How long does it take for an assignment to be approved?
Last updated: July 30, 2026
Summary: Assignment approval usually takes about 24 hours. After it's approved, the worker completes onboarding — which, depending on the role and location, can include payroll setup, Form I-9, any required training, and a background check or drug screen.
Approval timing
Most assignments are approved within about 24 hours. Approval runs a few automated checks — including a workers' comp classification review and a risk review — and most clear quickly. Some can take longer if a check needs a manual look (for example, a workers' comp code that's new for the client and state, or a job description that's too vague to classify).
What speeds it up
Clear, accurate job descriptions — a specific description of the real duties classifies faster. See Workers' comp codes (US) — choosing them and getting them approved.
Reusing already-approved workers' comp codes for the same client and state.
Complete client, job, and assignment details up front — see Creating clients, jobs, and assignments — what's required and what can delay going live.
If an assignment seems stuck, contact your account team or email support@ascen.com.
Related
Creating clients, jobs, and assignments — what's required and what can delay going live
Workers' comp codes (US) — choosing them and getting them approved
How long do background checks and drug tests take?