# Why does reading a local file cost no credits?

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HELP CENTER · FAQ Tools 2 min read
# Why does reading a local file cost no credits?
A local file read and a model operation are different parts of a task. Knowing which step uses credits makes it easier to understand usage and design a focused workflow.
IaGenify
Tools

## Separate access from processing
When the file tool reads a file available on the device running the session, that read itself is not a credit-consuming operation. The file does not need to be uploaded simply so the tool can inspect it. The distinction is about where the file is accessed, not whether later work can involve usage.
If you ask the agent to summarize, compare, classify, or transform the file, those follow-on steps may involve billable model or conversion work. A task that only opens or reads a local file is therefore different from a task that asks for analysis of its contents.
## Understand the cost of the whole task
For a multi-step request, look at the run details and identify which operations actually took place. The tool access may be free while a later model turn or conversion consumes credits. This makes it possible to distinguish file handling from interpretation instead of treating every action as one undifferentiated charge.
If you want to keep usage clear, state the desired output and avoid asking for repeated versions that do not add value. Check the usage information shown for the run when reviewing a charge. Reading the local file has no credit cost, but the requested work performed on its contents may have one. [← Back to Tools FAQs](https://help.iagenify.com/faqs/tools)