Instacart: Failed / adverse background check ('ineligible') deactivation appeal

What this deactivation means

Checkr or Sterling returned a criminal/driving record that fails eligibility, or the check has an error. Accurate disqualifying records are least recoverable.

Where and when to appeal

The evidence that moves this reason

• Errors: your free FCRA report, court records, expungement/dismissal, identity proof
• Accurate-but-old: rehabilitation certificates + employer reference letters on letterhead

The angle that actually works

Two tracks — dispute a WRONG report with Checkr/Sterling (FCRA), or use the Mitigation form to argue rehabilitation for an ACCURATE record. Don't mix the tracks.

This reason is appealable, but only with strong, specific evidence — a generic letter won't move it.

If Instacart denies the appeal

Denied: reframe and re-appeal quoting the exact order ID/date. Cite Instacart's own fair-investigation clause. File a BBB complaint and a state AG consumer complaint (CA/NY/IL active). If a background/MVR report is wrong, dispute it directly with the screening vendor (usually Checkr) under the FCRA — they must reinvestigate, typically within 30 days, and a corrected report is auto-reported to the platform. This is a report-accuracy fight, not a plea, and is often the most winnable path. Seattle's ordinance (90-day challenge, private right of action) and NYC's Dec 2025 protections apply where relevant. Individual arbitration via JAMS per the IC Agreement (CA Prop 22 opt-out window). Separate any unpaid-earnings claim (small claims) from reinstatement.