AWS Credits with FCAI

AWS promotional credits can significantly reduce your bill. This guide explains how credits work with FCAI, how to verify eligibility, and best practices to maximize usage.

Eligibility

• Startups in AWS Activate or select accelerator/incubator programs often receive credits.
• Credits are account-scoped and time-bounded; check their expiration and applicable services in the AWS Billing console.

Where credits apply

• Credits automatically offset eligible AWS service charges on linked accounts.
• Taxes, support, Marketplace purchases, and certain third‑party charges may be excluded per AWS terms.

Verifying credits

1. Log in to the AWS Billing and Cost Management console.
2. Go to Credits → Active to view remaining balance and expiration.
3. Use Cost Explorer to filter charges after credits to validate impact.

Using credits with FCAI

• FCAI works with your existing AWS Organization or standalone account.
• Credits apply the same way whether you use FCAI’s recommendations or automation; FCAI does not change credit applicability.
• For consolidated billing, ensure the account with credits is correctly linked so credits cascade per AWS rules.

Best practices

• Prioritize workloads eligible for credits before expiration.
• Combine credits with Savings Plans/Reserved Instances for maximum savings.
• Monitor burn rate weekly via Cost Explorer and FCAI dashboards.
• Set budgets/alerts for when credit balance drops below thresholds.

Troubleshooting

• Credits not applying: confirm service eligibility and account linkage.
• Marketplace charges not reduced: most credits exclude Marketplace; verify credit terms.
• Unexpected bill: check credit expiration dates and usage after the expiry.

If you need help validating credits, contact FCAI Support.