# 443 Pattern Idempotency 4745dd71

> Use Workflow IDs for Idempotency

- Skill: `tools-only/443-pattern-idempotency-4745dd71` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 3 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add tools-only/443-pattern-idempotency-4745dd71`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/tools-only/443-pattern-idempotency-4745dd71/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Productivity
- Author: tools-only (https://skillmd.com/u/tools-only)
- Updated: 2026-09-22
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/tools-only/443-pattern-idempotency-4745dd71

---


## Use Workflow IDs for Idempotency

Assign a workflow ID to ensure a workflow executes only once, even if called multiple times. This prevents duplicate side effects like double payments.

**Incorrect (no idempotency):**

```typescript
async function processPaymentFn(orderId: string, amount: number) {
  await DBOS.runStep(() => chargeCard(amount), { name: "chargeCard" });
  await DBOS.runStep(() => updateOrder(orderId), { name: "updateOrder" });
}
const processPayment = DBOS.registerWorkflow(processPaymentFn);

// Multiple calls could charge the card multiple times!
await processPayment("order-123", 50);
await processPayment("order-123", 50); // Double charge!
```

**Correct (with workflow ID):**

```typescript
async function processPaymentFn(orderId: string, amount: number) {
  await DBOS.runStep(() => chargeCard(amount), { name: "chargeCard" });
  await DBOS.runStep(() => updateOrder(orderId), { name: "updateOrder" });
}
const processPayment = DBOS.registerWorkflow(processPaymentFn);

// Same workflow ID = only one execution
const workflowID = `payment-${orderId}`;
await DBOS.startWorkflow(processPayment, { workflowID })("order-123", 50);
await DBOS.startWorkflow(processPayment, { workflowID })("order-123", 50);
// Second call returns the result of the first execution
```

Access the current workflow ID inside a workflow:

```typescript
async function myWorkflowFn() {
  const currentID = DBOS.workflowID;
  console.log(`Running workflow: ${currentID}`);
}
```

Workflow IDs must be **globally unique** for your application. If not set, a random UUID is generated.

Reference: [Workflow IDs and Idempotency](https://docs.dbos.dev/typescript/tutorials/workflow-tutorial#workflow-ids-and-idempotency)