API Error: Rate limit reached on Max plan despite no heavy usage

Environment

• Claude Code version: 2.1.49
• OS: macOS 26.3 (Build 25D5087f)
• Architecture: arm64 (Apple Silicon)
• Node: v25.6.1
• Install method: Homebrew cask
• Plan: Max (Claude subscription)

Description

Receiving API Error: Rate limit reached when using Claude Code CLI. On Max subscription plan and have not hit usage limits. Suspect transient server-side rate limiting issue.

Timestamp (UTC)

2026-02-23T15:38:15Z

Steps to reproduce

1. Run claude in terminal
2. Send a prompt
3. Receive API Error: Rate limit reached immediately

Expected behavior

Request should be processed normally within Max plan limits.

Actual behavior

Rate limit error returned despite being within plan quota.