INSTACART* Charge (What It Is + Is It Legit?)

Instacart uses the truncated descriptor "INSTACART*" on bank statements because payment processors like Stripe, which Instacart relies on to handle transactions, often append an asterisk to a merchant's name to indicate it is a platform-based or third-party facilitated charge rather than a direct retail purchase. The asterisk convention also helps distinguish individual Instacart grocery delivery orders from other Instacart-related charges, such as subscription fees for Instacart+, making it easier to identify the nature of the transaction at a glance. If you see "INSTACART*" on your statement alongside a charge around $45.00, it almost certainly reflects a completed grocery delivery order placed through the Instacart app or website.

No, this is a legitimate charge from Instacart. However, if you did not authorize this charge or cancelled your subscription, you may be eligible for a refund.

Frequently Asked Questions