The basics
How AWS credits work
Credits apply automatically to eligible usage each month until they're used up or expire.
Once approved, credits are added to your AWS account under Billing, in the Credits section. You can see the amount, which services they cover and the expiry date.
Each month AWS calculates your usage as normal, then applies credits to eligible charges before charging your card. If your bill is $800 and you have $5,000 in credits, you pay nothing and $4,200 stays on the balance.
If you have several credit packages, AWS uses the one expiring soonest first. Anything not covered, such as tax in some countries or excluded services, is charged to your card.
Set a billing alert well before the balance runs out. Many startups only notice when the first full bill arrives.
Questions
Do credits cover tax?
It depends on the program and your country. Check the terms of each credit package.
Can credits be used on several accounts?
Yes, if your accounts are in one AWS Organization, credits on the management account can usually be shared.
Prices and credit amounts are estimates and may change. Check AWS for current terms.