19 apps like Dave for small cash advances (2024)

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If you’re in need of a small cash advance to tide you over till your next payday, Dave is a popular app that comes to mind. However, if you’re interested in exploring other options, there are several great apps like Dave that you can consider.

These apps offer cash advances and a range of personal finance features to help you manage your money better. From budgeting tools to overdraft protection and credit monitoring, they can provide a comprehensive suite of financial services.

So if you’re looking for a reliable and convenient way to access cash when needed, check out some other apps like Dave that are available in the market.

Best apps like Dave

Here are some apps similar to Dave that offer small cash advances with minimal or no fees:

1. Chime

Chime is a financial service provider that offers cash advance services up to $200 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals. One of the standout features of Chime’s SpotMe program is that it does not charge overdraft fees. However, it is not a cash advance but rather a line of credit that remains available when you go over your limit using your Chime debit card.

Most users start with a lower credit limit of $20, but with a positive credit history, this amount can increase to $200. If you exceed your bank account limit, Chime will automatically cover the overdraft, reducing your available line. Then, Chime automatically takes the payment from your next paycheck to repay the loan.

To qualify for Chime’s services, you must have direct deposits of at least $200 in the last 30 days and an active Chime Visa debit card. One of the pros of using Chime is that there are no overdraft fees, monthly service fees, or penalty fees. Additionally, Chime offers early access to your paycheck, which can be very beneficial when covering unexpected expenses.

However, there are some cons to consider before using Chime’s services. One of the significant drawbacks is that advances are only allowed with a Chime account and Visa debit card. Also, initial credit limits are relatively low, which may not be sufficient for individuals who need more significant financial assistance.

2. Varo

Varo is a financial institution that offers cash advances of up to $500 to its customers. The best part is that they don’t require tips or interest payments. Instead, you pay a flat fee based on the advance amount, and you repay it on your next payday.

To qualify for a cash advance, you must have had an active Varo checking account for the last 30 days and have received at least $800 in direct deposits in that time. Once approved, you have 30 days to repay the loan, and Varo will automatically withdraw the funds.

One of the benefits of using Varo is that cash advances of $20 or less have no fees. Additionally, you get early access to your direct deposit paycheck, and you have access to many online banking features.

However, it’s important to note that the cash advance limit is relatively low, and the fees associated with the cash advance limits are high. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate whether a Varo cash advance is the best option for your financial situation before making a decision.

3. Empower

Empower is a cash advance app that offers members up to $250 without requiring a credit check or imposing any fees. If you need the money immediately, you can pay a fee to get an instant transfer; otherwise, the transfer takes a few days. The funds can be deposited into an external bank account or your Empower card.

To qualify for this service, you need to have a consistent record of direct deposits from your employer, a positive bank account history, and a long history of direct deposits.

Empower has several pros. It allows you to track all your finances in one place, providing a comprehensive overview of your financial situation. You can also easily access funds to avoid overdrafts with no fees. Empower makes saving money automatic, making it easy to reach your financial goals.

However, there are a few cons to be aware of. While Empower’s service is convenient and helpful, it comes at a high monthly cost that you should consider before signing up. Additionally, Empower only allows cash advances up to $250, which may not be sufficient for everyone’s needs.

4. Cleo

Cleo is a personal finance application powered by AI technology that assists you in managing your finances. It can help you cover unexpected expenses and stay afloat until payday. One of the main features of Cleo is that it can offer you up to $250 as a cash advance, with no credit check or interest fees. However, if this is your first time using this feature, the cap is set at $100.

The process to qualify for a cash advance is quite simple. First, you need to connect your bank account to the Cleo app. Then, in the app’s chat feature, type “cash advance.” You will be prompted to confirm your identity to ensure that you are requesting a cash advance. Once that is done, you can choose the payment and repayment dates that suit you best and authorize auto-pay.

While Cleo’s cash advances take 3-4 days, they offer an express fee option to receive the advance on the same day. However, it’s important to note that cash advances are only available if you have a subscription to Cleo Plus or Cleo Builder, which range from $5.99 to $14.99 per month.

One of the many pros of using Cleo is its flexibility in terms of repayment options. You can choose the dates that work best for you and have the payments automatically deducted. Additionally, there are no interest or fees associated with the cash advances, making it a cost-effective solution.

