How to Get Your Zapier API Key

Do you actually need a Zapier API key?

Most people who land here actually want one of two other things:

1. A webhook URL to trigger a Zap from another tool. You set that up inside the Zap itself, using the Webhooks by Zapier trigger. No API key needed. Webhooks by Zapier requires a paid plan.

2. An API key for some OTHER tool that Zapier will use. For example, your Mailchimp key, your Airtable key, your Stripe key. Those live in the OTHER tool, not in Zapier.

The Zapier API key itself is only useful if you're writing code that calls api.zapier.com to manage your Zaps from outside (listing Zaps, turning them on or off through a script, that kind of thing). Most coaches and small business owners never need this.

If either of the two above is closer to what you actually want, stop here and check out the relevant tool's API key guide instead.

Paid plan check

Zapier's API and webhook features are not on the free plan. You need at least the Starter plan ($19.99/month as of 2026) to use:

• The Zapier personal API key
• Webhooks by Zapier
• API by Zapier
• Most premium app integrations

If you're on free and you hit a wall trying to use any of these, the plan is the reason.

1. Open the API settings page

Open Developer Platform →

You can also reach the API key from your account settings inside the main Zapier app. Sign in with the same account that owns your Zaps.

2. Generate your key

1. Click Generate API Key (or Create new key depending on the page)
2. Copy the key and paste it somewhere safe
3. Use it in your script with the header Authorization: Bearer YOUR_KEY

Persistent. Zapier shows the key on the same page anytime you come back. You can rotate by clicking generate again, which invalidates the old key.

Working with Jeanette?