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

# Credit troubleshooting

> Understand unexpected credit drops, free-plan sizing, rate-limit windows, top-ups, team overage, and how to reduce usage.

If credits changed unexpectedly, first check whether a companion response, agent run, routine, transcription follow-up, or connected app task recently ran.

## Credits dropped without an obvious agent

Normal chat replies can use credits. A visible agent block is not required for AI usage.

Long prompts, attached files, large tab context, and advanced models can increase cost.

## Free plan did less than requested

On free plans, Strawberry may do a smaller representative version of a large task first. Ask it to continue or scale up after reviewing the sample.

## Rate-limit window is active

A rate-limit window is a short-term usage guardrail. It can appear even if monthly credits remain.

Open the chat content panel to see the active window and refill time.

## Top-ups not used yet

Top-up credits are used after included monthly credits run out. They do not expire at month end.

## The balance belongs to the wrong account

If you have personal and team credits, check which credit account is active. Open the profile menu -> **Credit account**, compare the listed balances, and select the account you want new AI work to use.

On the web, open **Account** -> **Billing & usage** -> **Credit account**. Switching accounts does not move existing credits.

## Team overage blocked

New teams default to a \$0 overage limit. If team overage is blocked, an owner or admin can adjust the limit at `strawberry://settings/team`.

## Reduce usage

* Ask for a plan before execution.
* Ask for a sample before a large batch.
* Limit rows, pages, sources, or candidates.
* Use files and connected apps instead of pasting huge text.
* Stop or steer off-track chats.
* Save stable context in memory.
* Save repeated process in skills.