If you’ve found yourself in a situation where you can’t wait for your next payday for money, perhaps you’re considering using a cash advance mobile app. One of the most well-known financial management apps with interest-free cash advances is MoneyLion. However, there are many apps like MoneyLion that can help you quickly get the extra cash you need.
Cash advance apps front you a set amount of funds you repay, most often, the next time you get paid.
Whether you need quick cash or want a small financial safety net, cash advance apps like MoneyLion can be a helpful resource.
11 Apps Like Moneylion for Small Cash Advances
Here are some of the best cash advance apps like MoneyLion:
1. Albert
Albert is my number one recommendation for a personal finance app like MoneyLion. Launched in 2016, Albert has grown to over 5 million users, and it’s easy to see why. This app is a one-stop shop for managing your money, combining banking, budgeting, saving, and investing features in one place.
One of Albert’s main draws is the fee-free cash advance feature, allowing users to borrow between $100 and $250 until their next paycheck. (Your eligible amount depends on your monthly income). The Albert app is free to use, and the cash advance feature comes with no interest rate or monthly fee; however, there is a small fee for instant delivery.
Additionally, users can subscribe to Albert Genius, the company’s premium service, which provides personalized financial assistance from real-life experts, investment portfolios, and 24/7 account monitoring. Albert Genius allows you to pay what you feel is a fair price for the service, with $8.00 per month being the absolute minimum.
Pros:
- Fee-free cash advances up to $250
- No late fees or interest charges if you are late with repayment
- No membership fee for cash advances.
Cons:
- Customer service can only be reached via text or email.
2. Chime
Similar to MoneyLion, Chime is a digital financial app that offers a range of banking services and makes it easy and convenient for you to manage your money. With Chime, you can open a checking account (with a debit card), a credit-building credit card (with no annual fees, interest, or credit check to apply), and a high-yield savings account (with up to 2.00% APY).
A key feature of Chime is its SpotMe program. If you are shopping with your debit card and overdraft your account, SpotMe will cover you up to $200, and you won’t incur any overdraft fees. Limits usually start at $20 and increase up to $200 for users with a good repayment track record.
SpotMe is only available for Chime users; however, it is free and easy to enroll through your Chime app. Eligibility for SpotMe requires a qualifying direct deposit of at least $200 in your account every month.
Pros:
- Covers up to $200 in overdrafts on your account
- No overdraft fees
- Chime account holders get early access to direct deposits
Cons:
- Only available to Chime account holders
- Only protects overdrafts from debit card transactions
- Starts with a low $20 limit
3. Cleo
Cleo is a unique personal finance app that uses engaging AI conversation to help you track and manage your spending, saving, and budgeting. You can ask Cleo anything about your money, from, “Can I afford a cup of coffee today?” to, “Can you send me a $100 advance?” Be prepared to be roasted by Cleo when you make financial decisions that don’t align with your goals.
The Cleo app offers a cash advance feature; however, first-time borrowers will only receive advances of $20 to $70. Once you’ve shown that you can repay on time, you’ll have access to higher amounts up to $100.
Cleo’s cash advances come with no interest and no impact on your credit score. You can choose your repayment date (between 3 to 14 days). Gig or freelance workers can qualify for cash advances, as Cleo’s does not require proof of employment or W2s.
It is important to note that the cash advance feature is only available if you subscribe to the Cleo Plus plan at $5.99 per month or the Cleo Builder plan at $14.99. The Cleo Builder plan gives you access to a Cleo Credit Builder Visa and its program that helps build your credit and track your credit score.
Pros:
- Cleo Plus includes cashback rewards on your purchases
- Gig and freelance workers are eligible
Cons:
- Only available in the App
- Cash advances are only available with a monthly subscription
- Maximum advance limit caps at $100
4. Earnin
Earnin is a financial app that offers two features to help customers better manage their finances: Balance Alerts and Cash Outs.
With Balance Alerts, Earnin will notify you when your account balance falls below a specified amount (between $0 and $400), allowing you to take action before you overdraft your account.
