Google Maps API: the $200 credit was replaced. What's free now?
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Source checked 4 Oct 2026 · Published 21 Oct 2026 · Last reviewed 21 Oct 2026 · By Ctrl+Z Therapy (how we test)
The short answer
As of March 1, 2025, free usage caps replace the monthly $200 credit: each Maps product has its own free monthly usage. Dynamic Maps, for example, has a free usage cap of 10,000 events, then $7.00 per 1,000. The Maps Embed product is listed as unlimited. Free usage resets on the first day of each month.
What to do
- Restrict your API key. Google says you are financially responsible for charges caused by abuse of unrestricted API keys.
- Set quota limits to cap the number of requests. Google suggests setting them slightly lower than your absolute maximum.
- Don't set quotas too low: quotas stop requests, so your map stops for users too.
Good to know
- Budget alerts only notify you. They don't stop requests.
- Prices are global prices in USD, checked 4 Oct 2026. India pricing differs, and monthly credit programs aren't covered here.
Source
- Google Maps Platform: Billing overview
- Google Maps Platform: Pricing
- Google Maps Platform: Manage costs
Checked on 4 Oct 2026. Prices, limits and settings change, so check the source before you rely on them.