Add configuration options for filtering

**Problem**
When working with helpers, the error messages could be more descriptive.

**Suggestion**
Improve error handling and add detailed error messages.

**Context**
This would help with debugging and maintenance.

The issue names no files, tests, or entry points. Start by locating the helper error-handling path and configuration entry point, then clarify which filters and detailed messages are required; done means the requested options work and helper failures provide more descriptive errors.

Written by the indexing model from the issue text.