However, one of the cons of using Cleo is that it requires a paid subscription to access its cash advance feature. Additionally, new users are capped at $100 for their first cash advance.

5. Albert

Albert is a cash advance app gaining popularity among people who need quick access to cash. With Albert, you can get up to $250 in cash advances, and like Dave, they don’t charge any interest or fees. The payment process is straightforward, and you can get up to three cash advances per pay period. However, the total amount of cash advances cannot exceed $250.

To qualify for a cash advance from Albert, you need to meet certain criteria. Firstly, you must have an active checking account for at least 60 days. Secondly, you must prove that you have direct deposit in the same account. Thirdly, you must provide proof of a stable income for at least the last 60 days from the same employer. Lastly, you must prove that you have funds in your account 24 hours after payday.

One benefit of using Albert is that there are no monthly service fees. Moreover, you can access your direct deposit funds early, which is great if you need the money urgently. However, there are some cons to be aware of. Joint accounts are not allowed, and most features require a $14.99 monthly subscription. Additionally, the APY on savings accounts is relatively low.

6. Axos

Axos is a financial institution that offers a unique service called ‘Direct Deposit Express,’ which enables customers to access their paychecks a few days before their scheduled payday. Although they do not provide cash advances or loans like Dave, they offer early access to your paycheck, which can be incredibly helpful in emergencies.

This service may sound strange, but it has plenty of benefits. Unlike most banks that hold your funds until the deposit clears, Axos provides immediate access to your paycheck as soon as they receive word from your employer that the deposit has been made. For most people, this means getting their pay a few days before their intended payday.

The best part of this service is that once you receive your paycheck, you can use it to cover any urgent expenses or bills that may have arisen before your scheduled payday. This can be a lifesaver for people who live paycheck to paycheck or need quick cash.

In addition to early access to your paycheck, Axos offers an increased APY on account balances if you perform simple tasks. Additionally, they do not charge any monthly fees, which is a plus for anyone looking to save on banking costs.

However, there are some cons to consider. For instance, Axos does not offer cash advance options for extra funds in an emergency. You must also pay $50 to open an account with them, which can be a turnoff for some people. Lastly, you must set up direct deposit to be eligible for early paycheck access.

7. Earnin

Earnin is a financial app that provides early access to your earned money. The app believes that if you’ve worked hard for your money, you should have access to it when needed. With Earnin, you can access up to $100 a day and up to $750 per pay period without worrying about fees or interest charges.

To start using the app, download it and verify your income and employment. Once you’ve done that, Earnin will track your work hours and calculate how much money you can access early. You must have direct deposit set up for your income to be eligible for early access to your funds.

When you request funds through the app, the money will be transferred to your bank account early, before your payday. Most transfers take a few days to process, but if you’re in a hurry, you can opt for a Lightning Speed transfer for a small fee.

One benefit of using Earnin is that it can help you avoid overdraft fees. The app will notify you when your account balance is low, so you can avoid spending more than you have. Additionally, Earnin will automatically deduct the amount you’ve already advanced from your next paycheck, so you don’t have to worry about making payments or paying interest.

While Earnin can be a helpful financial tool, there are a few drawbacks to consider. For instance, you need to provide the app with access to your checking account and set up direct deposit to be eligible for early access to your funds. Also, it can be tempting to rely on the app to access your earned funds early, which can become a bad habit if you’re not careful.

8. Payactiv

Payactiv is a mobile application that helps you access your earned income before your payday arrives. However, this app is only accessible if your employer subscribes. Once you can access the app, you can easily transfer the funds to your bank account or debit card, or withdraw cash from an ATM. Payactiv works by tracking the hours you have worked and determining the accessible amount of your earnings that you can transfer each day. You can also set up automatic transfers or manually transfer the funds as needed.

One of the most significant advantages of using Payactiv is that it does not charge fees or penalties for transferring funds. Moreover, the app offers several standout features that make it more convenient for you to manage your finances. For instance, it provides a savings tool that allows you to set aside a portion of your earnings in a separate account. Additionally, Payactiv offers a bill payment feature that lets you pay your bills directly from the app.

Despite these benefits, Payactiv has some downsides. The most significant disadvantage is that you cannot access your earned funds without your employer subscribing to the app. Moreover, using the app could lead to bad spending habits before payday, which could be detrimental to your financial health. Lastly, the site isn’t very user-friendly, which may make it difficult for some users to navigate.

