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

# Cline Provider

> Use the Cline Provider for pay-as-you-go model access with built-in authentication and Cline credits.

The **Cline Provider** is the simplest way to get started with pay-as-you-go model access in Cline.

Instead of managing separate API keys across multiple vendors, you sign in once, add **Cline credits**, and select from available models directly in Cline.

If you want a flat monthly subscription for selected open coding models with higher rate limits, use [ClinePass (beta)](/getting-started/clinepass) instead. ClinePass (beta) is a separate provider in Cline.

## Why use Cline Provider

* **Fastest setup**: no manual API key copy/paste
* **One account**: sign in once with Google, GitHub, or email
* **Pay as you go**: add Cline credits and use one balance across supported models
* **Free options**: look for models tagged **FREE** in the selector

## How it works

The Cline Provider is the pay-as-you-go provider in Cline. Add Cline credits, then select **Cline** wherever you configure your provider.

* **IDE Extension**: Go to IDE extension settings, set **API Provider** to **Cline**, and sign in.
* **CLI**: Go to `/settings` and select **Cline** as your provider.

## Credits and usage

* Add **Cline credits** from your [Cline dashboard](https://app.cline.bot/dashboard)
* Credits are used on a pay-as-you-go basis when you select paid models through the Cline Provider
* View usage in Cline Settings → **View Usage**
* Switch organizations in Cline Settings → **Switch Organization**

## Related

* [Authorization](/getting-started/authorizing-with-cline)
* [ClinePass (beta)](/getting-started/clinepass)
* [Local models](/running-models-locally/overview)
* [Provider setup guides](/provider-config/openrouter)