Unexpected Usage Limits for Claude Code Max Users

Since Monday morning, Claude Code Max subscribers have experienced unexpected and restrictive usage limits. Many users on the $200/month Max plan report being blocked despite having significant tokens left in their quota. They receive a vague “Claude usage limit reached” message without any prior warning from Anthropic, leading to confusion and suspicion of account issues or inaccurate usage reporting.

Communication Gaps Increase Frustration

Anthropic has not provided official announcements or updates regarding the tightened limits. This lack of communication has left many users unsure why their usual workflows are being interrupted. Several developers express irritation over being unable to manage or adjust these new restrictions effectively.

Max Plan Message Quotas and Soft Caps

The Max plan offers enhanced usage compared to Pro, with around 900 messages allowed every 5 hours on the $200/month tier and about 225 messages for the $100/month tier (source). However, these are flexible limits based on usage patterns like message and file sizes. Additionally, the Max plan includes a soft cap of approximately 50 sessions per month (about 250 hours), which Anthropic describes as non-strict but designed to ensure fair access.

How the Token Bucket Algorithm Controls Usage Limits

Anthropic uses a token bucket algorithm for rate limiting on Claude and Claude Code APIs. This algorithm manages requests per minute and tokens per minute across input and output, replenishing capacity continuously rather than resetting at fixed intervals. The system enables some bursts of activity while maintaining overall limits.

Developers can build custom rate limiters based on token buckets to avoid unexpected 429 errors and better match usage patterns with plan limits.

User Complaints and Suggestions on GitHub

Many users have shared their concerns on the Claude Code GitHub issues page. A common complaint is the /cost command falsely indicating that Max subscribers don’t need to monitor costs, despite hitting strict usage limits. Suggestions include:

• Updating the cost command to display percentage limits used

• Providing clearer guidance about usage restrictions

• Offering better visibility for API limit adjustments

Summary

Claude Code Max users face new, undocumented usage limits affecting their workflow. Greater transparency from Anthropic and enhanced tooling is needed to improve the user experience and prevent disruptions caused by sudden usage limits.