> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guide.ellieplanner.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guide.ellieplanner.com/features/integrations/mcp-and-api-access.md).

# MCP and API Access

Connect Ellie to compatible AI clients and third-party automations.

MCP / API Access provides the connection settings for compatible AI clients and third-party automation tools.

{% hint style="info" %}
MCP/API access is currently configured from Ellie on web or desktop. It is not currently available in the iPhone or iPad app.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
MCP access is currently in beta. Treat your generated URL and API key like a password. Anyone who has them may be able to access your Ellie data.
{% endhint %}

## Turn on access

1. Open **Settings → Power Features**.
2. Turn on **MCP / API Access**.
3. Open the **MCP / API Access** settings page.

![Ellie's authentic web MCP and API settings with the production endpoint, setup example, and API token section.](https://3852134662-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FnmZdEkTM0SErtqWxGTII%2Fuploads%2FETgQ0xtfwPn6BtBZINDf%2Fellie-web-mcp-api-settings-green-light-v1-16x9.jpg?alt=media)

## Connect an MCP client

Ellie shows an MCP base URL, an access mode, optional tool permissions, and a client setup example.

1. Choose **Read-only**, **Write-only**, or **Read + write**.
2. Optionally choose individual allowed tools. Leave the field empty to allow every tool permitted by the access mode.
3. Add the generated MCP URL to your client.
4. Provide your Ellie API token through the `x-api-key` header. The **Copy setup** action includes the token after you generate one.

Only enable the tools you want that client to use. Access-mode and allowed-tool choices are encoded in the generated URL; the API token is supplied separately. If a copied setup or token is exposed, generate a new API key and replace the old connection.

## Connect Zapier or another API client

Use the API key shown on the same settings page when an integration asks for your Ellie API token. See the [Zapier Integration](/features/integrations/zapier-integration.md) guide for a complete example.

## Beta support

If an MCP client cannot connect or a tool behaves unexpectedly, email <chris@aloa.co> with the client name and the action you were trying to perform. Do not include your generated URL or API key.