Understanding Pro payment settings and payout schedules
As an Instawork business partner, it's helpful to understand how Pros receive their payments and what payment options are available to them. This article explains the payment settings Pros can choose and how these choices affect when they receive their earnings.
Pro payment options overview
Instawork Pros have flexibility in how and when they receive their payments. Their choices can affect their availability for shifts and their overall experience working with your business.
Payment frequency options
Pros can choose between two payment frequency options:
Weekly payments: All earnings are processed at the end of each weekly pay period
Instapay: Earnings are sent shortly after shift completion (subject to eligibility and fees)
Payment method options
Pros can select where they want their earnings deposited:
Checking account: Direct deposit to their bank account
Debit card: Faster payments to their personal debit card
Weekly payment schedule
When Pros choose weekly payments:
Pay period: Monday through Sunday
Processing day: Wednesday (for the previous week's shifts)
Deposit timing:
For 1099 shifts: Typically available by Friday
For W-2 shifts: Typically available by Wednesday evening
Weekly payments are processed automatically and include all shifts completed during the pay period, with applicable taxes withheld for W-2 shifts.
Instapay schedule and eligibility
Instapay allows Pros to receive earnings more quickly:
For 1099 shifts:
Pros receive 100% of their earnings (minus a fee) shortly after clocking out
Payments to debit cards are typically available within 1 hour
Payments to checking accounts typically take 1-3 business days
For W-2 shifts:
Pros receive 60% of their estimated earnings (minus a fee) shortly after clocking out
The remaining 40% (minus applicable taxes and deductions) is paid during the weekly cycle
Not available in all states (currently unavailable in CO and CT)
Instapay eligibility requirements:
Pros must have completed at least two shifts
They become eligible seven days after their second shift
They must have selected Instapay in their payment settings
For W-2 shifts, they must confirm Instapay after clocking out
How payment settings affect your business
Understanding Pro payment preferences can help you better manage your staffing:
Instapay availability: Many Pros prefer shifts that offer Instapay, which can increase your shift fill rates
Payment timing expectations: Pros expect timely approval of hours to ensure prompt payment
Clock-in/out importance: Accurate clock-in and clock-out times are essential for proper payment processing
Best practices for smooth payment processing
To ensure Pros have a positive payment experience when working at your business:
Verify hours promptly: Review and approve timesheets in a timely manner
Provide clock-in/out codes: Make sure Pros can easily clock in and out through the app
Address disputes quickly: Respond to hours disputes within 72 hours
Communicate expectations: Let Pros know about any specific break policies or timesheet procedures
Common Pro payment questions you might hear
Do I need to clock out through the app?
Yes, Pros need to clock in and out through the Instawork app to ensure proper payment processing, even if they also use your internal time tracking system.
When will I receive my payment?
Payment timing depends on the Pro's selected payment frequency and method. Weekly payments are processed on Wednesdays, while Instapay is available shortly after shift completion.
Why did I receive a partial payment?
For W-2 shifts with Instapay, Pros receive 60% of their estimated earnings immediately, with the remaining 40% (minus taxes and deductions) paid during the weekly cycle.
If you have questions about how Pros are paid or need assistance with payment-related issues, don't hesitate to contact your Instawork account manager.
If a Pro is asking for assistance let them know they can reach out through the App and someone from support can help.