Sometimes, you may find yourself in a tight spot where you need some extra cash to cover an unexpected expense or an emergency. Maybe your car broke down, your rent is due, or your fridge is empty. Whatever the reason, you don’t want to resort to expensive payday loans or overdraft fees that can put you in a debt trap.
Fortunately, there are some cash advance apps that can help you access your earned wages before payday or offer you a small loan with low or no fees. These apps can be a lifesaver when you need money fast and don’t have any other options. However, they are not a long-term solution and should be used responsibly and sparingly.
In this article, we will review 12 of the best cash advance apps that can cover you until payday. We will compare their features, fees, eligibility, and pros and cons. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about cash advance apps and provide some tips on how to use them wisely.
What are cash advance apps?
Cash advance apps are mobile applications that allow you to Borrow Money Till Payday from your future paycheck or income. They are also known as payday advance apps, paycheck advance apps, or earned wage access apps. They are different from payday loans, which are short-term loans that charge high interest rates and fees.
Cash advance apps work by either:
- Connecting to your bank account and tracking your income and spending patterns. They then calculate how much you can borrow based on your earnings and expenses. You can request a cash advance up to a certain limit and receive it instantly or within a few days. The app will deduct the amount you borrowed plus any fees or tips from your next paycheck or income source.
- Offering you a line of credit or a personal loan that you can apply for and receive within minutes. You can choose how much you want to borrow and how long you want to repay it. The app will charge you a fixed fee or interest rate based on the amount and duration of your loan. You can repay the loan in installments or in full on your due date.
Cash advance apps are designed to help you avoid overdraft fees, late fees, or payday loans when you need money urgently. They are usually cheaper and more convenient than these alternatives, but they are not free. Most cash advance apps charge fees, interest, or tips for their service. Some also require a membership or subscription fee to access their features.
Cash advance apps are not available in all states, as some states have laws that regulate or prohibit them. You should check the app’s terms and conditions and your state’s laws before using a cash advance app.
What are the benefits of cash advance apps?
Cash advance apps have several advantages over other forms of borrowing, such as:
- They are fast and convenient. You can request a cash advance anytime, anywhere, using your smartphone. You don’t need to fill out lengthy forms, provide collateral, or undergo a credit check. You can get the money in your account within minutes or a few days, depending on the app and the fee.
- They are low-cost or free. Most cash advance apps don’t charge interest or fees for their service. Instead, they rely on voluntary tips from their users, or charge a small monthly subscription fee. Some apps also waive the fees or tips if you meet certain criteria, such as having a direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance. Compared to payday loans, which can have APRs of up to 400%, cash advance apps are much more affordable and transparent.
- They are safer and more responsible. Cash advance apps only let you borrow what you’ve already earned, so you don’t risk getting into a debt cycle. They also limit the amount you can borrow per pay period, so you don’t overextend yourself. Some apps also provide financial education and guidance to help you improve your money management skills and avoid overdrafts and late fees.
What are the drawbacks of cash advance apps?
Cash advance apps are not without their drawbacks, such as:
- They are not a long-term solution. Cash advance apps are meant to be used for short-term cash flow issues, not for chronic financial problems. If you rely on them too often, you may end up spending more than you earn, and reduce your future income. You may also miss out on the opportunity to save and invest your money for your long-term goals.
- They may not cover your needs. Cash advance apps have limits on how much you can borrow per pay period, which may not be enough to cover your emergency expenses. You may also not qualify for a cash advance if you don’t have a steady income, a regular pay schedule, or a bank account. In that case, you may need to look for other sources of funding, such as personal loans, credit cards, or family and friends.
- They may affect your taxes and benefits. Cash advance apps are not considered loans, but rather advances on your income. This means that they may affect your tax liability and your eligibility for certain benefits, such as unemployment, food stamps, or Medicaid. You should consult a tax professional or a benefits counselor before using a cash advance app to understand the potential implications.
How to choose the best cash advance app for your needs?
There are many cash advance apps available in the market, each with its own features, fees, and requirements. To choose the best one for your needs, you should consider the following factors:
- The amount you can borrow. Different apps have different limits on how much you can borrow per pay period, ranging from $50 to $500. You should choose an app that can cover your needs, but not more than you can afford to repay.
- The speed of delivery. Some apps can transfer the money to your account within minutes, while others may take a few days. You should choose an app that can deliver the money as fast as you need it, but also be aware of the fees involved. Some apps charge a higher fee for faster delivery, while others offer it for free or a low cost.
- The fees and tips. Most apps don’t charge interest or fees for their service, but some may ask for voluntary tips or charge a monthly subscription fee. You should choose an app that fits your budget and your values. Some apps let you choose how much you want to tip, while others suggest a tip based on the amount you borrow. Some apps also offer discounts or rewards for tipping or subscribing.
