Connect FlyExpense to Claude AI
FlyExpense offers a read-only server powered by the Model Context Protocol (MCP). Connect from claude.ai web in seconds with OAuth 2.1, or use a token for Claude Desktop and Cursor.
What is the Model Context Protocol?
MCP is an open protocol that lets AI assistants connect to external systems in a standard, secure way. The FlyExpense MCP server is read-only: assistants can view cards, expenses, bills, and reports, cannot modify any data, and all access is isolated to your organization.
claude.ai web setup (online)
Connect straight from your browser with nothing to install. You don't need to create a token.
- In claude.ai, open Settings → Connectors → Add custom connector
- Give it a name and paste the FlyExpense MCP server URL
- Click Add and sign in with your FlyExpense account
- Grant access and the connection is ready
Claude Desktop & Cursor setup
For desktop tools, create an MCP token (mcp_) on the Developer page and add it to the tool's MCP configuration as an Authorization: Bearer header.
How it works behind the scenes
The claude.ai web connection runs on the OAuth 2.1 flow: discovery (RFC 9728/8414), dynamic client registration (RFC 7591), authorization and consent with PKCE (RFC 7636), then exchange of a short-lived access token plus refresh token with rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MCP (Model Context Protocol)?
MCP is an open protocol that lets AI assistants securely access data and tools in external systems. FlyExpense provides a read-only MCP server so AI assistants can query your finance data in natural language.
Do I need to create a token to connect from claude.ai web?
No. For the claude.ai web (online) connection you don't need to create a token; you sign in with your FlyExpense account and grant access during the connection (OAuth 2.1). The token method is only required for desktop tools like Claude Desktop and Cursor.
Which Claude plans are supported?
Custom Connectors are available on Claude Pro, Max, Team, and Enterprise plans. The free plan may not have the option to add a custom connector.
Can the AI assistant change my data?
No. The FlyExpense MCP server is read-only. The assistant can view cards, expenses, bills, and similar data, but it cannot create, update, or delete anything.
Is the connection secure?
Yes. The connection is protected with OAuth 2.1 + PKCE, tokens are bound to your organization, sign-in happens on FlyExpense's own screen, and two-factor authentication (2FA) is supported.
Do my existing mcp_ tokens still work?
Yes. The long-lived mcp_ tokens and session tokens you created for desktop tools keep working. OAuth is simply an additional method added for the claude.ai web connection.