Need quick access to your earned wages before payday? While Earnin is a popular choice, several other apps offer similar services, often with unique features and potentially lower fees.
12 Best Apps Like Earnin: Get a Cash Advance Without Fees [2024]
In this guide, we'll explore the best apps like Earnin that can help you access your paycheck early and manage your finances better.
Before diving into alternatives, remember that cash advance apps should be used responsibly and only for urgent expenses. For long-term financial stability, consider checking out our guide on smart ways to save money or exploring remote jobs that are always hiring.
1. Dave
Dave offers advances up to $500 with no interest charges. The app comes with a $1 monthly membership fee and optional tips. Additional features include budgeting tools and the ability to build credit by reporting rent payments. Advance delivery time: 1-3 business days (free) or within 8 hours (for $4.99 express fee). Dave also offers a banking account with no overdraft fees and a Side Hustle feature to help users find gig work.
2. Brigit
Brigit provides advances up to $250 with a flat $9.99 monthly fee that includes automated advances, budgeting tools, and credit monitoring. No tips required or accepted. The app uses smart technology to predict when you might overdraft and automatically sends money when needed. Users also get access to identity theft protection worth $1 million and credit building features.
3. Albert
Albert advances up to $250 instantly. The basic service is free, while Albert Genius (premium features) costs $4-8 monthly on a pay-what-you-think-is-fair model. Includes automated savings, investing features, and financial guidance from human experts. Albert also offers cash back rewards on purchases and a high-yield savings account.
4. MoneyLion
MoneyLion offers Instacash advances up to $250 with no interest charges. Free delivery takes 3-5 business days, or pay $1.99-$7.99 for instant delivery. The app includes a full banking suite, automated investing, credit builder loans, and cashback rewards. RoarMoney account holders can access their direct deposit up to 2 days early.
5. Chime SpotMe
While not technically a cash advance app, Chime's SpotMe feature lets qualified users overdraft up to $200 with no fees. Requirements include receiving at least $200 in direct deposits monthly. Chime also offers early direct deposit access (up to 2 days early) and a Credit Builder credit card with no annual fee or credit check.
6. Current
Current provides overdraft protection up to $200 through its Overdrive feature with no fees. Users must receive direct deposits of at least $500 monthly to qualify. The app offers instant gas hold refunds, teen banking, and up to 15x points on debit card purchases. Premium accounts cost $4.99 monthly.
7. Empower
Empower offers cash advances up to $250 with no interest or late fees. The service costs $8 monthly after a 14-day free trial. Includes automatic savings features, cashback rewards, and interest checking. Users can get their paycheck up to 2 days early with direct deposit. No credit check required.
8. Klover
Klover provides interest-free cash advances up to $100 with no monthly fees. Users earn points by sharing data and completing activities, which can increase their advance limits. Optional express delivery fee of $2.49-$14.98. The app includes budgeting tools and a rewards program for sharing shopping data.
9. PaydApp
PaydApp offers advances up to $2,500, depending on your income and payment history. No interest charges, but there's a small fee for instant transfers. The app includes financial tracking tools and the ability to split bills with friends. Users must have regular direct deposits to qualify.
10. FloatMe
FloatMe offers small advances up to $50 for a monthly membership fee of $1.99. No interest charges or late fees. Includes budgeting tools and spending insights. The app focuses on preventing overdraft fees by providing small, manageable advances. Perfect for covering minor emergencies or unexpected expenses.
11. Possible Finance
Possible Finance offers installment loans up to $500, repayable in multiple payments rather than one lump sum. APRs are clearly stated and generally lower than payday loans. The app reports payments to credit bureaus, helping users build credit. Loan terms range from 2-4 months.
12. Branch
Branch provides earned wage access up to $500 per pay period. Standard delivery is free (3 days), or instant delivery for a small fee. The app includes a digital wallet, free checking account, and debit card. Branch partners directly with employers and offers additional workforce management tools.
Detailed Comparison of Cash Advance Apps
App | Max Advance | Monthly Fee | Instant Transfer Fee |
---|---|---|---|
Dave | $500 | $1 | $4.99 |
Brigit | $250 | $9.99 | Free |
Albert | $250 | $4-8 | $3.99-$4.99 |
MoneyLion | $250 | $0 | $1.99-$7.99 |
Chime SpotMe | $200 | $0 | N/A |
Current | $200 | $4.99 | Free |
Empower | $250 | $8 | $3.99 |
Klover | $100 | $0 | $2.49-$14.98 |
PaydApp | $2,500 | $0 | Varies |
FloatMe | $50 | $1.99 | Free |
Possible Finance | $500 | N/A | N/A |
Branch | $500 | $0 | $2.99-$4.99 |
Quick Summary:
- Highest advance: PaydApp ($2,500)
- Lowest advance: FloatMe ($50)
- Most common advance limit: $250
- Lowest monthly fee: $0 (Multiple apps)
- Highest monthly fee: $9.99 (Brigit)
- Free instant transfers: Brigit, Current, FloatMe
Important Notes:
- All fees and limits are subject to change and may vary based on your location and eligibility.
- Maximum advance amounts typically start lower for new users and increase over time.
- Early direct deposit availability depends on your employer and banking institution.
- Some apps require employer participation or specific direct deposit requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cash Advance Apps
Are cash advance apps safe to use?
Cash advance apps are generally safe when they're legitimate and well-established. Look for apps that use bank-level encryption, don't require credit checks, and are transparent about their fees. However, it's important to read terms carefully and understand the fee structure before using any financial service.
How much can you typically borrow from cash advance apps?
Most cash advance apps offer between $100 to $500 per pay period. The exact amount depends on factors like your income, spending patterns, and how long you've used the app. New users often start with lower limits that increase over time with regular use and repayment.
What are the typical fees for cash advance apps?
Fees vary by app but typically include monthly membership fees ($1-$10), optional tips (usually 1-15% of advance amount), and express delivery fees ($2-$15). Some apps charge flat fees per advance, while others operate on subscription models with unlimited advances.
What are the requirements to use cash advance apps?
Common requirements include: regular direct deposits to a checking account, employment verification, maintaining a positive bank balance, and a minimum monthly income (usually $800-$1000). Most apps also require you to be at least 18 years old and have a valid government-issued ID.
Money Management Tips
While cash advance apps can help in emergencies, they're not a long-term financial solution. Consider these alternatives for better financial health:
- Build an emergency fund covering 3-6 months of expenses
- Create a realistic budget using the 50/30/20 rule
- Explore high-paying freelance opportunities
- Negotiate bills and cut unnecessary expenses
- Consider debt consolidation for existing loans