The Cash Out feature gives you early access to your upcoming paycheck—up to $100 per day or $750 per pay period, without any interest or fees. Earnin sends you funds as a direct deposit to your bank account, and deducts your Cash Out amount on your next payday. Earning does not report repayments to the credit bureaus, so using Cash Out has no impact on your credit score.
While most banks and financial apps charge a fee for instant transfers, Earning offers “Lightning Speed” delivery, free and accessible to any user with a linked debit card.
Pros:
- No interest or fees when you use the Cash Out feature
- Low balance alerts help prevent overdraft
Cons:
- Employment details required for eligibility
- Not available to remote or freelance workers
5. Brigit
Brigit is an app dedicated to your financial wellness. It offers a variety of services, including budgeting tools, financial insights, and “Instant Cash” cash advances up to $250.
When you request an advance, you can get it in two to three business days for free, or with Express Delivery, you can pay a small fee to get it in minutes. Brigit will not check your credit, charge you interest or late fees on your repayments, or request a tip.
Additionally, Brigit offers a degree of overdraft protection. While you will need to grant Brigit access to your bank account, Brigit will detect when you have a low account balance and send you up to $250 so you can avoid costly overdraft fees.
A downside to using Brigit for cash advances is that to utilize this feature, you must join the Plus plan at $9.99 per month. The Plus plan also comes with a Credit Builder account that helps you manage your spending, build credit, and protect you from identity theft.
Pros:
- No interest, fees, or tipping
- No credit check
- Express delivery of funds with a small fee
Cons:
- Brigit needs full access to your bank account
- Monthly membership in the Plus plan ($9.99/month) is required for cash advances
6. Dave
Thanks to an endorsement from Shark Tank’s Mark Cuban, Dave is the most popular cash advance app out there, boasting over 10 million users. Primarily known for its ExtraCash feature, users can quickly borrow up to $500, without fees or a credit check.
You can opt for a free standard transfer, which can take one to three business days to hit your account. With Dave’s “express” option, funds can transfer to your account within hours for a fee of $4.99.
When you borrow money with Dave, you’ll have to agree to a settlement date (or repayment date), typically your next payday or the next nearest Friday. If you don’t have enough money to repay your advance on the settlement date, Dave may withdraw partial payments from your account until the advance is fully paid back.
The Dave app has a monthly membership fee of $1, which also gives you access to features such as budgeting tools, balance tracking, and financial goal setting.
Pros:
- No late fees
- Side hustle feature helps you search for new gigs
- Budgeting tool creates a personalized plan
Cons:
- Access requires a $1 monthly subscription fee
- Transfers can take up to 3 business days
7. Branch
The Branch app offers a convenient way to receive an advance with their “Instant Pay” feature, in which you can get up to 50% of your earned wages before your next paycheck. However, your employer must work directly with Branch for you to be eligible. Additionally, you will need to show two months of consecutive deposits in your account from the same employer.
With Branch, you don’t need to worry about credit checks, membership fees, late fees, or interest charges on your advance. There is an optional tip feature if you feel compelled to compensate Branch for its services.
The maximum cash advance amount is $150 per day or $500 per pay period. Users can get their cash advance instantly with a fee of $2.99 to $4.99, depending on the amount requested. Otherwise, it can take up to three business days to receive it. On your next payday, repayment will automatically be withdrawn from your linked bank or debit card.
Pros:
- No credit checks or late fees
- No membership or subscription fees
- Maximum advance of $500, more than many competitors
Cons:
- Not available for remote workers
- Advances can only be sent to your Branch Wallet
- Employers must have a direct relationship with Branch
8. Empower
Empower is all about giving you the power to take control of your money and improve your financial well-being with its budgeting and savings tools.
A key feature of Empower is the AutoSave feature, which helps you save money to reach your weekly financial goals, whether you’re building an emergency fund or paying down debt. If you open an account with Empower, you’ll get the Empower Debit Card, which earns you up to 10% in cashback rewards on your debit card purchases and works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
You’ll need a monthly subscription for access to Empower’s money management tools, including cash advances. There is a 14-day free trial; after that, it’s $8 a month.
Empower’s eligibility for cash advances is a bit complex, so read the fine print before you sign up. However, if you are eligible, Empower offers a no-fee and interest-free cash advance up to $250 and the ability to get access to your paycheck two days early.