9. MoneyLion

MoneyLion is a personal finance app that offers cash advances and helps members manage their finances and achieve their financial goals. Like Dave, MoneyLion offers higher cash advance limits for some members—up to $500 for those who receive their paycheck via direct deposit and link their bank account.

If you open a MoneyLion RoarMoney Account, you may be eligible for cash advances up to $1,000. However, most transfers take a few business days to process. If you need instant access to your funds, you can pay a small Turbo Fee.

To qualify for a cash advance with MoneyLion, you must have an active checking account for at least 60 days, receive regular direct deposits from your employer, and ensure that your account has not been negative.

One advantage of MoneyLion is its many personal finance features, which can help members better manage their money and reach their financial goals. However, it’s worth noting that you need a MoneyLion bank account to access higher cash advances. Additionally, cash advances may take longer to process than those of other similar apps.

10. DailyPay

DailyPay is a financial service that offers a unique feature called ‘earned wage access.’ This means that instead of waiting for payday, employees can access their earned income as they make it. Unlike Dave, which offers an advance on a portion of your paycheck, DailyPay gives you access to 100% of your earned income, less taxes and liabilities. This makes it ideal for someone experiencing a true emergency and needing more than $500 to cover the problem.

Your employer must offer DailyPay to use the service. If they do, the app integrates with your company’s timekeeping system to track how much you’ve worked and earned. After each shift, the app tells you your earnings and what’s available for early transfer. You can transfer funds 24/7 and send them wherever you need them.

One of DailyPay’s benefits is that you can set up automatic savings. This feature allows you to save a certain percentage of your earnings automatically, helping you build an emergency fund or save for a specific goal.

However, there are some downsides to consider. Since DailyPay offers early access to earned income, it can become a bad habit to rely on this service and access your earnings early. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, the service is only available if your employer offers it.

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Another potential issue is customer service. Some users have reported that it can be challenging to reach a representative. This is essential to keep in mind when considering whether to use DailyPay.

11. Brigit

Brigit is a financial app that is quite similar to the Dave app. It provides a cash advance feature called ‘Instant Cash’ and allows users to access personal finance tools to monitor their financial health. With Brigit, subscribers can request up to $250 in cash advances. However, the initial cash advance limits are generally lower until subscribers demonstrate they can repay their advances on time.

Typically, most borrowers pay back their advances on their upcoming payday. However, if you need more time, you can request an extension. Deposits can take a few business days to process, but you can pay a small fee to receive an instant transfer. One thing to note is that Brigit charges a monthly fee of $9.99 to access their ‘Instant Cash’ feature, unlike the Dave app.

To qualify for Brigit’s cash advance feature, you must have an active checking account for the past two months. You must also prove that you have received at least three consistent direct deposits from your employer and maintain a positive balance.

One of the main advantages of using Brigit is that there are no interest or fees on cash advances. Moreover, you can set up automatic advances to avoid overdraft fees. Brigit works with over 6,000 banks across the United States. However, the downside is that the monthly fee of $9.99 is relatively high. Additionally, to get a cash advance, you need to have an external bank account.

12. One@Work

One@Work, previously known as Even, is an app that allows eligible employees to access up to 50% of their earned income early with Instapay. This app collaborates with the leading employers in the country to provide employees with the option of early access to their earned funds. The app displays the earned income, and you can choose the amount you need to borrow and repay it on your next payday, without any interest or fees.

One of the significant benefits of One@Work is that it allows employees to access their earned funds early, which can be helpful in financial emergencies. Moreover, this app collaborates with thousands of employers and banks, making it accessible to many people.

However, One@Work has some drawbacks that you should consider before using it. First, accessing earned funds early can lead to bad spending habits, and you may end up borrowing more than you need. Additionally, this app only works if your employer signs up for it, so if your employer doesn’t participate, you won’t be able to use One@Work.

13. Cash App

Cash App is a mobile payment service that offers a loan program to its users. The program allows users to borrow up to $200, subject to availability. The loan comes with a flat five-percent interest rate, which is a reasonable rate compared to other loan services. However, users must pay off their balance within four weeks, which is considered a relatively short-term loan.

