclusive early access pricing!

View Pricing Plans →