FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Getting started

What is Base44

Base44 is an AI-powered platform that lets you turn any idea into a fully-functional custom app, without the need for any coding experience.

Do I need coding experience to use Base44?

No. Our platform is designed to be easily accessible to non-technical users. Just describe your software needs in plain language, and our AI will handle the technical implementation.

What kinds of applications can I build with Base44?

Base44 is versatile and can be used to build a wide range of applications, including but not limited to: personal productivity apps, back-office tools, customer portals, and business process automation tools. You can also use it for rapid prototyping and creating MVPs.

How long does it take to launch something?

Most users can go from idea to live app in minutes.

How do I create my first app?

Just type in your idea and the platform will generate a working version. You can preview, tweak, and iterate right away. 

Creating & editing

What are "credits"?

Credits represent the total number of actions you can take. Each message you send our AI asking it to take an action is one credit. Integration credits are used when a user of the app takes an action that requires the app to leverage integrations. For example, if an action in your app results in an LLM call, that is one integration credit.

Can I edit my app after it's built?

Yes! You can continue prompting through the AI Chat to change functionality, add features, shift layouts, adjust tone, and also republish as many times as you want.

How do I write a good prompt?

Base44 is very good about understanding what you need, but the more details you can provide about what the app should do, who it’s for, and what features matter most, the better. If it’s important to you, make sure to include it. We have a Prompting guide to help.

What should I do if my app doesn’t turn out how I imagined?

Try rephrasing your prompt or adding details. The platform is built for iteration, and the more you experiment, the better the results will be.

Can I create a copy of my app?

Yes, go to Settings → App Settings → Clone App → Create Copy. A duplicate version will instantly open on your screen. You will be able to access your cloned app on your Apps page, marked with the suffix (Copy). 

Why were credits deducted for AI mistakes, and how do I request a refund or reset?

Unfortunately, we’re unable to refund credits for tool behavior.

If something is still unresolved or you need further assistance, we’re here to help. Please contact support with a detailed description of the issue, including screenshots and a link to the app. Submit a ticket through our support form.

Publishing & sharing

How are Base44 applications deployed?

We take care of it automatically. Base44 comes with built-in hosting, so there’s no deployment process. When your app is created, it’s instantly live and shareable.

How do I share my app?

Click the share icon on the upper right side of the screen, where you’ll be able to  copy the app’s URL or send an invitation to someone via email. 

How do I control the privacy of my app?

Base44 gives full control over who can access your application. You can choose one of three simple settings:

• Private: only invited users can access after logging in
• Public (login required):  anyone can access through the link but they must log in first
• Public (no login required): anyone can access without logging in  

Can I manage user logins and sign ups?

Absolutely. Base44 comes with a complete authentication system. You can easily set up secure logins using email and password, or configure your app for single sign-on.

Can I control what different users can see and do in my app?

Yes. Base44 makes it easy to manage permissions. You can create different user roles, like ‘Admin,’ ‘Editor,’ or ‘Viewer,’ and then decide exactly what each role is allowed to access. 

Can I export my app?

Yes, you can export your full application at any time. Click “See all files” at the upper right section of the screen. From there, you can choose to export to a ZipFile or to GitHub. Please note that this is a premium feature that is only available in Builder, Pro, and Elite plans.

Can I connect a custom domain?

Yes, on the Builder, Pro, and Elite plans. 

How do I deploy my app to a custom domain?

You have two ways to connect your Base44 app to a custom domain:

1. Buy a new domain through Base44
   • Go to Dashboard → Domains
   • Click Buy domain and search for the name you want
   • Complete checkout and we’ll connect it automatically (no DNS setup needed)
   • Your app will be live on your new domain in about 5–30 minutes
2. Use a domain you already own
   • Go to Dashboard → Domains
   • Click Add domain and enter your existing domain
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to update your DNS records at your domain provider
   • Once connected, your app will be accessible through your domain (allow up to 48–72 hours for DNS to fully update)

You can learn more about custom domains in our guide.

Please note that custom domain is a premium feature that is only available in Builder, Pro, and Elite plans.

Can I upload my app to the App Store or Google Play?

With Base44 you can build and publish your app. However, currently, Base44 apps are designed for the web and can’t be directly uploaded to the App Store or Google Play. We’re actively exploring options for native app export (iOS/Android), so please feel free to support this feature request.

Can I get help or a consultation to review my Base44 app?

Base44 does not currently offer direct consultations or app review services. However, you are welcome to join our Discord community. It’s a great space to connect with other Base44 users who can share advice, feedback, and tips from their own projects.

Can I charge people to use my Base44 app?

Yes, you can charge people to use your app if you are on the Builder plan or higher and have backend functions turned on. You can connect a payment provider, such as Stripe or another service that supports APIs, to accept payments from your app users. Use the Secrets tab to securely store your API keys.

If you need help setting up payments, ask the AI chat for assistance with your chosen provider, or follow the Stripe integration guide for step-by-step instructions.

Billing & upgrades

For more details on Billing, plans and credits, check out the Billing, Plans and Credits page

What’s included in the free plan?

You get enough credits to build, iterate and publish an app. Perfect for trying things out.

