> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://springstreet.gitbook.io/springstreet.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://springstreet.gitbook.io/springstreet.io/api/getting-started/authentication.md).

# Authentication

Authentication is handled via an API key. You must include your provided API key in the x-api-key header for all requests. Requests without a valid API key will be rejected with a 403 Forbidden error. For more information, see [Errors](/springstreet.io/api/getting-started/errors.md)

### Requesting your API Key

In order to receive your API key, please contact <hello@springstreet.io>

### Header Example

```
x-api-key: YOUR_API_KEY_VALUE
```

### Example Request

Here is an example using `cURL` to demonstrate how to include the header. All client libraries and tools (like Postman) will have a method for setting custom request headers.

Bash

```bash
curl --location 'https://api.springstreet.io/debtors/search?name=ABC%20Corporation' \
--header 'x-api-key: YOUR_API_KEY'
```

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