---
title: "Setting Up ClearCRM AI"
description: "This article walks through the steps of connecting OpenAI API key and making sure OpenAI account has active billing or credits."
url: https://help.clearcrm.com/en/articles/11389043-setting-up-clearcrm-ai
collection: "ClearCRM AI Settings"
updated: 2026-10-20
language: en
---

# Setting Up ClearCRM AI

This article walks through the steps of connecting OpenAI API key and making sure OpenAI account has active billing or credits.

## Where to Find the OpenAI Key Field

Head over to **ClearCRM AI > Settings**.  
You’ll see a field labeled **OpenAI Secret Key**, along with a link to [OpenAI’s API Key page](https://platform.openai.com/api-keys):

* * *

## Step 1: Create and Add Your OpenAI API Key

1.  Click the **OpenAI API** link, or go to [https://platform.openai.com/api-keys](https://platform.openai.com/api-keys).
    
2.  Log in to your OpenAI account.
    
3.  Click **Create new secret key** and copy the key.
    
4.  Paste it into the **OpenAI Secret Key** field in ClearCRM.
    
5.  Click **Save**.
    

![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/helpcenter/69adb1adea2195f0e0fe5fde/20260330170008_8797.png)

* * *

## Step 2: Make Sure You Have Credits or Billing Enabled

Adding the key is just one part.  
To actually use OpenAI-powered features, your account must also have **active usage credits**.

There are two options:

## Option A: Use Free Trial Credits

-   Go to [https://platform.openai.com/account/usage](https://platform.openai.com/account/usage)
    
-   If you see free trial credits remaining, you're good!
    

## Option B: Add Paid Billing

If your credits are used up or expired:

1.  Go to [https://platform.openai.com/account/billing](https://platform.openai.com/account/billing)
    
2.  Choose one:
    
    -   Add a payment method (for pay-as-you-go)
        
    -   Or buy prepaid credits
        

![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/helpcenter/69adb1adea2195f0e0fe5fde/20260330170009_9342.png)

## You're All Set!

Once your key is saved and billing is active, you’ll be able to use all features in the ClearCRM AI:

-   AI Chat Box
    
-   AI Image Generator
    
-   AI Audio Transcription
    
-   AI Audio Generation
    
-   AI Documents & Templates