Yes. OpenAI includes Codex across ChatGPT plans, including Free and Go. Usage is limited and varies by plan. Codex Cloud is not included with Free or Go. API-key billing is separate from signing in with ChatGPT.
Checked October 11, 2026 against OpenAI’s plan documentation. Free access is not unlimited access. Check your account’s current allowance rather than assuming a fixed number of messages.
What you can use without a paid plan
| Access route | What to check |
|---|---|
| ChatGPT Free or Go sign-in | Codex is included; usage limits vary by plan. |
| Codex Cloud | Not included with Free or Go; paid eligibility and workspace settings apply. |
| API key | Separate API billing, balance and rate limits; not a free ChatGPT allowance. |
| More usage | Check available plans or credits and their current terms before purchase. |
Start with the official client
- Sign in with ChatGPTUse an official Codex client and select ChatGPT sign-in. Do not assume an API key draws from the same allowance.
- Check your usageRead the client usage view or /status in Codex CLI. Note reset times and the exact limit shown.
- Try a small projectReview permissions, generated diffs and tests before allowing a longer run.
- Keep billing explicitOnly enable a paid route after reviewing price, budget and account eligibility.
Free client versus free model usage
A desktop download can be free while model requests are billed. Wuwei is a separate client, not a way to turn an API key into a free Codex subscription. Compare its current hosted terms or your own provider bill with the allowance you already have. Neither route is always cheaper.
FAQ
Can I use Codex for free?
Yes. OpenAI includes Codex with ChatGPT Free, subject to usage limits and account availability.
Is Codex Cloud free?
Free and Go do not include Codex Cloud under the current official plan documentation.
Does a ChatGPT plan include API credits?
Do not assume that it does. API-key billing and ChatGPT sign-in allowances are separate access routes.