As an Instacart shopper, you’ll receive your pay weekly via direct deposit or, in some cases, instant cashouts through services like PayPal. Instacart doesn’t automatically generate traditional paystubs. Instead, your earnings are tracked through the Instacart Shopper App.

Here’s what your earnings look like in the app:

• Earnings Summary: Your total earnings, broken down by individual batches completed.
• In-App Tips: Any tips left by customers, which are added to your weekly payouts.
• Bonuses and Promotions: Extra earnings from surge pricing, bonuses for completing a certain number of batches, or other incentives.

While this information is useful, it’s not as detailed as a traditional paystub. So, how do you create or access a paystub when you need one?

Step 1: Download Your Earnings from Instacart

Instacart doesn’t offer downloadable paystubs directly, but you can still access your earnings information from the app. Here’s how:

1. Log into the Instacart Shopper App.
2. Go to the Earnings tab.
3. Select the Week or Date Range you need.
4. Take screenshots of your earnings for that week, including the total amount earned and any tips or bonuses.

These earnings reports will provide you with an overview of how much you’ve made, but they won’t show deductions like taxes or expenses, which are key components of a traditional paystub.

Step 2: Create a Paystubs Using a Check Stubs Maker

Since Instacart doesn’t provide detailed paystubs, you’ll need to create one yourself. This is where a check stubs maker comes in handy. These online tools allow you to input your earnings data and generate professional-looking paystubs in minutes.

Here’s how to use a check stubs maker to create your own paystubs:

1. Gather Your Earnings Information: Before you start, make sure you have the necessary data like your weekly earnings, tips, and any deductions you might want to include (e.g., taxes, expenses).
2. Choose a Check Stubs Maker: There are several check stubs makers available online. Popular options include:
   • Paystub Generator
   • Real Check Stubs
   • Online Paystub Maker
3. Input Your Information: Once you’ve selected a service, enter your earnings details:
   • Gross Earnings: This is your total earnings before any deductions.
   • Deductions: Since Instacart doesn’t withhold taxes, you can manually calculate an estimate of your tax deductions and input them. You can also include other expenses like gas or vehicle maintenance.
   • Net Pay: This is your take-home pay after deductions.
4. Download Your Paystub: Once you’ve entered all the information, the tool will generate a paystub for you. You can then download or print it for your records.

Using a check stubs maker gives you a formal document that looks just like a traditional paystub, complete with your company name, earnings, deductions, and net pay.

Step 3: Keep Track of Your Taxes

As an independent contractor, you’re responsible for managing your own taxes. Instacart does not withhold federal or state taxes from your pay, so it’s up to you to set aside a portion of your earnings for tax payments. Here’s how to stay on top of your tax obligations:

• Track Your Earnings: Use the Instacart Shopper App to regularly monitor how much you’re making.
• Estimate Your Tax Deductions: A general rule of thumb is to set aside 20% to 30% of your earnings for taxes.
• File Quarterly Estimated Taxes: As a freelancer, you might need to pay taxes quarterly instead of annually. Make sure to file these on time to avoid penalties.
• Save All Your Receipts: Keep records of any business-related expenses, such as gas, car repairs, or supplies, to deduct from your taxable income.

Keeping your finances organized throughout the year will make tax season much smoother.

Benefits of Using a Check Stubs Maker for Instacart Shoppers

Using a check stubs maker offers several advantages for Instacart shoppers:

1. Professionalism: A formal paystub looks more professional than a screenshot of your earnings. This is especially important when you’re applying for loans, renting an apartment, or providing proof of income for other financial matters.
2. Customizable Deductions: Since Instacart doesn’t withhold taxes, a check stubs maker allows you to add in your estimated tax deductions and other business expenses, giving you a more accurate reflection of your net pay.
3. Simplicity: Generating a paystub using an online tool is quick and easy. You don’t need any special software or accounting knowledge to create a professional document.
4. Records for Tax Filing: Having organized paystubs makes it easier to track your earnings and deductions when it’s time to file taxes.

Alternative Options to Generate Paystubs

In addition to using a check stubs maker, here are a few other ways to track your earnings and generate paystubs:

1. Accounting Software: Tools like QuickBooks or FreshBooks allow freelancers to generate invoices and track expenses. You can use these tools to create a summary of your income and even generate paystubs if needed.
2. Bank Statements: While not as detailed as a paystub, your bank statements can provide proof of income by showing your weekly direct deposits from Instacart. If you don’t need a detailed breakdown, this may be enough to satisfy lenders or landlords.
3. Invoicing Apps: If you want more control over your earnings reports, you can use invoicing apps like Wave or Zoho Invoice to manually enter your earnings and create paystubs or income summaries.

Final Thoughts

Working as an Instacart shopper offers flexibility and freedom, but it also comes with the responsibility of managing your own finances, including creating your own paystubs. While Instacart doesn’t provide traditional paystubs, you can easily generate them using a check stubs maker or alternative methods.

Whether you need paystubs for proof of income, tax purposes, or personal budgeting, taking a proactive approach to tracking your earnings will save you time and hassle. By using tools like a check stubs maker, you’ll have everything you need to keep your finances in order and ensure you’re always prepared when proof of income is required.