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If you’re a DoorDash driver in the U.S. and you’ve experienced issues like missing pay, deactivation without cause, or other disputes, you may have the right to file for arbitration. DoorDash’s Terms of Service include a binding arbitration agreement for most disputes, meaning you can’t sue in court or join a class action, unless of course you opted out — but you can bring a case individually through arbitration.

Here’s a complete, step-by-step guide to help you understand the process—and take action if you choose to.

Step 1: Send an Informal Dispute Resolution Notice (REQUIRED)

Before you can file for arbitration, you must try to resolve the issue informally by emailing DoorDash and scheduling a phone or video call.

✅ What to Include in the Email:

  • Your full name

  • Your phone number on file with DoorDash

  • The email linked to your Dasher account

  • A description of your issue

📧 Example Email:

To: Informal.Resolution@doordash.com
Subject: Request for Informal Dispute Resolution Conference

Hi DoorDash,

My name is John Doe. I am a Dasher with the phone number (555) 123-4567 and email john.doe@example.com.

I’m reaching out to initiate an informal dispute resolution conference. My issue relates to my deactivation, which I believe was done in error on May 10, 2025, without clear explanation or proper evidence. I would like to discuss this and seek reinstatement or compensation for lost wages.

Please let me know your availability for a phone or video conference.

Thank you,
John Doe

DoorDash has 60 days to respond and complete the conference. You must attend this meeting (even if you have a lawyer) before proceeding to arbitration.

📄 Step 2: Send a Notice of Intent to Arbitrate

If the informal process fails, you’ll need to notify DoorDash that you intend to move forward with arbitration.

✉️ How to Send It:

  • Email it to the DoorDash counsel you interacted with
    OR

  • Mail it to:
    General Counsel, DoorDash
    303 2nd Street, Suite 800
    San Francisco, CA 94107

📦 What to Include:

  • Statement that you completed the informal conference

  • Overview of your claims and damages

  • Contact info

📝 Step 3: File Your Arbitration Demand

Which company you file with depends on where you live:

Your Location File With
California ADR Services, Inc.
Outside CA (U.S.) NAM (National Arbitration and Mediation)

🧾 What Your Demand Must Include:

  • Name, phone, email, and mailing address

  • Description of your legal claim(s) and the facts

  • Amount of damages sought (in USD)

  • Signature

🧠 Example Language for Claim:

Claim: Wrongful Deactivation Without Cause

Facts: I was deactivated on May 10, 2025, for alleged contract violations, but DoorDash failed to provide specific reasons or evidence. I believe this was in error and in violation of the Independent Contractor Agreement.

Remedy: I am seeking $2,500 in lost earnings and reinstatement as an active Dasher.

💰 Step 4: Pay the Filing Fee (or Request Waiver)

DoorDash pays any arbitration fees that exceed normal court filing fees. If you can’t afford the initial cost, request a fee waiver from the arbitration provider. If denied, DoorDash will cover the full cost.

🎧 Step 5: Attend the Arbitration

You can choose:

  • Phone

  • Video

  • In-person hearing

DoorDash and you will present evidence, and a neutral arbitrator will decide your case. Arbitration is faster and less formal than court. The decision is final and binding.

✅ Tips for Success

  • Keep all communication records with DoorDash

  • Document your issue with screenshots, pay stubs, or emails

  • Stay professional in all correspondence

  • Consult a lawyer if the issue involves serious claims (e.g. discrimination, retaliation)

🛑 Important Notes

  • You cannot join a class action against DoorDash—your case must be individual

  • Arbitration applies to most disputes, except some legal exemptions

  • If you’ve never opted out of DoorDash’s arbitration clause, you are bound by it

Final Thoughts

Filing for arbitration against Doordash can be intimidating, but knowing your rights and following the procedure step-by-step gives you the best chance of having your claim heard fairly. The process is private, binding, and usually faster than a lawsuit—but it’s vital to fulfill all conditions, especially the pre-arbitration conference requirement.

If you’re unsure, consider consulting an attorney who’s experienced in consumer arbitration.

Disclaimer: I am not an attorney, and this blog post does not constitute legal advice. The information provided here is based on my personal interpretation of the arbitration process as it relates to Doordash, and is intended for general informational purposes only. If you have specific legal concerns or need legal advice, you should consult with a licensed attorney or legal professional.