In Default mode you collect payments directly. The fastest path is the automated Stripe integration; advanced teams can still bring custom rails.

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Fast path — Automated Stripe integration

  1. In the Paywalls dashboard, paste a restricted Stripe API key.
  2. Paywalls will auto‑create checkout links when a user needs to top up and auto‑subscribe to webhooks to deposit credits after successful payment.
  3. The assistant message returned to your user includes the checkout link—render it like any model reply. After payment, the user’s app‑scoped balance is credited automatically.
Recommended Stripe key settings:
  • Use a Restricted Key scoped to Checkout Sessions and the minimum read permissions needed for prices/products.
  • Keep your master secret key out of the integration entirely.

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Advanced — Custom rails

  • Use your own checkout (Stripe Elements/Checkout or another PSP).
  • On payment success, call POST /v1/user/balance/deposit to credit the user.
  • Keep your internal user_id, PSP payment_intent, and any invoice refs in metadata for reconciliation.
  • No need to share any keys with paywalls.