name: plaid-fintech
description: "Expert patterns for Plaid API integration including Link token flows, transactions sync, identity verification, Auth for ACH, balance checks, webhook handling, and fintech compliance best practices. Use when: plaid, bank account linking, bank connection, ach, account aggregation."
source: vibeship-spawner-skills (Apache 2.0)

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