It is important to note that once the grace period ends, the interest rate increases to 1.25 percent per week, which can quickly add up if the loan is not paid off in a timely manner. To avoid any additional charges, it is recommended to repay the loan balance within the four-week period.

In addition to the loan program, Cash App also offers various other features, such as the ability to send and receive payments to other users. This feature is quite convenient, especially for those who frequently transfer money to friends and family. Additionally, Cash App allows users to file their taxes, a unique feature that sets it apart from other payment services.

14. FloatMe

FloatMe is a unique app that combines the features of a best friend and a financial app all in one. It is designed to protect your bank account(s) using Plaid, which mediates between your bank and finance apps. With FloatMe, you don’t have to worry about unauthorized access to your bank account because it is completely secure.

One of FloatMe’s best features is that it offers Floats, which are essentially cash advances that you can request up to $50 to cover any surprise expenses until payday. This means you can easily manage your finances and avoid overdraft fees or any other charges that may arise due to unexpected expenses.

In addition, FloatMe provides you with a detailed record of all your past transactions so you can track your spending and manage your budget effectively. This feature helps you identify areas where you might be overspending and make the necessary adjustments to stay on track.

The cost of FloatMe is relatively low, at only $2 per month, making it an affordable and convenient option for anyone looking to manage their finances more effectively. If you’re still unsure, you can try FloatMe for free for 30 days, with no obligation to continue using the app if you’re not satisfied.

15. Grid

Are you looking for a way to get some extra cash and maximize your tax refund? Look no further than Grid! With CashBoost, you can receive a cash advance of up to $200 without fees or credit checks. This can come in handy if you have unexpected expenses to cover or just need a little extra cash to hold you over until payday.

In addition to CashBoost, Grid also offers PayBoost, which allows you to receive a portion of your tax refund each month (up to $250) from each paycheck, free of charge. This can help you avoid the temptation to spend your entire refund at once, while also providing you with a steady stream of income throughout the year.

To get started with Grid, you need only sign up for a free account. However, if you want access to additional features like the BoostCard and more time to pay off your debt, you may want to consider upgrading to the Grid Plus account for just $10 per month. With Grid Plus, you’ll enjoy various benefits that can help you better manage your finances and make the most of your money.

16. Klover – Instant Cash Advance

Klover is an app that offers an instant cash advance without requiring a credit check, charging interest, or imposing hidden fees. It is designed to provide quick and easy access to cash when you need it most.

But that’s not all! In addition to the cash advance feature, Klover offers other great benefits that can help you manage your finances better. For instance, the app offers daily sweepstakes that offer exciting rewards to its users.

You can also access credit and spending monitoring tools, which allow you to track your expenses and make better financial decisions. Furthermore, Klover offers point-earning opportunities that enable you to increase your cash advance amount.

17. Possible Finance

Possible Finance is an app that offers a convenient and accessible way to borrow and pay back loans. It is designed to cater to individuals with all types of credit scores, including those with not-so-good credit. With Possible Finance, you can borrow up to $500, and if you’re a California resident, up to $250.

This app lets you pay off your balance in four installments, making it easier to manage your finances. Even if you miss a payment, you won’t be penalized with late fees, which makes it a great option for those who may have a difficult time keeping up with payments or have unexpected expenses. Possible Finance is a user-friendly solution for anyone who needs a quick and easy loan without the hassle of traditional lending institutions.

18. SoLo Funds

SoLo Funds is a cash advance app that distinguishes itself from traditional lending platforms by offering a unique approach. It enables members to assist other members in need of financial support. To request a loan, you need to create an account and provide a valid ID. Once you have done that, you can post why you need a loan. After that, other members can view your loan request and offer to lend the money you require.

What makes SoLo Funds different from other cash advance apps is that it creates a win-win situation for lenders and borrowers. For borrowers, they receive a SoLo Score, which increases every time they pay back their loans promptly. As your SoLo Score gets higher, you can request larger loans. This incentivizes borrowers to pay back their loans on time, which increases their creditworthiness and their chances of receiving larger loans in the future.

On the lending side, members can also receive perks. When you lend money to borrowers, they can choose to tip you. This tipping system creates a sense of goodwill among members and encourages them to help others in need. It also incentivizes lenders to provide loans, knowing they could receive a tip in return.