Pros:
- No late fees, overdraft fees, or interest
- Instant delivery of an advance directly to your Empower debit card
- Freelance workers can qualify for a cash advance
Cons:
- $8 monthly subscription is required
- Eligibility rules are more complex than other competitors
9. Klover
With the Klover app, you can access quick cash without paying interest or membership fees. You can opt to sign-up for Klover+, which helps track your spending, monitors your credit, and offers a price comparison tool while you shop.
Klover is unique because it offers a point system that rewards users for completing certain activities, such as taking surveys or watching ads. As points accumulate, they can be used to increase your cash advance limit (up to $100) or to enter Klover’s daily sweepstakes.
Like Empower, Klover’s eligibility requirements for cash advances are a bit complex. Your account needs to reflect at least three direct deposits from the same employer in the past two months of at least $250 or more. Deposits must also be weekly or biweekly (monthly direct deposits won’t qualify you).
Klover will send you up to $100 free of charge, but express delivery fees can range from $1.99 to $9.99, depending on the amount you are requesting.
Pros:
- You can earn a higher advance with points
- No interest fees
- Membership in Klover+ is not required
Cons:
- You’ll need to share personal and financial info with the app
- Express delivery fee can be as high as $9.99
10. PayActiv
Like Branch, your employer must offer PayActiv as a benefit to their employees for you to have early access to your earnings. When linked with your employer, PayActiv can monitor your earned (but unpaid) income and access up to $500 of your earnings before your next payday. (If you have direct deposit, you can access up to $1,000).
Your funds are always available in the app, so you can transfer them to your bank account, debit card, or Payactiv Visa card anytime. Once your next direct deposit hits your account, PayActiv will automatically deduct the borrowed funds. There is no cost to become a member, but there is a $5 charge for each withdrawal.
In addition, PayActiv offers several additional services, including financial counseling, bill pay, and prescription discounts, making it more than just a payday loan alternative.
Pros:
- App is highly rated in the App Store and Google Play Store.
- Offers financial counseling and discounts on prescriptions
Cons:
- Employers must offer PayActiv as an employee benefit
11. DailyPay
DailyPay is another app that your employer must offer. The DailyPay app gives you early access to your income on a daily basis. DailyPay works with employers to integrate its platform into their payroll system as a benefit to their employees.
You can have your advance transferred to your bank account or debit card instantly (for a fee) or after a few days at no cost. With DailyPay, you can transfer funds 24/7, even immediately after completing your shift.
Enroll through your employer and download the DailyPay app to access your pay. You’ll use your company’s timekeeping system to clock in and out of your shifts. Later, you can check your balance on the app to see how much is available for an early transfer. Choose how much you want and the date you wish to receive it, and submit your request.
DailyPay also provides a Mastercard debit card for making purchases or withdrawing cash from ATMs. The DailyPay app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
Pros:
- 24/7 access to your transfers
- You can transfer daily funds
Cons:
- DailyPay needs to be linked with an employer
- Transfer fee to bank account, debit card, and payroll card
- Fee for same-day transfers
What is MoneyLion?
MoneyLion is a financial management app that offers a range of products and services to help you take control of your money and improve your personal finances.
With MoneyLion, you can receive cash advances through its Instacash feature, track your spending habits and credit score, and create savings and investment goals.
You also have access to a RoarMoney banking account, various loan types, a credit card, an investment account, and over 55,000 fee-free Allpoint ATMs.
What is InstaCash with MoneyLion?
MoneyLion offers cash advances through its InstaCash feature. With Instacash, you can request a cash advance of up to $500 without interest, fees, or a credit check.
Advance amounts start at $25; however, once MoneyLion detects more significant or recurring deposits in your account, they will bump up the amount you can request. Repayment is automatically deducted from your account on your next payday.
To access Instacash, you’ll need to download the MoneyLion app and link your checking account—this gets you 0% APR cash advances. Once you qualify, you can request an advance within the app for the amount you need (between $25 and $500).
You can choose a standard, free delivery or request a “Turbo” delivery to get a near-instant cash advance (for a small fee). Users can leave an optional tip, which, according to MoneyLion, allows it to keep this service interest-free.
