[Bug/Support] Gemini API projects stuck at Tier 1 despite ~$485 cumulative Google Cloud spend

Gemini API
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1

Hi, I’m looking for help with what seems to be a persistent Gemini API billing tier issue.

I have two Gemini API projects under the same Google Cloud Billing account. Both were previously on Tier 2, but they were unexpectedly downgraded to Tier 1 in early April 2026 and have remained there ever since.

Before the downgrade, I had already accumulated about US$299.83 in Google Cloud spending. Since then, the billing account has successfully paid another US$185.30:

  • May 1: $40.53

  • June 1: $33.20

  • July 1: $36.42

  • August 3: $43.44

  • October 1: $31.71

So the total cumulative spend is now about US$485.13.

Even if the earlier spending history had somehow been reset when the downgrade happened, the account had already accumulated more than $100 in new successful payments by July 1. Based on the current Tier 2 requirements, I would have expected the projects to become eligible again months ago, but both are still stuck at Tier 1.

I reported this issue earlier and was told it would be investigated internally, but the tier was never restored. At this point, I’m wondering whether the tier entitlement for the billing account or projects has become stuck or out of sync with the billing system.

Could someone from the Gemini API / Google AI team please help check this internally? I can provide the Billing Account ID and Project IDs privately if needed.

Thanks.

2

Hello @Cook_Sleep ,

DM’ed you for more details.

3

Hello @Cook_Sleep ,

This tier restriction is likely happening because of an automated flag on your account. Please check for any banners or error callouts on the AI Studio Projects page and Billing page, as well as the email inbox associated with your project, which usually include concrete next steps or appeal links.

If no banner or appeal link is visible on those pages, please reach out to us.