Why Was My Account Suspended?
If your Instawork account has been suspended, you may be wondering why this happened and what you can do about it. This article explains common reasons for suspensions and your next steps.
How to Tell If You're Suspended
When your account is suspended:
- You'll see a message in the app saying your account is suspended
- You won't be able to book new shifts
The message will usually tell you the reason and duration of the suspension- Existing shifts booked before suspension may still be active. Verify their status in the app, as some shifts could be canceled depending on the suspension.
Common Reasons for Suspensions
No-Shows
Not showing up for a shift you booked without canceling is considered a no-show. This is one of the most serious violations because businesses count on you to be there.
Late Cancellations
Canceling a shift less than 24 hours before it starts is a late cancellation. This gives businesses little time to find a replacement.
Missing Shift Confirmations
When you book a shift, you need to confirm it 48-16 hours before it starts. If you don't confirm in time, your shift may be automatically canceled and your account may be suspended.
Being Very Late to Shifts
Arriving more than 15 minutes late to shifts multiple times can lead to a suspension.
Profile Picture Issues
Your profile picture must clearly show your face without sunglasses, hats, or filters. An inappropriate profile picture can result in a suspension.
Background Check Results
If something concerning appears on your background check, your account may be suspended while we review it.
Multiple Policy Violations
Repeated violations of Instawork policies within a short period can lead to longer suspensions.
Suspension Durations
Suspensions can last:
- 24 hours (for first-time or minor violations)
- 7 days (for repeated or more serious violations)
- 30 days or more (for multiple serious violations)
Some suspensions may be permanent deactivations, especially for repeated no-shows or serious policy violations.
What to Do If You're Suspended
Check the Reason
Look at the suspension message in your app to understand why you were suspended.
Appeal (If Available)
For some suspensions, you may see an "Appeal Suspension" option in the app:
1. Tap this option
2. Select the reason for your appeal
3. Provide details about your situation
4. Submit your appeal
Important:
Submit your appeal within 24 hours if your suspension is due to a technical issue to avoid violation points.
Support can only remove no-shows if you actually worked the shift.
Not all suspensions can be appealed, and appeals are not guaranteed to be approved.
Wait for the Suspension to End
If you can't appeal or your appeal is denied, you'll need to wait until the suspension period ends. After that, you can book shifts again.
Complete Any Required Steps
Some suspensions require you to complete certain actions before your account is reactivated, such as:
- Updating your profile picture
- Completing a quiz about Instawork policies
- Providing additional information
Providing Evidence to Dispute a Suspension
For No-Shows or Invalid Timesheets: Provide relevant documents such as valid timesheets, clock-in/clock-out records, and confirmations from partners to appeal a no-show. Submit them through the Help section for review.
Disputing Background Check Results: Background check errors can be addressed by contacting the provided agency. Respond to the "Pre-Adverse Action Notice" email with documentation or clarification.
Preventing Future Suspensions
To avoid getting suspended again:
- Only book shifts you're sure you can work
- Cancel shifts more than 24 hours in advance if needed
- Always confirm your shifts on time
- Arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to every shift
- Follow all shift requirements and instructions
- Keep your profile information up to date
If you have questions about your specific suspension that aren't answered in the app, please contact our support team.For detailed assistance, use the Help section of the Instawork app for guidance and to provide necessary information for appeals or disputes.