SocialMate uses three credit pools: monthly (resets), earned (referrals), and purchased (never expire). Here's exactly how they work.
# SocialMate's Credit System Explained: Monthly, Earned, and Purchased Credits
SocialMate uses a three-pool credit system for AI tools. Understanding how it works helps you get the most out of your plan without running out at the wrong time.
### 1. Monthly Credits
These reset every month with your plan. They're the first credits consumed when you use an AI tool.
| Plan | Monthly Credits |
|------|----------------|
| Free | 50 |
| Pro | 500 |
| Agency | 2,000 |
### 2. Earned Credits
These come from referrals and platform milestones. When someone signs up using your referral link and becomes a paying customer, you earn +25 credits. Milestone bonuses add more at key achievements.
Earned credits are consumed second — after monthly credits run out.
### 3. Purchased Credits
Buy these anytime from the Credits page. They never expire and are consumed last.
| Pack | Credits | Price |
|------|---------|-------|
| Starter | 100 | $1.99 |
| Popular | 300 | $4.99 |
| Pro | 750 | $9.99 |
| Max | 2,000 | $19.99 |
When you use an AI tool, credits are deducted in this order:
1. Monthly credits (first to go)
2. Earned credits (second)
3. Purchased credits (last — these are your safety net)
This design ensures your purchased credits last as long as possible.
Your credit balance updates in real time in the sidebar. You can see exactly how many credits remain in each pool at any time.
AI credits exist because Google Gemini API calls aren't free. SocialMate passes that cost on transparently rather than burying it in a higher subscription price. Free users get real AI access. Power users get plenty. Everyone understands what they're paying for.
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