19. Vola Finance

If you need a quick financial boost, consider downloading Vola Finance to your phone. With Vola Finance, you can access up to $300 with no interest or hidden fees. All that’s required is a subscription fee, which typically ranges from around $3 to $29 per month. This fee is a small price for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a financial safety net.

Vola Finance offers a variety of helpful tools to assist you with money management. For example, you can use spending analytics to track your expenses and identify areas where you can cut back. This can be particularly useful if you’re trying to save money or pay off debt. Additionally, Vola Finance offers a finance blog full of helpful tips and advice on a wide range of financial topics. Whether you want to improve your credit score or learn more about investing, you’ll find plenty of useful information on the Vola Finance blog.

The Dave app

The Dave app is a personal finance tool that offers a unique cash advance feature to help you manage your finances. With Dave, you can request a cash advance of up to $500, depending on your qualifying factors. However, please note that the limit may change frequently and depends on your qualifying factors, so it’s always a good idea to check before requesting a cash advance.

It’s important to keep in mind that there is a $1 membership fee that you’ll need to pay year-round, even if you don’t use the app. But the good news is that requesting a cash advance is easy. All you need to do is sign up with Dave and request the cash advance.

To qualify for a cash advance, you’ll need a checking account that’s at least 60 days old and have at least two recurring direct deposits from your employer. Additionally, your account must have a positive balance. Dave will also consider your spending history in your linked account, the time until your next payday, and how much you receive via direct deposit monthly.

One of the best things about Dave is that it doesn’t check your credit for cash advances, so it won’t affect your credit score. Once approved for a cash advance, you can send the funds directly to an external bank account for no fee or an external prepaid debit card for a small fee. Additionally, Dave offers the option to open a Dave Spending account (through Evolve Bank & Trust) for immediate access to the funds. You’ll pay back the funds through automatic withdrawal on your next payday.

Overall, Dave is a great tool for managing your finances and getting access to cash when you need it most. With a few simple qualifying factors and easy repayment options, it’s definitely worth considering if you’re in need of a cash advance.

How to sign up

To register for the Dave app, you will need to visit their website and complete the registration process.

When you need a cash advance, you can use the Dave app to request one. The app will guide you through the process and provide you with all the necessary information, including the amount you are eligible to borrow and the fees associated with the advance. Please note that you must have an active Dave account to request a cash advance through the app.

How do you apply for apps like Dave that provide funds?

When you apply for cash advance apps like Dave, you will usually be asked to provide information about yourself, such as your identity and employment status. Additionally, you may need to link your external bank account to the app so that the loan can be deposited directly into your account.

It’s important to note that cash advance apps have certain eligibility criteria that must be met. To qualify for a loan, you must demonstrate that you have a steady income and that you will be able to pay back the loan on your next payday. Therefore, if you have a negative balance in your bank account or recently opened a new account, you may not be eligible for a cash advance. This is because these factors could indicate that you are not financially stable and may be unable to repay the loan on time.

What is the biggest cash advance you can make with apps like Dave?

Cash advance apps usually limit cash advances to around $200, but some may allow advances of $500 to $1,000, although such high amounts may not be made available immediately. However, most apps require you to prove your ability to repay smaller advances before enabling anything larger.

This usually means that before you can qualify for a larger cash advance, you need to have a proven track record of timely repayments on smaller advances. Most apps want to ensure their users are not taking on more debt than they can handle.

How quickly do you get an advance using apps like Dave?

If you want to receive your cash advance for free, the transfer process can take a few business days. However, if you’re in a hurry and need the funds urgently, you can opt for an instant transfer by paying a small fee, usually $5 or less. With an instant transfer, you’ll receive the funds in just a few minutes, which can be very helpful if you’re in a bind.

The bottom line

It’s no secret that financial stress is a major concern for many Americans. In fact, studies show that almost three-quarters of people in the US worry about having enough money to cover their expenses. Fortunately, there are now a variety of cash advance apps available that can help alleviate some of that stress.

One such app is Dave, which allows users to quickly and easily access small, short-term loans. Whether you’re facing an unexpected car repair, a medical bill, or any other type of emergency expense, Dave and similar apps can be a real lifesaver. By providing fast, convenient access to cash, these apps offer a sense of security and peace of mind that can be invaluable in times of financial need.

If you or someone you know is struggling with money worries, consider exploring the options offered by cash advance apps like Dave.