# Credits System

Fotify operates on a credit-based system that allows you to create events with different feature sets. This guide explains how credits work, how to purchase them, and how they're used within the platform.

## Understanding Credits

Credits are the currency used within Fotify to create events of various types. Each event type requires a specific number of credits to create.

### Credit Balance

Your current credit balance is displayed:

* On the event creation page

## Event Types and Credit Costs

Different event types offer various features and require different amounts of credits:

| Plan         | Credit Cost | Best For                              |
| ------------ | ----------- | ------------------------------------- |
| Free         | 0           | Trying the platform, small gatherings |
| Basic        | 80          | Small events, basic features          |
| Premium      | 120         | Medium events, comprehensive features |
| Professional | 200         | Large events, all features            |

## Purchasing Credits

To purchase credits:

1. Click on your credit balance or the "Buy Credits" button
2. In the purchase modal, you'll see available credit packages
3. Each package includes:
   * Number of credits
   * Price
   * Any special offers or labels (like "Best Value")
4. Select your desired package
5. Complete the payment process using a secure checkout
6. Credits will be added to your account immediately

## Using Credits

Credits are consumed when:

1. Creating a new event
2. The credit cost is based on the event type selected
3. Credits are deducted immediately upon event creation

### Credit Validation

Before creating an event, the system validates:

1. If you have sufficient credits for the selected event type
2. If not, you'll be prompted to purchase more credits
3. The system suggests appropriate credit packages based on what you need

## Insufficient Credits Flow

When you try to create an event without enough credits:

1. The system shows an "Insufficient Credits" modal
2. It displays:
   * Your current balance
   * The cost of the selected event type
   * The shortfall amount
   * Recommended credit package
3. You can choose to:
   * Purchase the suggested package
   * View more packages
   * Cancel and select a different event type

## Credit Transaction History

To view your credit history:

1. Access your profile settings
2. Navigate to the "Billing" section
3. View a detailed transaction history

## Credit Policies

Important policies regarding credits:

1. **No Expiration**: Credits do not expire once purchased
2. **Non-Transferable**: Credits cannot be transferred between accounts
3. **Refunds**: Refund policies are governed by the terms of service
4. **Pricing Changes**: Credit costs for event types may change, but purchased credits remain valid

## Billing Portal

Fotify integrates with a secure billing portal that allows you to:

1. View all past transactions
2. Download receipts and invoices
3. Update payment methods
4. Manage subscriptions (if applicable)

To access the portal:

1. Click on your profile/account menu
2. Select "Billing Portal"
3. You'll be redirected to a secure management interface

## Credit Usage Tips

* Purchase larger credit packages for better value
* Plan your event needs in advance to optimize credit usage
* Check feature requirements carefully before selecting event types
* Monitor your credit balance regularly