Resolving Clock-In and Clock-Out Issues on Instawork
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
- 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.
- 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.
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
Important things to remember
- Always stay on site if you're having clock-in issues (at least one hour)
- Don't leave without clocking out if possible
- 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.