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pragprogrammer

YNAB MCP Server

get_payee

Retrieves details of a single payee by ID for a given YNAB plan. Use to get specific payee information.

Instructions

Get a single payee.

Args: payee_id: The payee ID plan_id: The plan ID (use list_plans to find available IDs) exclude_fields: Optional list of field names to exclude from the response. If omitted, the model's default exclude list is used (see FIELDS.md). Pass [] to return all fields. Pass a custom list to override the default.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
plan_idYes
payee_idYes
exclude_fieldsNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description bears the full burden. It explains the behavior of exclude_fields in detail, but omits other aspects like idempotency, error handling (e.g., not found), or auth requirements. The read-only nature is implied but not stated.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is concise and well-structured with a docstring-style args list. The first sentence is direct. The explanation of exclude_fields is slightly lengthy but necessary for clarity. No extraneous information.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

For a simple retrieval tool with an output schema (implied), the description covers all necessary aspects: it states what the tool does, explains all parameters, and provides a helpful cross-reference. There are no gaps given the low complexity.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema coverage is 0%, so the description must add meaning. It does so effectively, explaining that plan_id can be found via list_plans, and detailing the exclude_fields behavior including default, null pass, and custom overrides. This adds substantial value beyond the raw schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states 'Get a single payee', which is a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself from siblings like list_payees (lists multiple) and update_payee (modifies), so the purpose is unambiguous.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description provides context for using plan_id by referencing list_plans, and explains exclude_fields options. While it doesn't explicitly state when not to use it, the purpose of retrieving a single payee by ID is clear, and the cross-reference aids correct usage.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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