Get Sorry you are not allowed to create posts as this user when using WP Rest API and Application Password

“Sorry, you are not allowed to create posts as this user” Error with WP REST API and Application Passwords: Causes and Solutions

Encountering the “Sorry, you are not allowed to create posts as this user” error while using the WordPress REST API with Application Passwords can be frustrating. This article will delve into the common causes behind this error and provide practical solutions to overcome it.

Understanding the Error:

This error typically arises when the user associated with the Application Password lacks the necessary permissions to create posts. While Application Passwords provide authentication for API access, they are not a substitute for proper user roles and capabilities within WordPress.

Common Causes:

• Insufficient User Role: The user associated with the Application Password may not have the “Editor” or “Author” role required to publish posts.
• Plugin Interference: Certain plugins, particularly those related to security or user management, might restrict post creation through the API.
• Custom Code Conflicts: Custom code or plugins that modify user permissions or API behavior can lead to unexpected access limitations.
• Incorrect API Endpoint: Using the wrong API endpoint for post creation might result in permission errors.

Troubleshooting and Solutions:

1. Verify User Roles:
   • Login to your WordPress dashboard: Navigate to Users > All Users.
   • Check the user’s role: Ensure the user linked to the Application Password has at least the “Editor” or “Author” role. If not, assign the appropriate role.
2. Disable Plugins:
   • Deactivate plugins one by one: Temporarily disable each plugin and test whether the error persists. If the error disappears, the disabled plugin is likely the culprit. You can then investigate the plugin’s settings or seek assistance from its developer.
3. Check Custom Code:
   • Review custom code and plugins: Inspect any custom code or plugins that modify user permissions or API interactions. Look for restrictions related to API access or post creation.
4. Use the Correct API Endpoint:
   • Ensure the correct endpoint is used: The correct endpoint for creating posts is /wp/v2/posts. If you’re using a different endpoint, ensure its documentation specifies the required permissions for post creation.
5. Grant Specific Capabilities:
   • Grant the “edit_posts” capability: For finer control, you can grant specific capabilities to the user associated with the Application Password. The “edit_posts” capability allows users to create, edit, and delete posts. You can manage capabilities in the User > All Users screen under the “Capabilities” tab.
6. Use a Different API Authentication Method:
   • Consider using OAuth or JWT: If you need more flexible and secure authentication, explore using OAuth or JSON Web Tokens (JWT) for API access. These methods allow for greater control over permissions and access tokens.

Important Note: Always test thoroughly before implementing any changes to your WordPress installation. Back up your website before making any major modifications to avoid data loss.

By following these steps, you can diagnose and resolve the “Sorry, you are not allowed to create posts as this user” error while utilizing the WordPress REST API with Application Passwords. Remember to prioritize security and grant only the necessary permissions for your API users.