Plaid Fintech
Patterns
Link Token Creation and Exchange
Create a link_token for Plaid Link, exchange public_token for access_token. Link tokens are short-lived, one-time use. Access tokens don't expire but may need updating when users change passwords.
Transactions Sync
Use /transactions/sync for incremental transaction updates. More efficient than /transactions/get. Handle webhooks for real-time updates instead of polling.
Item Error Handling and Update Mode
Handle ITEM_LOGIN_REQUIRED errors by putting users through Link update mode. Listen for PENDING_DISCONNECT webhook to proactively prompt users.
Anti-Patterns
❌ Storing Access Tokens in Plain Text
❌ Polling Instead of Webhooks
❌ Ignoring Item Errors
⚠️ Sharp Edges
| Issue | Severity | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Issue | critical | See docs |
| Issue | high | See docs |
| Issue | high | See docs |
| Issue | high | See docs |
| Issue | medium | See docs |
| Issue | medium | See docs |
| Issue | medium | See docs |
| Issue | medium | See docs |