What happens when I run out of credits?

You can wait for next month, share your app for free bonus credits (details inside the platform), or upgrade to continue building right away.

Do unused credits roll over?

No, they reset each month. Any unused credits do not carry over.

What is the difference between plans?

Paid plans include more credits, advanced features like custom builds, file export, Github integration, and backend functions (see more details in the Integrations section below). Pro and Elite plans also include access to beta features and premium support. See more here.

How do I cancel my subscription?

Head over to your Billing Dashboard, click on Manage Payments and select a “Cancel Subscription” button underneath your plan. Your plan will remain active until the end of the current billing cycle. For more questions about your subscription, check out the Billing, Plans and Credits page.

How do I redeem a coupon code?

You can apply a coupon or promo code right from your billing dashboard:

1. Click your profile icon and select Billing

2. Scroll below the Plan Options section

3. Click “Have a coupon code”

4. Enter your code and click Apply

   

If the coupon is valid, you’ll see the discount reflected in your billing summary right away.

Note: Coupon codes can only be applied before confirming a plan change or renewal. They can’t be added retroactively.

Will my app stay live if I cancel my paid subscription?

When you cancel your paid subscription, your app is downgraded to the free plan. Your app stays live, but you may lose access to features only available with paid plans.

Troubleshooting errors

Why am I seeing a "Failed to load app: Error serializing to JSON: UnicodeEncodeError" message when opening my app in the builder?

This error can happen if your app name contains an emoji or a special character that is not supported. When this error occurs, you will not be able to open the builder or rename your app. If you encounter this issue, please contact Base44 support so the team can help escalate your case.

How do I resolve SSL setup issues or an ERR_SSL_PROTOCOL_ERROR?

If you see SSL errors or ERR_SSL_PROTOCOL_ERROR after setting up your custom domain, try these steps:

• Make sure your domain’s DNS records match exactly what is shown in your Base44 dashboard.
• Remove any AAAA (IPv6) records from your DNS settings—they can block connections.
• Double-check for typos or missing values in your DNS entries.
• Ensure both the www and root domain point to the correct Base44 addresses.
• Confirm your domain registration is active and has been verified.
• Allow up to 72 hours for DNS and SSL changes to take effect around the world.
• If your domain uses a DNS service like Cloudflare, update records there directly.

If the problem persists, you can submit a ticket through our support form. Please include a screenshot of your DNS records, your domain name, and a link to your Base44 app.

Security, privacy & integrations

Is my data secure with Base44?

Yes, we take data security very seriously. User management and authentication systems are built-in, using best-in-class, industry-standard encryption and security practices to protect your data and your users’ information.

What integrations are supported?

Most common integrations are already built into the platform. You can directly send emails, use SMS, connect to any external API, and query databases right out of the box, no complex setup required.

Can I connect external APIs (like Stripe, Google Analytics) using backend functions?

Yes, Base44 lets you connect with any external API including platforms like Google Calendar, Stripe, and more. This lets you send notifications, process payments, and share data with tools you already rely on. Please note that this is a premium feature that is only available in Builder, Pro, and Elite plans.

How do I delete my app?

In the Dashboard section of your app, click on Settings → App Settings → and scroll to “Danger Zone.” This will enable you to permanently remove this app and all its data.

Note: This is an irreversible action

Why do I need to add an API key to use integrations?

Most integrations require a secure “API key” or token to connect your Base44 app to your account with another service (like Notion, OpenAI, or Stripe).

You’ll generate this key yourself, and Base44 will store it safely as a Secret so your app can use it when needed, but no one else can see it.

Think of it like a personal access pass: you create it, and Base44 handles the rest.

Why can't Base44 or the AI fetch my API key for me?

For security reasons, external services like Stripe, OpenAI, or Notion don’t let third parties (even Base44) access your credentials automatically.

Instead, you need to:

1. Log in to the service
2. Go to the API or developer section
3. Generate your key
4. Paste it into Base44 as a Secret

Once added, your app can use that key behind the scenes — safely and without code.

**Why this matters: **API keys are like passwords for services. Keeping them private and user-controlled keeps your data safe and ensures only you authorize access.

Does Base44 use our prompts or data to train models?

No. Base44 does not use your prompts or data to train any public models. All input remains securely within your environment.

Best practices & tips

Can I get help writing prompts?

Absolutely! We have a prompting guide, and sample recipes in our prompt library.

How do I get feedback on my app?

Hop into Discord and share your app link in the #🌟showcase  channel, and ask the community for some thoughts. 

How can I make my app look and feel more professional?

A few small touches can go a long way. Give your app a clear name and description, pick a cohesive color scheme, and write user-friendly copy. You can also add helpful navigation, clean up any placeholder text, and make sure your app works well on mobile. If you’re ready to go even further, connect a custom domain to give your project a polished, branded home.

Community & support

Where can I get help?

We have more resources in our Docs and FAQ section, and a super helpful Discord community. Plus, you can open a support ticket anytime.

How do I contact support?

Submit a ticket through our support form. 

Is there a public roadmap?

Yes, you can find it here.

Where can I give feedback or request features?

Submit your ideas on our Feedback page or via Discord (in our #💡feature-requests channel).