Microsoft now bills some advanced Copilot features, like Cowork and Autopilot, by usage with Copilot Credits, on top of your plan. Here's what's included, what's extra, and how to control spend, from Microsoft's own page.
If your business uses Microsoft 365 with Copilot, there's a billing detail worth knowing. Here's what Microsoft's small-business Copilot page says, checked on Oct 28, 2026.
What's included vs. extra. Microsoft says everyday AI, like chat and Copilot in your Microsoft 365 apps, is included with your license. More advanced AI experiences are billed based on usage. Today, Microsoft lists Copilot Cowork, Code, Autopilot, and the Work IQ APIs, and says more usage-based services may be added over time.
What Cowork and Autopilot do. Microsoft describes Cowork as something you give a goal and context, so it can plan, execute, and deliver work from start to finish. Autopilot takes a role and a goal and handles ongoing work, following up while your attention is elsewhere.
How it's billed. Microsoft says these experiences use Copilot Credits, so you pay based on actual usage. Charges apply only when the usage-based experiences are used. Microsoft's licensing pages have the current price per credit.
How to control spend. Microsoft says administrators can manage usage-based billing in Cost Management in the Microsoft 365 admin center, and adjust usage controls and spending policies.
Other notes from the page: Microsoft 365 Business Premium with Copilot is listed as an annual subscription that auto-renews, and once a paid subscription begins, there's a 7-day cancellation window for a prorated refund.
What this means for you: First, check who in your business can turn on Cowork or Autopilot. Next, set a spending policy in the admin center before you try them. Then, review your usage after the first month.
Comparing pricing models across tools? See our guide to how AI agent pricing works.
Sources
- Microsoft Copilot for small business — product page and FAQ (checked Oct 28, 2026)