> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.pears.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.pears.io/updates/community-events-2026/variable-cost-language.md).

# Variable Cost Language

As of **February 2, 2026**, a unified pricing message displays on event registration pages that combines base registration fees and any additional session or add-on costs. Event creators do not need to take any action — messages are generated automatically based on the event's fee configuration.

## What Changed

### Previous Approach

Pricing information was displayed as separate messages by fee type. Events marked as "Free" that included paid add-ons or session fees could mislead participants about the total cost.

### Updated Approach

A single unified pricing message now auto-displays on the public registration page. The message adjusts based on the combination of registration fees and additional fees configured for the event.

### Registration Fee Messages

| Scenario                               | Message                                                |
| -------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------ |
| No registration fee                    | No message displayed                                   |
| All registration types have fees       | "A registration fee is required for all participants." |
| Mixed free and paid registration types | "Fees vary based on registration options."             |

### Additional Fee Messages

| Scenario                              | Message                                                                                         |
| ------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| No session or add-on fees             | No additional message                                                                           |
| Optional session or add-on fees exist | "Optional session or event add-ons are available for an additional fee."                        |
| Required session or add-on fees       | "One or more sessions or event add-ons require an additional fee, which may vary by selection." |

### Combined Examples

| Event Configuration                        | Message                                                                                                                                              |
| ------------------------------------------ | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Free event, no add-ons                     | No message displayed                                                                                                                                 |
| All paid registrations, no add-ons         | "A registration fee is required for all participants."                                                                                               |
| Mixed free and paid registrations          | "Fees vary based on registration options."                                                                                                           |
| All paid with optional session fees        | "A registration fee is required for all participants. Optional session or event add-ons are available for an additional fee."                        |
| All paid with required session/add-on fees | "A registration fee is required for all participants. One or more sessions or event add-ons require an additional fee, which may vary by selection." |

### Registration Type Labels

The label displayed next to each registration type on the public page also updates based on fees:

* **"Attendee $50.00 + required fees"** — Required session or add-on fees are present
* **"Attendee $50.00 + optional fees"** — Optional session or add-on fees are present
* **"Attendee $50.00"** — No additional fees
* **"Attendee Free"** — No base cost

{% hint style="info" %}
**TIP:** These messages and labels are generated automatically. Review the public registration page in Preview mode to confirm the messaging is clear for your event's fee structure.
{% endhint %}

## Related Documentation

* [Event Payment](/plan/community-events/event-payment.md) — Configure payment methods, fees, and discounts for events