- The eligibility requirements. Some apps have stricter eligibility requirements than others, such as having a minimum income, a direct deposit, a regular pay schedule, or a bank account. You should choose an app that you can qualify for, and that can verify your income and pay schedule easily and securely.
- The customer service and support. Some apps have better customer service and support than others, such as having a live chat, a phone number, an email, or a FAQ section. You should choose an app that you can contact easily and that can answer your questions and resolve your issues promptly and professionally.
12 Cash Advance Apps That Cover You Until Payday
Here are 12 of the best cash advance apps that can help you Borrow Money Till Payday. We have ranked them based on their features, fees, eligibility, and customer reviews. We have also included their pros and cons and some real-life examples or case studies to illustrate how they work.
1. Earnin
Earnin is one of the most popular and trusted cash advance apps that lets you access your earned wages before payday. You can borrow up to $100 per day or $500 per pay period, depending on your income and hours worked. You can receive the money instantly or within one business day. You don’t have to pay any fees or interest, but you can leave a voluntary tip to support the app.
To use Earnin, you need to have a regular paycheck, a bank account, and a smartphone. You also need to have a fixed work location or an online timekeeping system. You can connect the app to your bank account and your employer’s payroll system. The app will verify your income and hours and calculate how much you can borrow. You can request a cash advance anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
Earnin also offers other features, such as:
- Balance Shield: This feature alerts you when your bank balance is low and automatically transfers up to $100 to your account to prevent overdraft fees. You can activate this feature for free once or pay a monthly fee to use it regularly.
- Cash Back Rewards: This feature allows you to earn up to 10% cash back when you shop at participating local and national merchants. You can choose to receive the cash back in your bank account or use it to tip the app.
- Health Aid: This feature helps you negotiate and reduce your medical bills. You can submit your medical bills to the app and let the app’s team of experts handle the rest. You can pay what you can afford or tip the app for the service.
- Tip Yourself: This feature helps you save money by letting you tip yourself for your achievements. You can create a personal or a community savings goal and transfer money from your checking account to your Tip Jar. You can withdraw the money anytime you want or use it to tip the app.
Pros:
- No fees or interest, only optional tips
- Fast and easy access to your earned wages
- No credit check or impact on your credit score
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and hours
- Not available in all states or for all employers
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Alice works as a waitress at a local restaurant. She earns $15 per hour and gets paid every two weeks. She usually works 40 hours per week, but sometimes she has to work overtime or take extra shifts. She uses Earnin to access her earned wages before payday. She connects the app to her bank account and her employer’s timekeeping system. The app verifies her income and hours and calculates how much she can borrow. She can borrow up to $100 per day or $500 per pay period, depending on how much she has earned.
One week, Alice has an unexpected car repair that costs $300. She doesn’t have enough money in her bank account to cover it. She decides to use Earnin to get a cash advance. She requests $300 from the app and receives it instantly in her bank account. She pays the mechanic and gets her car fixed. She doesn’t have to pay any fees or interest, but she leaves a $10 tip to support the app. On her next payday, the app deducts $310 from her paycheck and closes the transaction.
2. Dave
Dave is another popular and trusted cash advance app that offers you a small loan to cover your expenses until your next payday. You can borrow up to $200 with no interest or credit check. You can receive the money within one to three business days for free or within eight hours for a small fee. You have to pay a $1 monthly membership fee to use the app.
To use Dave, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You can link the app to your bank account and your income source. The app will analyze your income and spending patterns and predict your future balance. It will alert you when you are at risk of overdrawing your account and offer you a cash advance to avoid fees. You can request a cash advance anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
Dave also offers other features, such as:
- Budgeting Tools: This feature helps you create a personalized budget and track your expenses. You can see how much money you have left until your next payday and how much you can spend on different categories. You can also set spending limits and get tips to save money.
- Side Hustles: This feature helps you find extra income opportunities in your area. You can browse through hundreds of gigs and jobs that match your skills and availability. You can apply for them directly from the app and earn extra cash.
- Credit Builder: This feature helps you improve your credit score by reporting your rent and utility payments to the credit bureaus. You can enroll in this feature for free and link your bills to the app. The app will verify your payments and report them to the credit bureaus. You can also get a free credit score check and credit monitoring from the app.
Pros:
- No interest or credit check, only a small membership fee
- Fast and easy access to a small loan
- No overdraft fees or late fees
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and bank balance
- Not available in all states or for all income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Bob works as a delivery driver for a food delivery app. He earns $20 per hour and gets paid every week. He usually works 30 hours per week, but sometimes he has to work more or less depending on the demand. He uses Dave to access a small loan before payday. He links the app to his bank account and his income source. The app analyzes his income and spending patterns and predicts his future balance. It alerts him when he is at risk of overdrawing his account and offers him a cash advance to avoid fees.
