Most gig platforms treat you as an independent contractor using their app under a contract, usually the platform terms of service. When the platform deactivates you, it typically means the platform is ending or suspending your access under those terms.

That is why many disputes come down to what the contract says what the platform policies say and whether the platform followed its own stated process for reviews or appeals.

Deactivation triggers vary by platform, but these are common patterns gig workers report across app based work:

• Ratings and performance flags: low ratings, high cancellation rates, repeated late deliveries or pickups, or frequent issues tied to orders.
• Customer or third party complaints: allegations about behavior, safety, identity, or delivery completion.
• Algorithm or fraud flags: unusual location patterns, suspected account sharing, suspected duplicate accounts, or system detected violations.
• Policy violations: disputes about prohibited items, safety rules, background check issues where applicable, or misuse of the platform.

In many deactivation disputes, the platform points back to its contract terms and community or safety policies. Those documents often explain what the platform considers a violation whether the platform can deactivate for suspected issues what notice the platform must give and what dispute process applies including whether disputes must go to arbitration.

If you plan to appeal, a practical step is to locate the latest version of the terms and policies you agreed to and any in app messages tied to the decision.

Most platforms offer some form of internal review, but the quality and transparency varies. A strong appeal usually looks less like a plea and more like a short organized record.

Practical tips that often improve appeal outcomes:

• Keep it specific: list the date and time of the incident and what you were doing.
• Attach proof: screenshots, receipts, chat logs, GPS context, or delivery confirmation as available.
• Address the policy: if you can identify the policy cited, respond directly to it.
• Ask for clarification in writing: if the reason is vague, request the specific category of violation and the date range reviewed.

If the platform has multiple support channels such as in app help email phone or escalation forms, document each attempt and keep copies of what you submitted.

If the app is your livelihood, treat your gig like a business. Good records can support an appeal and help you explain your timeline clearly if you later seek legal advice.

Scenario. A Utah delivery driver wakes up to a message that their account is deactivated due to a safety complaint. No details are provided and support replies with a template response.

What a practical response often looks like:

• Step 1: Screenshot the deactivation notice and any related emails or in app messages.
• Step 2: Identify the date range that might be involved such as your recent work sessions any unusual incidents or any customer disputes.
• Step 3: Gather proof that helps verify your timeline such as order IDs screenshots chat logs delivery photos or mileage and GPS app logs if you use them.
• Step 4: Submit a short appeal that requests the category and date of the allegation and attaches the most relevant evidence.
• Step 5: Keep a record of every support contact attempt and response.

If the platform points you to a dispute clause such as arbitration, that can change the path forward. That is a point where a consultation may help you understand options and costs based on your situation.