Why does the OpenAI key expire so fast?

[AICODEApps]

One of our users registered for an OpenAI API key just now for use in a project, but the key expires in May 1 this year. Why?

Previously, you would’ve received 12 months to spend the $18 grant, but why is it now less than two weeks? Thanks.

[PaulBellow]

How can I get Free Trial Credits?

Yes, it is not only $5. It used to be $18, our internal data showed that people were able to make ~750 API calls with the $5 which was enough to get a feel for how to use the API (which is the whole goal of free trial credits). Also note, you only get free credits for the first account associated with your phone number. Subsequent accounts are not granted free credits.

[AICODEApps]

Thanks. However, some users still receive $18 when they first sign up now, and this does not explain why we have so less time for the free trial.