What Is a Cash Advance App and How Does It Work?
In the face of a financial emergency or unexpected expense, a cash advance app provides a quick and easy way for you to borrow money on a short-term basis, often until your next paycheck arrives.
Each cash advance app has different eligibility requirements. Most commonly, users must have an active banking account (usually a checking account) they can link to the app, and may need to show that recurring direct deposits are being made into the linked account.
Once a cash advance has been requested and approved, funds are deposited directly into your account. Borrowed funds are typically due on your next payday, with the app automatically deducting the owed amount on the due date.
Some popular cash advance apps include MoneyLion, Albert, Earnin, and Dave. As each app has its own terms and conditions, be sure to read the fine print of any financial agreement, check out the app’s reviews, and compare all options to find the one that best meets your needs.
What to Look For in Cash Advance Apps Like Moneylion
The following are features that users should consider when looking into a cash advance app like MoneyLion:
- Advance limits: Cash advance limits can range anywhere from $100 to $1,000. You’ll want to choose an app that best suits your needs regarding how much you anticipate borrowing.
- Customer support: Consider the level of support offered by the app, including customer service availability and if they are easily reachable by phone, email, or online chat. Reading reviews may give you insight into how easy it is to get support when you are facing an issue with the app or have questions.
- Ease of use: Is the app efficient and easy to navigate? Does it have a user-friendly interface?
- Eligibility requirements: Most cash advance apps have requirements in order to qualify for an advance, such as having an active account with a set number of direct deposits every month.
- Features: Are you looking for an app with more functionality than cash advances? Some apps serve as financial tools for users that assist with budgeting, saving, and credit monitoring. Some are digital banking options that offer all of the above, plus a bank account and debit or credit card.
- Fees: Before signing up with any app, you’ll want to know any fees associated with using it. This could include monthly subscription fees, transaction fees, or fees for faster delivery. It’s essential to consider ahead of time if these fees are reasonable for you and if they fit into your budget.
- Security: These apps will hold your personal and financial information—you’ll want to ensure that the app you choose is secure and takes the appropriate measures to protect your data.
- Turnaround time: How long does a cash advance take? Consider each app’s turnaround time to receive your money compared to how quick they are in seeking repayment. If you need quick cash, you’ll want to weigh the fees associated with receiving cash instantly against what you’ll already need to pay back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are loan apps like MoneyLion better than payday loans?
Apps like MoneyLion are designed to help improve your financial stability, unlike payday loans which have high-interest rates and ultimately trap individuals in a cycle of debt.
Cash advance apps limit the amount you can borrow to what can reasonably be paid back and provide additional resources and support to help improve financial stability in the long run.
How quickly will I get my money with a cash advance app like Moneylion?
The speed at which you receive money from a cash advance app like MoneyLion depends on a few factors, including the application process and approval time.
Setting up an account usually takes one to two days for approval, and involves filling out an online application with your personal information (including your Social Security number, date of birth, employment information, and banking information).
Once approved, you can request a cash advance, which can arrive within a few minutes and up to three business days. Some apps charge a small fee for express delivery.
What apps like MoneyLion let me borrow money instantly?
Albert, Earnin’, Klover, Dave, Brigit, and Branch will allow you to transfer money instantly, among several others.
Keep in mind there is often a fee for faster delivery of funds. Be sure to research and read reviews of the apps as well as the terms and conditions before enrolling in a cash advance app.
Which are the Best Apps Like MoneyLion for You?
Ultimately, many cash-advance apps work similarly, but each has its own unique features. Apps such as MoneyLion can be a useful tool for those needing a small loan until their next paycheck.
Remember that cash advances can come with certain fees or membership requirements, so before signing up with an app or requesting an advance, read the fine print and understand any fees that can accompany it.
It’s also important to consider that if you are self-employed or a gig worker, you may only qualify for certain cash advances or set limits.
If you are considering an app like MoneyLion, carefully review your options. Remember that most of these apps will require your personal information and access to your bank account.
Additionally, if the app requires a partnership with your employer, be sure to verify this with your HR department before signing up.