How to set up KuCoin Futures API keys?

To securely use KuCoin Futures API keys, create them via API Management, enable 2FA, set proper permissions, and store keys in environment variables—not in code.

Jul 25, 2025 at 06:43 pm

Understanding KuCoin Futures API Keys

KuCoin Futures API keys are essential for developers, traders, and bots that interact with the KuCoin Futures trading platform programmatically. These keys allow you to place orders, retrieve account information, and manage positions without manual intervention. To use them securely, you must create a key pair consisting of an API key and a secret key. Each key must be stored in a secure environment to prevent unauthorized access to your funds or trading activities.

Accessing the KuCoin Futures API Dashboard

To begin, log into your KuCoin account via the official website. Navigate to the top-right corner and click on your profile icon. Select "API Management" from the dropdown menu. This section is where all your API keys—both for spot and futures—are created and managed. If you haven’t enabled two-factor authentication (2FA), you must do so before proceeding. 2FA is mandatory for API creation on KuCoin as a security measure.

Creating a New Futures API Key

Once in the API Management section:

• Click on "Create API".
• Select "Futures API" from the available options.
• Enter a name for your API key (e.g., "TradingBot_Futures").
• Choose the IP whitelist if needed—this restricts API usage to specific IP addresses.
• Check the permissions: ensure "Trade" and "Read" are enabled if you want to execute orders and view account data.
• Click "Create".
  

  You’ll then receive a pop-up displaying your API key and secret key. This is the only time both keys are shown, so save them immediately in a secure location like a password manager or encrypted file.

  Configuring API Keys for Trading Bots or Scripts

  
  To use these keys in a trading bot or Python script:
• Store the API key and secret in environment variables or a configuration file outside your codebase.

• Example in Python:

  import os
  from kucoin.client import Client
  api_key = os.getenv('KUCOIN_API_KEY')
  api_secret = os.getenv('KUCOIN_API_SECRET')

• When initializing the KuCoin Futures client, ensure the passphrase matches the one you set during API creation—if any.

  Testing Your KuCoin Futures API Connection

  
  After setting up, test the connection to confirm it works:

• Use the get_account_overview() method to fetch your futures account balance.

• Example:

  try:
      account_info = client.futures.get_account_overview()
      print("API connected successfully:", account_info)
  except Exception as e:

• Regularly review your API keys under "API Management".
• Revoke any unused or compromised keys immediately.
• Rotate keys periodically for high-security setups—create a new key, update your bot, then delete the old one.
• If you suspect a breach, disable the key and contact KuCoin support.
• Do not share your secret key or passphrase with anyone—even support staff should never ask for them.
  

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  Frequently Asked Questions

  Q: Can I use the same API key for both KuCoin Spot and Futures?
  
  No. KuCoin requires separate API keys for Spot and Futures trading. Using a Spot API key for Futures will result in permission errors. Always create a dedicated Futures API key when connecting to the Futures endpoint.

  Q: What should I do if I lose my secret key after creating the API?
  
  You cannot recover a lost secret key. You must delete the existing API key and create a new one. Update your bot or application with the new credentials immediately after creation.

  Q: Why does my API request return a “Permission Denied” error?
  
  This usually means the selected permissions during API creation were insufficient. Ensure “Trade” and “Read” permissions are enabled for order placement and account data access. Also, verify you’re using the correct endpoint (Futures vs. Spot).

  Q: Is it safe to use my API key on a VPS or cloud server?
  
  Yes, if the server is secure. Restrict API usage to the VPS IP via the IP whitelist, and never expose keys in logs or public repositories. Use environment variables or encrypted storage to protect credentials.