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Use Marqeta’s Core API to launch and manage your company’s payment card program. The Core API is RESTful, so it uses HTTP methods (POST, PUT, GET) to perform functions on objects. For example, to create a new user object, you send a POST request to the /users endpoint. Some requests include data in their message body, for example to define the attributes of the object being created or updated, and the Core API requires that this data be in JSON format. You should assume that all calls and other interactions with the Marqeta platform expect case-sensitive input, unless indicated otherwise. For more on reporting, see About Reporting. Ready to start building? The Core API Quick Start includes a hands-on tutorial that helps you create the basic Marqeta platform resources.

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Understanding API objects

The Core API includes objects on which you can call methods that result in, for example, issuing payment cards and customizing card behavior. Some important Core API objects include:
  • card – represents a payment card (physical or virtual) for conducting transactions.
  • user – represents a person who uses a payment card.
  • gpaorder – used to load funds into an account.
  • fundingsource – represents the source from which a gpaorder object draws funds.

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Accessing sandbox environments

The Marqeta platform provides a sandbox environment where you can explore the capabilities of the Core API. There are two types of sandbox environments available: Public sandbox: A single-user environment where you can begin building your program. Public sandbox users are typically potential customers who are evaluating Marqeta as a partner in their application.
  • Public sandboxes are created when you create an account and then sign in to it - both done via the Public Sandbox button on this site.
Private sandbox: A multi-user environment where you can integrate your application with the Marqeta platform. Marqeta customers use the private sandbox and its connected microservices to validate their application’s integration, as well as ongoing API changes.
  • Private sandboxes are provisioned for you once you become a customer. Your credentials will be sent to you. Private sandboxes have simulation capabilities that the public sandbox does not.
Funds and transactions are simulated in both types of sandbox environments. Depending on your integration, the sandbox might give you access to features not available in production environments. The base URL for the public sandbox environment is:
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Accessing production environments

Each Marqeta customer who enters into an agreement to receive Marqeta’s services will access the API and operate within an individually tailored production environment called a program. To access the API in production, use the unique base URL for your program. Be sure to update any tests or code samples with the correct base URL. For example:
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