The basics
What are AWS credits?
Most startups can get somewhere between $1,000 and $200,000 in AWS credits.
AWS credits are a promotional balance that Amazon Web Services applies to your monthly bill. Instead of your card being charged, eligible usage is taken off the credit balance until it runs out or expires.
They are not cash and can't be withdrawn or transferred. They only cover usage on the AWS account they are added to, and only for the services listed in the credit terms.
AWS hands out credits to lower the cost of trying its platform: to startups through AWS Activate, to companies moving from another cloud, to researchers, nonprofits and to teams testing a new service.
Questions
Do AWS credits show up on my bill?
Yes. Your bill lists the full usage cost, then a line that subtracts the credits applied.
Can I sell or transfer AWS credits?
No. Credits are tied to one account and reselling them breaks the AWS terms.
Prices and credit amounts are estimates and may change. Check AWS for current terms.