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What is a rate limit?
A rate limit is a cap on how many requests you can send to a service in a set amount of time.
- Category Building with AI
- Also called rate limiting
- Updated 20 Oct 2026
Rate limit, explained simply
A rate limit stops one user from sending too many requests too fast. If you pass the limit, the service tells you to wait.
It matters because AI services use it to stay fair and stable. You may see an error that says you are sending too many requests.
For example, a free plan might allow only a few messages in a short span. After that, you wait or upgrade.
The fix is usually simple. Slow down, wait a bit, or use a plan with higher limits.
On ITG Now, our free tool guides tell you when a tool may hit a rate limit and how to avoid it.
Related terms
APIAPI keyAPI pricingFreemiumTokens per second
Questions people ask about Rate limit
Why do I get a rate limit error?
You sent too many requests in a short time. Wait a bit and try again.
Can I remove a rate limit?
Not usually, but paid plans often have higher limits. You can also space out your requests.
Is a rate limit the same as a usage cap?
Not exactly. A rate limit is about speed over short time, while a cap is about total use over a longer time.