Anthropic changes policy for third-party harnesses: What it means for Claude users
Starting April 4, 2026, Claude subscription limits no longer apply to third-party harnesses like OpenClaw. Extra usage will be billed separately. Claude Code and Claude Cowork are not affected.
If you use third-party harnesses like OpenClaw, turn on 'extra usage' in your account settings before April 4 to avoid interruption.
Anthropic has announced a significant policy change for third-party harnesses (tools that connect to Claude using your subscription). Starting April 4 at 12pm PT / 8pm BST, you will no longer be able to use your Claude subscription limits for third-party harnesses including OpenClaw.
You can still use third-party harnesses with your Claude account, but they will require extra usage, a pay-as-you-go option billed separately from your subscription.
Your subscription still covers all Claude products, including Claude Code and Claude Cowork. To keep using third-party harnesses with your Claude login, you need to turn on extra usage for your account.
To make the transition easier, Anthropic is offering a one-time credit for extra usage equal to your monthly subscription price. Redeem by April 17. They're also introducing discounts on pre-purchased extra usage bundles (up to 30%).
Wichtigste Erkenntnisse
- Claude Code and Claude Cowork are NOT affected
- Only third-party harnesses (like OpenClaw) are affected
- One-time credit available. Redeem by April 17
- Up to 30% discount on pre-purchased extra usage bundles
Was solltest du tun?
- 1Check if you use any third-party harnesses
- 2Enable 'extra usage' in your Claude account settings if needed
- 3Redeem your one-time credit before April 17
- 4Consider pre-purchasing bundles for up to 30% discount