*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)
Payments processed on Wednesday are typically delivered to your bank or debit card by Friday, though posting times vary slightly by bank.- Physical checks: Payments sent as physical checks can take 7–14 business days to arrive, depending on postal service timelines and location.- Payments processed on Wednesday are typically available by Saturday at 11:59 PM, depending on your bank.
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- Returned payments: Payments returned due to an invalid account are reprocessed after confirmation from the bank, with the timeline depending on the bank's return processing.
Common reasons for payment delays
1. Clocking issues
Forgetting to clock out: Always clock out through the app at the end of your shift
Use QR codes, 4-digit codes, or the business app to ensure accurate clock-in and clock-out times. Submitting signed timesheets with correct details can also help avoid delays.
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 processing may take up to 3–5 business days depending on your bank's systems
Bank account transfers: Typically take 2–3 business days to appear in your account, but can take up to 3–5 business days in some cases
Weekends and holidays: Payments initiated on weekends or holidays may take longer to process
Weekly payroll cycle payments are processed mid-week (typically Wednesdays), and funds are typically available by Saturday at 11:59 PM.
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
Pending adjustments: Some payments may require corrections due to updated shift details or calculations, causing temporary delays.
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
Workers must opt-in to Instapay at clock-out to receive partial payments instantly. Any remaining payment follows the weekly payroll cycle schedule.
Notifications are provided once all components of a multi-stage payment are processed for transparency.
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
Contact Instawork support through the app with:
Verify payment status in the Instawork app first. Payments marked as "Processing" indicate they have been sent but may still be clearing with your bank.
Our support team will help track down your payment and resolve any issues.
Be prepared to provide the following:
The shift date and location
Your payment method
When you expected to receive payment
Screenshots of any error messages
**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.