Purpose:
The term "RATE_LIMIT_REACHED" is used when an application sends too many API requests within a minute.
If you or your customers come across an HTTP 429 Unprocessable Entity - RATE_LIMIT_REACHED message, it implies that an unusually high number of API requests have been submitted within a minute. This could suggest an unusual activity. Hence, PayPal temporarily limits access to maintain site stability.
Example of API Error Response:
{
"name": "RATE_LIMIT_REACHED",
"message": "Too many requests. Blocked due to rate limiting.",
“debug_id": “xxxxxxxxxxxxx"
}
Solution:
To prevent this issue, reduce the frequency of API requests your application sends each minute.
- Rather than generate an OAuth 2.0 access token for each transaction, cache tokens. See OAuth 2.0 authorization protocol.
- If you are utilizing GET API calls to track transaction updates, use webhooks or IPN which will be sent directly to your system.
For any additional questions or concerns, contact the PayPal Technical Support team by submitting a ticket from here.
