> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.lerian.studio/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Creating an Account Type

> Create a new Account Type in the Console to classify Accounts and enforce validation used by Accounting Routes when transactions are recorded.

Account Types classify Accounts. Accounting Routes use these types to define which accounts an operation can use. Create them before Accounts if you enabled **Validate Account Type** for the Ledger.

## Before you start

***

You need an existing Organization and Ledger. If you cannot see the Account Types menu, enable **Validate Account Type** in [Ledger Settings](/en/midaz/console/managing-ledgers-via-console#ledger-settings).

Define Account Types from the accounting model, not from individual customer names. Examples: `customer`, `merchant`, `treasury`, `fee`, `settlement`, `revenue`, `expense`.

## Create the Account Type

***

<Steps>
  <Step>
    From the **Account Types** page, click the **New Account Type** button.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    The **New Account Type** form will open on the right side of the screen.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Fill in the information and click the **Save** button.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Field guide

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| Field             | What to enter                                                                                                | Example                                                                       |
| ----------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Account Type Name | Clear operator-facing name for this Account Type.                                                            | `Customer`                                                                    |
| Description       | Optional explanation of when operators should use this type.                                                 | `Accounts that represent end customers and can send or receive BRL payments.` |
| Key Value         | Stable value used to classify Accounts and route rules. Use a short lowercase value that will remain stable. | `customer`                                                                    |

<Tip>
  Accounts and Accounting Routes reference the **Key Value**. Keep it short, lowercase, and aligned with your accounting model. You cannot change it after you create the Account Type. To use a different value, create a replacement Account Type, recreate dependent Accounts with the new type, and update dependent routes.
</Tip>

## What to do next

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After creating Account Types, create Accounts and select the correct type in [Creating an Account](/en/midaz/console/creating-an-account).

<Card title="API equivalent" type="tip" horizontal>
  [Create an Account Type endpoint](/en/reference/midaz/create-an-account-type)
</Card>