What should I do if n8n shows an "Insufficient credits" error even though I'm using a free model from open router?
#free model error
tame ledge
noble quarryBOT
If n8n shows an "Insufficient credits" error even when using a free model, it may be because your account has a negative credit balance. Free models have strict rate limits: up to 20 requests per minute and 50 free model requests per day if you haven't purchased credits. If you have purchased at least 10 credits, the daily limit increases to 1000 free model requests. Negative credit balance causes 402 errors, blocking usage—even for free models. You can check your credit balance via the API or dashboard. Adding credits to bring your balance above zero will resolve this issue API Rate Limits.
Are you currently tracking your credit usage through the API or dashboard?
tame ledge
will creating new account resolve this issue?
noble quarryBOT
Creating a new account might temporarily bypass the "Insufficient credits" error if the new account starts with a zero or positive credit balance. However, if you continue using free models without purchased credits, you will still be subject to the same rate limits and daily free request caps. Also, if your usage causes a negative credit balance again, the error can reoccur.
To resolve the issue fully, ensure your account has a positive credit balance by purchasing credits or managing your usage within the free limits. For organizational accounts, credit management is controlled by admins, so check with them if applicable Organization Management.
Are you using a personal or organization account?
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