Amazon Inc. recently informed its Flex drivers, who deliver packages using their own vehicles, that there may be a delay in the payments they were expecting to receive on Thursday. This unexpected message caused concern among the drivers, who are accustomed to receiving prompt payment upon completing a route.
The initial communication from Amazon did not provide details about the issue or an estimated timeline for resolution, further exacerbating the worries of the affected Flex drivers. The message stated, “We’re contacting you because your payment scheduled for 15 August 2024 may be delayed. We are actively working on this issue and will let you know when it’s resolved. You don’t need to take any action.”
According to Amazon spokesperson Steve Kelly, a technical glitch caused the delay impacting some Flex drivers. Kelly assured that all outstanding payments are expected to be disbursed by Monday and apologized for any inconvenience caused by the delay.
In response to the situation, Flex drivers took to social media platforms such as Facebook and Reddit to discuss their concerns. One driver, requesting anonymity out of fear of reprisal from Amazon, expressed worries about the potential delay until Monday.
Amazon’s package delivery service includes Flex drivers, who use a smartphone app to accept routes and deliver packages in their own vehicles, similar to how contractors for companies like Uber and Lyft operate. The allure of this job includes flexibility in working hours and quick payment upon completing assignments, unlike traditional jobs with longer pay schedules.
This article has been updated to include a statement from Amazon regarding the payment delay issue.
