Instacart is an app that connects you to customers who need groceries. You use the app to sign on, find orders, then shop and deliver those items to your customers. When you get paid, you can cash out instantly and you can earn even more with tips for great service.

Just create an account at shoppers.instacart.com. After that, just download the Shopper app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store to complete the sign up process and get your background check started. When your background check has cleared and you’re approved to shop, you can sign on to shop and make money on your own schedule.

How much an Instacart shopper earns depends on their role type and other factors.

Full-service shopper in the U.S.

Shoppers get paid per batch that they complete. Instacart provides estimates for your earnings on every order as well as total earnings for the week. The amount you earn per batch of orders depends on the number of items, type of items, driving distance, and effort involved in shopping and delivering. You keep 100% of customer tips. You also get opportunities to earn extra through promotions Instacart runs.

As independent contractors, full-service shoppers have the flexibility to work as little or as often as they want. This means that total earnings potential depends on the individual.

In-store shopper in the U.S.

In-store shoppers are Instacart employees who earn an hourly wage, detailed in the initial offer letter. In-store shoppers are scheduled for shifts based on personal availability, up to 29 hours each week.

Hear from real shoppers about what its like to shop with Instacart in this video.

In order to become an Instacart shopper in the U.S., you must be at least 18 years of age, have legal authorization to work in the U.S., be able to lift up to 40lbs without accommodation, have regular access to a reliable car and have regular access to a smartphone capable of running the Instacart Shopper app. You must also pass a background check.

The first thing you’ll need to have on-hand is your contact information (the details on your driver’s license should cover this step). You will also need to have your social security number readily available. The sign up process will then ask you to set up direct deposit so you can get paid! You’ll need your banking information to complete this step.

Background checks normally process within 10 business days, but sometimes it can process much faster. Due to high volumes and temporary court closures, delays are possible. Learn more at the Help Center.

Not at all. As an Instacart shopper, you’ll get a payment card from Instacart and use it at the checkout register at every store you shop. Getting a payment card is simple. New shoppers usually receive their payment card in the mail 5 to 7 business days after completing the sign up process.