Clocking in and out properly ensures you get paid accurately for your shifts. This article explains how to handle common clock-in and clock-out problems you might encounter while working through Instawork.
Common clock-in issues and solutions
When you can't find the clock-in code:
If you arrive at your shift but don't have the clock-in code:
1. Contact the on-site supervisor
Find their contact information at the bottom of your shift details
Call or text them to request the four-digit clock-in code
Explain that you've arrived and need assistance clocking in
2. Use alternative clock-in methods
Look for the "Can't find the code?" option on the clock-in screen.
Once you choose the QR code option, ensure the business scans it with their scanner or use the manual entry option if scanning isn't possible.
If available, use the QR code option (the supervisor will need to scan your code)
Select "Clock in with code" when you receive the code
3. If the supervisor is unresponsive
Remain at the location for at least one hour
Instawork will process a 4-hour payment if you remain on-site, document your efforts to contact the supervisor, and follow the proper procedures.
Take timestamped photos of the clocking device showing the time.
Capture images of the storefront with the business address visible.
Document any completed tasks to demonstrate your presence and work.
Contact Instawork support through the app.
Document your arrival time and attempts to reach the supervisor
Do not leave without instructions from support, as this may affect your eligibility for payment.
Staying on-site and documenting unresolved issues can also make you eligible for a 4-hour payment under Instawork policies.
Maintain visual proof of your efforts, such as photographs of your completed tasks or other relevant work documentation.
When you're outside the geofence
If you're at the correct location but can't clock in because of geofence issues:
1. Make sure you're inside the building
The geofence extends approximately 500 feet around the location
Being in the parking lot may place you outside the geofence
Move closer to the center of the building
2. Check your location settings
Ensure location services are enabled on your phone
Set Instawork permissions to "Always Allow" for location
Restart your phone if location services aren't working properly
3. If you still can't clock in
Contact the on-site supervisor for assistance
They may be able to clock you in through their business app
Contact Instawork support if the supervisor can't help
Common clock-out issues and solutions
When you can't find the clock-out code
If you're ready to leave but can't clock out:
1. Locate the on-site supervisor
Ask for the clock-out code
If they have the Instawork business app, they can clock you out directly
If there's a captain or shift lead, they can assist with clocking you out- If unavailable, ask other on-site staff, like reception or security, for help contacting the supervisor.
2. If the supervisor is unavailable
Try to contact them using the information in your shift details
Wait a reasonable amount of time for them to respond
Contact Instawork support if you can't reach the supervisor
3. If you've already left the location
You won't be able to clock out through the app once outside the geofence
Contact support immediately with details about when you left
Provide any evidence of your actual end time (like a timesheet)
How to request hours adjustments
If your clock-in or clock-out times don't accurately reflect your worked hours:
1. Submit a dispute within 12 hours
Go to your shift in the "Past Shifts" section
Scroll to the bottom and select "Request Hours Adjustment"
Enter your actual start and end times
Provide a brief explanation of what happened
2. Wait for resolution
The business has 72 hours to review your dispute- If the dispute remains unresolved after 72 hours, it is typically resolved in favor of the worker.
If they don't respond within that time, the dispute is typically resolved in your favor
You'll receive a notification when your dispute is resolved
When your shift time changes
If your shift time changes—either because a Partner contacted, you or you see an update in the app—don't cancel the shift. Canceling may result in penalties.
How to handle a shift time change
1. Arrive at the new requested time
The shift is still active, just at a different time
Plan to be there when the Partner requested
2. Check in with the on-site supervisor or captain
Let them know you're there for the shift
Ask them to adjust your clock-in time if needed
3. If the supervisor or captain isn't available
Contact them using the information in your shift details
Stay on-site for at least one hour while you wait for a response
Contact Instawork support through the app if you can't reach them
Don't leave without instructions from support
Important things to remember
Always stay on site if you're having clock-in issues (at least one hour)- Arrive early to coordinate with the supervisor and ensure a smooth clock-in process.
Don't leave without clocking out if possible- Familiarize yourself with clock-in and clock-out procedures in advance to avoid last-minute confusion.
Submit disputes promptly (within 12 hours of shift end)
Keep location services enabled throughout your shift
Document everything in case you need to file a dispute
If you have questions about clocking in or out, please contact our support team through the app.