# Getting Started

> Create your Blockonomics account, connect a wallet, get your API key, and start accepting crypto payments.

Source: https://developers.blockonomics.co/docs/guides/getting-started
Last updated: 2026-09-11

## Crypto Wallet

You need an existing crypto wallet before using Blockonomics.

[Chui Wallet](https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/chui-wallet/ieiamigkafflgljicfmnjnfmgjgemphn) is recommended. It is a browser extension wallet that holds Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT (ETH ERC-20), so one wallet covers every currency Blockonomics supports.

Blockonomics is non-custodial: funds go directly to your wallet, never held by Blockonomics.

## Sign up at Blockonomics

[Sign up at blockonomics.co](https://www.blockonomics.co). Creating an account is free.

## Authentication

The Blockonomics API uses **Bearer token authentication**. Your API key is passed in the `Authorization` header on every request that requires authentication.

```
Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY
```

To get your API key:

1. Log into [blockonomics.co](https://www.blockonomics.co)
2. Go to **Stores** in the dashboard
3. Copy the API key shown on that page

Keep your API key secret. Do not expose it in client-side code or public repositories.

## Rotating Your API Key

Rotate your key if it's ever compromised or as a routine security measure:

1. In the dashboard, go to **Stores**
2. Click the refresh icon — a new API key is generated immediately
3. Update your application with the new key
4. Verify your integration still works before discarding the old key

## Next Steps

- [API Reference](/docs/search/getbalance) — full endpoint documentation
- [Receiving Payments](/docs/guides/receiving-payments) — accept BTC and USDT on your site
- [Callbacks](/docs/guides/callbacks) — receive real-time payment notifications