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

# Balance

> Manage your account balance and auto top-up settings.

Prem API uses a **prepaid balance** model. Each API request decreases your account balance. The cost of each request depends on the model and on the number of tokens.

View and manage your balance in the [dashboard](https://dashboard.prem.io/billing).

## Top Up Balance

You can add funds to your account at any time in the dashboard.

* **Minimum amount:** \$1
* **Payment processing:** Stripe

When Stripe confirms the payment, the funds go to your balance immediately.

<Tip>
  Keep your balance above zero to prevent interruptions. If your balance is zero, Prem API blocks API requests until you top up.
</Tip>

## Auto Top-Up

Auto top-up adds funds automatically when your balance goes below a configured threshold. This helps you keep API access without interruption.

To enable auto top-up, configure these settings in the dashboard:

| Setting                       | Description                                                                     |
| ----------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Minimum Balance Threshold** | When your balance goes below this amount, the system starts an automatic top-up |
| **Top Up To**                 | The target balance after the auto top-up completes                              |

<Info>
  You must set a [default payment method](/billing/payment) before you enable auto top-up.
</Info>

### Example

This example uses a Minimum Balance Threshold of 10 USD and a Top Up To value of 100 USD:

* When your balance goes below the threshold, the system automatically charges your default payment method.
* The system tops up your balance to 100 USD.