---
title: "Creating an API Key"
slug: "payouts-creating-an-api-key"
updated: 2026-07-09T04:33:47Z
published: 2026-07-09T04:33:47Z
canonical: "docs.xendit.co/payouts-creating-an-api-key"
---

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

# Creating an API Key

Before you start, you need to have a Xendit account. Refer to [Create Account](https://docs.xendit.co/docs/create-account). Once that’s done, you’ll be able to start testing immediately by using your account in Test Mode.

## How to create your API key

1. Generate a Secret API Key for development [on your settings page](https://dashboard.xendit.co/settings/developers#api-keys) or by visiting **Settings** > **Developers** > **API Keys** on your dashboard
2. Make sure to set **Write** permissions for your API Key for money-out features
3. Ensure that the **API key is not given any permissions beyond the purpose it was meant for**. Doing so might lead to security incidents. See our [API key guide](/v1/docs/api-keys) here for more information
4. Store your API key securely using a secrets management solution