Ask HN: OpenAI zero'd balance (actual money, not free credits) after inactivity

Does OpenAI wipe out API balance if you're not using for a few month(s)? I had some balance of actual money paid via credit card that I had not used for few months. I went yesterday and the balance was showing as $0.0 . I'm 100% sure I did not use it up.

Again, this was not free credits which I'm totally sure has an expiry, but this was paid by me via my credit card, so not sure what gives.

If so, this does not make sense. Has anyone else noticed this or was it some sort of anomaly at my end. Happy to give OpenAI benefit of doubt.

7 points | by footempbar 1 day ago

4 comments

  • KomoD 18 hours ago
    Yes, the credits expire, just like the terms say.

    > All sales of Services, including sales of prepaid Services, are final. Service Credits are not refundable except where required by law, and expire one year after the date of purchase or issuance if not used, unless otherwise specified at the time of purchase.

  • throwaway915 1 day ago
    The ethical DNA of a company manifests itself throughout its actions.
  • r2_pilot 1 day ago
    Anthropic did that to me and my company's API credits. I was unhappy with them altho they did send me advance notice.
  • muzani 1 day ago
    They and Anthropic wipe credits after a year, even with use. Yes, paid credits have an expiry.
    [-]
    • footempbar 1 day ago
      Interesting. Shouldn't that be illegal, at least in CA which has pretty consumer friendly laws - for example gift cards never expire in CA.