Just Got Deactivated? Do This First:
- 1 Don't panic - Many drivers get reinstated
- 2 Read your deactivation email carefully - Note the specific reason
- 3 Gather evidence - Screenshots, photos, receipts
- 4 Submit appeal within 10 days - Sooner is better
Table of Contents
1. Understanding Deactivation
Amazon Flex deactivation is the termination of your delivery partner account. When deactivated, you lose access to the Flex app and can no longer accept delivery blocks. However, deactivation isn't always permanent - many drivers successfully appeal and get reinstated.
Types of Deactivation
Soft Block / Warning
- • Reduced block offers
- • "At Risk" standing status
- • Warning emails
- • Temporary restrictions
Can recover by improving metrics
Full Deactivation
- • Complete account termination
- • Cannot access Flex app
- • Receive termination email
- • Must appeal to return
Requires formal appeal process
Good News: Amazon's deactivation process includes an appeal mechanism. Many drivers who were deactivated in error - or who can demonstrate they've learned from mistakes - successfully get reinstated. Don't give up!
2. Common Reasons for Deactivation
Understanding why you were deactivated is crucial for writing an effective appeal. Here are the most common reasons:
Delivery Quality Issues
- • Too many packages marked as undeliverable
- • High rate of "package not received" complaints
- • Poor photo documentation
- • Delivering to wrong addresses
Appeal Success Rate: High (if you can show improvement plan)
Late/Missed Blocks
- • Repeatedly showing up late to blocks
- • Missing blocks without forfeiting in advance
- • Not completing blocks on time
Appeal Success Rate: Medium-High (explain circumstances)
Background Check Issues
- • New criminal charges
- • Driving record violations (DUI, reckless driving)
- • Continuous background check failed
Appeal Success Rate: Low (depends on offense)
Terms of Service Violations
- • Using automated block-grabbing software
- • Having someone else deliver on your account
- • Stealing packages
- • Multiple accounts
Appeal Success Rate: Very Low (serious violations)
Customer Complaints
- • Rude behavior to customers
- • Unprofessional conduct
- • Damage to property
Appeal Success Rate: Medium (if isolated incident)
3. The Appeal Process
Step-by-Step Appeal Guide
Receive & Review Deactivation Email
Check your email for the official notification. It should include the reason for deactivation and a link to appeal. Save this email.
Gather Evidence
Collect any supporting documentation: delivery photos, GPS data, communication with customers or support, app screenshots, etc.
Write Your Appeal
Draft a professional, concise appeal letter addressing the specific issue. See Section 4 for writing tips and Section 5 for templates.
Submit Appeal
Use the link in your deactivation email or go to the Amazon Flex support page. Submit within 10 days of deactivation.
Wait for Response
Amazon typically responds within 5-10 business days. Check your email (including spam folder) regularly.
Follow Up or Escalate
If denied or no response after 2 weeks, consider escalation options (see Section 6).
Timing Matters: Submit your appeal as soon as possible, ideally within 3-5 days of deactivation. Quick action shows you take the issue seriously.
4. Writing an Effective Appeal
Your appeal letter is your chance to make your case. Here's how to write one that maximizes your chances of reinstatement:
The RACE Framework
R - Responsibility
Take ownership of the issue. Don't blame others or make excuses. Amazon respects accountability.
A - Action Taken
Explain what specific steps you've already taken to address the problem.
C - Changes Planned
Detail what you'll do differently going forward to prevent recurrence.
E - Evidence
Provide supporting documentation when relevant to your case.
Do's and Don'ts
Do
- ✔ Be professional and respectful
- ✔ Keep it concise (1 page max)
- ✔ Address the specific issue cited
- ✔ Show you understand the problem
- ✔ Provide concrete action steps
- ✔ Include relevant evidence
- ✔ Proofread for errors
Don't
- ❌ Be emotional or angry
- ❌ Blame customers or Amazon
- ❌ Write a lengthy essay
- ❌ Deny everything happened
- ❌ Make threats
- ❌ Lie or exaggerate
- ❌ Submit multiple appeals at once
5. Sample Appeal Letters
Use these templates as starting points. Personalize them with your specific situation and details.
6. Escalation Options
If your initial appeal is denied, you have additional options:
Option 1: Submit a Second Appeal
Wait 1-2 weeks, then submit another appeal with additional evidence or a revised approach. Sometimes different reviewers make different decisions.
Option 2: Executive Email
Email jeff@amazon.com with your case. This goes to an executive customer relations team. Use this sparingly and only for legitimate cases.
Option 3: Better Business Bureau
File a complaint with the BBB. Amazon often responds to BBB complaints. Include all documentation.
Option 4: Social Media
As a last resort, professional public posts on Twitter/X tagging @AmazonHelp sometimes get attention. Stay factual and professional.
Important: Escalation works best for legitimate cases with clear evidence. If you violated TOS or have a pattern of poor performance, escalation is unlikely to help and may burn bridges.
7. Preventing Future Deactivation
Once reinstated (or if you're reading this preventatively), follow these best practices:
Delivery Best Practices
- ✔ Take clear photos showing package AND location
- ✔ Follow customer delivery notes exactly
- ✔ Don't mark undeliverable unless truly impossible
- ✔ Contact customer if access issues arise
- ✔ Return undeliverables promptly
Account Health Practices
- ✔ Maintain "Fantastic" standing
- ✔ Arrive 10-15 min early to blocks
- ✔ Forfeit blocks you can't make (24hr advance)
- ✔ Never use third-party apps/bots
- ✔ Keep background check clean
8. Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the appeal process take?
Can I reapply for Amazon Flex after permanent deactivation?
What if I was deactivated unfairly?
Should I call Amazon support?
Can I still work for other Amazon programs after Flex deactivation?
Don't Give Up
Many drivers successfully appeal deactivation. Write a thoughtful appeal, be patient, and follow the process.