*The following article is for our Pros who reside in the US.
Why haven't I received my payment yet?
If you're waiting for a payment that hasn't arrived, there are several possible reasons. This article will help you figure out why your payment might be delayed and what you can do about it.
Check your payment frequency settings
Your payment frequency determines when you receive your earnings:
Weekly payment: All earnings are processed at the end of the weekly pay period (typically Wednesday for work completed the previous week)
Instapay: Earnings are sent shortly after you clock out of each shift (subject to a 5% fee)
If you recently switched from Instapay to Weekly (or vice versa), this change might explain why your payment schedule seems different.
**Important**: You become eligible for Instapay seven days after completing your second shift on Instawork. Once eligible, you must select "Instapay" in your payment settings to receive payments after each shift.
Verify your payment account information
Payment delays often happen because of account issues:
Incorrect account details: Double-check that your bank account or debit card information is entered correctly
Expired debit card: Make sure your card hasn't expired
Prepaid cards: Some prepaid debit cards may experience longer processing times
Recent account changes: If you recently updated your payment method, it may take up to 3 business days for the change to take effect
Common reasons for payment delays
1. Clocking issues
Forgetting to clock out: Always clock out through the app at the end of your shift
Missing clock-in: If you didn't clock in correctly, your hours may need manual verification
Location tracking disabled**: Having location services turned off during your shift can delay payment.
2. Payment processing times
Debit card payments: Usually available within 1 hour, but can take up to 24 hours
Bank account transfers: Typically take 1-3 business days to appear in your account
Weekends and holidays: Payments initiated on weekends or holidays may take longer to process
3. Shift-specific issues
Disputed hours: If there's a discrepancy about your hours worked, payment may be held until it's resolved
Incomplete surveys: Some shifts require completed surveys before payment is processed
W-2 vs. 1099 shifts: Different payment schedules apply depending on shift type
Different rules for W-2 shifts
For W-2 shifts:
You can choose Instapay to receive 60% of your estimated earnings shortly after your shift
The remaining 40% (minus applicable taxes and deductions) is paid during the weekly pay cycle
W-2 Instapay is not available in all states
What to do if your payment is still missing
If you've checked all the above and still haven't received your payment:
1. Wait 24 hours for debit card payments or three business days for bank transfers
2. Check with your bank to see if they're holding the deposit
3. Contact Instawork support through the app with:
- The shift date and location
- Your payment method
- When you expected to receive payment
- Screenshots of any error messages
Our support team will help track down your payment and resolve any issues.
**Note**: While most payments are processed quickly, occasional delays can occur due to technical issues or banking system limitations.
If you have any questions about your payment, please contact our support team through the app.