Want to use Claude through the API without paying? Here’s the verified picture in 2026: Anthropic’s API Console is effectively prepaid. At verification we could not confirm an automatic free signup credit on Anthropic’s own sources — you generally add usage credits before you can call the API.
The reliable free route is to use Claude where it’s hosted on a cloud platform and pay with that platform’s trial credit.
1. Run Claude on Amazon Bedrock with AWS credits
Claude models are available on Amazon Bedrock. New AWS accounts get up to $200 in credits ($100 on signup plus up to $100 more), which you can spend on Bedrock — including Claude. A payment method is required for verification, but you aren’t charged until you upgrade.
2. Run Claude on Google Vertex AI with the $300 credit
Claude models are also offered through Google Vertex AI. The Google Cloud $300 / 90-day trial covers Vertex AI, so you can call Claude there for free within that budget. This is the most generous single credit available.
3. Check the Anthropic Console directly
Sign in at the Anthropic Console and check the billing/credits screen — terms change, and if a free test credit appears we’ll verify and list it immediately. Until then, we won’t quote a figure we can’t confirm.
4. Consider startup credits
If you’re an eligible startup, Anthropic and the cloud platforms run startup programs with larger credit allocations. These are application-based; confirm current eligibility and amounts on the official program pages before relying on them.