Programmable API Billing
Prepaid credits. Metered usage. On-chain settlement.
The payment infrastructure APIs deserve.
How it works
Fund Your Wallet
Deposit USDC into your smart wallet. Funds are held securely on-chain until you use them.
Make API Calls
Each request is metered and signed. Usage is tracked in real-time with cryptographic proofs.
Auto-Settlement
Charges are batched and settled on-chain. One transaction covers thousands of API calls.
The payment flow
Under the hood
Tech Stack
Settlement
const session = await drip.createSession({
provider: "api.example.com",
budget: 100 // max $100 for this session
});
// Each API call is automatically metered
const response = await fetch(url, {
headers: { "X-Drip-Session": session.id }
});Why this matters
Non-custodial by design
Your funds stay in your smart wallet. We never hold your money—only deduct what you authorize.
Cryptographic usage proofs
Every API call generates a signed receipt. Disputes are resolved by math, not customer support.
Sub-cent transactions
Batch settlement on L2 means you can pay $0.0001 per call without fees eating your budget.
Instant refunds
Unused balance is always withdrawable. No waiting periods, no approval needed.
Traditional vs Drip
Traditional Billing
Drip
FAQ
What is a smart wallet?
A smart wallet is a programmable blockchain account. It can hold funds and automatically authorize payments based on rules you set—like spending limits per API or auto-top-up thresholds.
How does metering work?
Each API call includes a signed usage receipt. These receipts are batched together and settled on-chain periodically, so you get per-call billing without per-call transaction fees.
What happens if I run out of credits?
API access pauses until you top up. There's no overdraft or debt—you can only spend what you've deposited. Low balance alerts help you stay ahead.
How is this different from Stripe?
Stripe charges 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction, making micropayments impossible. Drip uses prepaid credits and batch settlement, so a $0.001 charge actually costs $0.001.
Is my money safe?
Funds are held in audited smart contracts on Base (Ethereum L2). You control your wallet with your private key—we can't access or freeze your funds.