No KYC, No Card: Signing Up and Getting a Working Key Without a Bank Account
This guide explains how to sign up for an LLM API aggregator that requires no KYC and no bank account. It covers the conceptual steps: creating an account, topping up with USDC on Base, and obtaining an API key that works across multiple models. It also outlines the payment model and how contributors can earn credits.
Why No-KYC and No-Bank-Account Access Matters
Traditional API providers often require identity verification and a credit card, which can be barriers for developers without access to traditional banking or those who value privacy. This aggregator removes those hurdles by accepting USDC on the Base network, a stablecoin on a low-cost Ethereum Layer 2. You can sign up with just an email and top up using crypto, no bank account needed.
Step 1: Create Your Account
Signing up is straightforward:
- Visit the aggregator's website and click the sign-up button.
- Provide an email address and a password. No personal information or documents are required.
- Verify your email if prompted.
Once registered, you can access the dashboard where you'll manage your API keys and balance.
Step 2: Top Up with USDC on Base
To use the API, you need to add funds. The aggregator accepts USDC on Base:
- From your dashboard, navigate to the billing or top-up section.
- You'll see a deposit address for USDC on Base. Send USDC from any wallet that supports Base (e.g., Coinbase Wallet, MetaMask with Base network).
- After the transaction confirms, your balance updates. There's no minimum amount, but you'll need enough to cover your usage.
Since Base has low fees, topping up is inexpensive. The aggregator credits your account at a rate of official price × 1.3, meaning you pay a small markup for the convenience and unified access.
Step 3: Generate Your API Key
With funds in your account, you can create an API key:
- Go to the API keys section in the dashboard.
- Click "Create new key" and give it a name (e.g., "my-project").
- Copy the key and store it securely. You won't be able to see it again.
This key works across all supported models, including Claude, GPT, DeepSeek, Qwen, GLM, and Kimi. You don't need separate keys for each provider.
Using Your Key
Incorporate the key into your applications by setting it as a bearer token in HTTP requests or using it with the aggregator's SDK. The base URL will be provided in the documentation. You can switch between models by changing the model parameter in your requests, without changing your code structure.
Understanding the Payment Model
The aggregator uses a simple pricing structure:
- Users pay official price × 1.3 for each API call.
- Contributors who help improve the platform (e.g., by adding models, writing docs, or referring users) are credited official price × 1.1 (or × 1.2 for premium contributions) in USDC.
This model ensures that you only pay for what you use, with a transparent multiplier. There are no hidden fees or subscriptions.
Managing Your Balance and Keys
Keep an eye on your balance in the dashboard. You can top up again at any time. If you share your keys, you can set spending limits per key to control costs. The aggregator provides usage logs so you can monitor which models are being called and how much they cost.
Conclusion
Getting started without KYC or a bank account is quick and private. By using USDC on Base, you can fund your account and start calling multiple LLMs with a single key. The payment model is straightforward, and contributors can even earn credits. This approach lowers barriers for developers worldwide.