> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.discontract.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.discontract.com/en/for-clients/payment-information/how-is-the-task-cost-calculated.md). # How is the task cost calculated? There are no hidden, small print charges on Discontract – any task estimate will be based on your pro's hourly rate and the task duration indicated by you. However, this estimated cost may in some cases differ from the final cost of the order. For example, it may happen if the pro indicates that the task took longer than estimated upon completing it, since the final amount is always calculated in accordance to actual time spent doing the job. This is why we advise you to always contact your pro before they arrive on site, and ask how much time they believe the task could take. It's also a good idea to clarify whether they will need to make any additional purchases for your task, as these expenses may also alter the final cost of your service. Communication goes a long way! It will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises, and make sure that you're not charged more than you had planned. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://help.discontract.com/en/for-clients/payment-information/how-is-the-task-cost-calculated.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.