OpenAI is merging the ChatGPT and Codex usage limit into a single allowance. Starting in December 2026, Plus, Pro and Business subscribers will draw from one token-based pool for both ChatGPT and Codex, instead of separate limits for each, according to an updated OpenAI help center article dated October 31.
What’s Changing
Right now, ChatGPT and Codex have their own usage caps. From December, eligible usage from both will come out of the same allowance, measured in tokens. That means heavy Codex sessions could leave less room for advanced ChatGPT chats, and vice versa.
- Plans covered: Plus, Pro and Business.
- Start date: December 2026. OpenAI has not given an exact day.
- How it’s measured: in tokens, so complex tasks use more of the allowance than simple ones.
What Won’t Count Against the Limit
Ordinary chats with ChatGPT’s Instant model will not draw from the shared allowance. Conversations with more advanced models and Codex tasks will. This keeps quick everyday questions free of the cap while heavier reasoning and coding work is metered.
How to Check Your Usage
Subscribers will be able to see their combined remaining usage and reset times in ChatGPT Settings, under Usage. When you hit the limit, you can wait for the reset, upgrade your plan, or buy extra credits. OpenAI has not published credit pricing in the help article.
What We Still Don’t Know
- How large each plan’s allowance will be.
- How chat tokens and Codex tokens convert into the shared pool.
- How the change affects Free, Go and Enterprise plans.
Why It Matters for Marketers and SEO Teams
Many SEO and content teams use ChatGPT for research and drafting and Codex for scripts, audits and site fixes. A shared pool makes usage easier to track, but teams that lean on both may hit limits sooner. It’s worth reviewing how your team uses each tool before December.
The change follows a busy stretch for OpenAI, including GPT-6.1 Sol at DevDay, GPT-6.1 Terra and the global expansion of ChatGPT Ads. It also comes as OpenAI reportedly lowers its funding target.
Key Takeaways
- From December 2026, ChatGPT and Codex share one token-based usage allowance on Plus, Pro and Business.
- Instant model chats don’t count; advanced models and Codex do.
- Usage and reset times will show in Settings, with credits available after the limit.
Sources: OpenAI Help Center, via CellCog and The Neuron.