One week, Bob has a medical emergency that costs $150. He doesn’t have enough money in his bank account to cover it. He decides to use Dave to get a cash advance. He requests $150 from the app and receives it within eight hours for a $4.99 fee. He pays the doctor and gets treated. He doesn’t have to pay any interest or late fees, but he pays a $1 monthly membership fee to use the app. On his next payday, the app deducts $155.99 from his paycheck and closes the transaction.
3. Brigit
Brigit is another popular and trusted cash advance app that offers you a line of credit to cover your expenses until your next payday. You can borrow up to $250 with no interest, fees, or credit check. You can receive the money within one to two business days for free or within minutes for a small fee. You have to pay a $9.99 monthly membership fee to use the app.
To use Brigit, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You can link the app to your bank account and your income source. The app will monitor your income and spending patterns and predict your future balance. It will alert you when you are at risk of overdrawing your account and offer you a cash advance to avoid fees. You can request a cash advance anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
Brigit also offers other features, such as:
- Budgeting Tools: This feature helps you create a personalized budget and track your expenses. You can see how much money you have left until your next payday and how much you can spend on different categories. You can also set spending limits and get tips to save money.
- Extensions: This feature allows you to extend your due date by up to three days if you need more time to repay your cash advance. You can request an extension anytime before your due date and avoid late fees or penalties.
- Credit Builder: This feature helps you improve your credit score by reporting your cash advance payments to the credit bureaus. You can enroll in this feature for free and link your Brigit account to the app. The app will verify your payments and report them to the credit bureaus. You can also get a free credit score check and credit monitoring from the app.
Pros:
- No interest, fees, or credit check, only a small membership fee
- Fast and easy access to a line of credit
- No overdraft fees or late fees
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and bank balance
- Not available in all states or for all income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Carol works as a teacher at a local school. She earns $25 per hour and gets paid every month. She usually works 40 hours per week, but sometimes she has to work extra hours or take unpaid leave. She uses Brigit to access a line of credit before payday. She links the app to her bank account and her income source. The app monitors her income and spending patterns and predicts her future balance. It alerts her when she is at risk of overdrawing her account and offers her a cash advance to avoid fees.
One month, Carol has to take a week off to take care of her sick mother. She doesn’t get paid for the time she missed and her paycheck is lower than usual. She doesn’t have enough money in her bank account to pay her bills and buy groceries. She decides to use Brigit to get a cash advance. She requests $200 from the app and receives it within minutes for a $3.99 fee. She pays her bills and buys groceries. She doesn’t have to pay any interest or late fees, but she pays a $9.99 monthly membership fee to use the app. On her next payday, the app deducts $203.99 from her paycheck and closes the transaction.
4. MoneyLion
MoneyLion is another popular and trusted cash advance app that offers you a personal loan to cover your expenses until your next payday. You can borrow up to $250 with no interest, fees, or credit check. You can receive the money within minutes or within one to two business days. You have to pay a $19.99 monthly membership fee to use the app.
To use MoneyLion, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You can link the app to your bank account and your income source. The app will verify your income and eligibility and approve you for a loan. You can request a loan anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
MoneyLion also offers other features, such as:
- Banking Services: This feature allows you to open a checking account and a debit card with MoneyLion. You can use the debit card to access over 55,000 fee-free ATMs, get cash back rewards, and pay bills online. You can also get up to $250 in overdraft protection and up to 12% APY on your savings account.
- Investing Services: This feature allows you to open an investment account and a robo-advisor with MoneyLion. You can invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds with as little as $1. You can also get personalized advice, market insights, and financial education from the app.
- Credit Builder Services: This feature allows you to improve your credit score by reporting your loan payments and debit card usage to the credit bureaus. You can enroll in this feature for free and link your MoneyLion account to the app. The app will verify your payments and report them to the credit bureaus. You can also get a free credit score check and credit monitoring from the app.
Pros:
- No interest, fees, or credit check, only a small membership fee
- Fast and easy access to a personal loan
- No overdraft fees or late fees
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and eligibility
- Not available in all states or for all income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Dan works as a freelance writer for various online platforms. He earns $30 per hour and gets paid every week. He usually works 20 hours per week, but sometimes he has to work more or less depending on the demand. He uses MoneyLion to access a personal loan before payday. He links the app to his bank account and his income source. The app verifies his income and eligibility and approves him for a loan. He can borrow up to $250 with no interest, fees, or credit check.
One week, Dan has to buy a new laptop because his old one broke down. He doesn’t have enough money in his bank account to cover it. He decides to use MoneyLion to get a loan. He requests $250 from the app and receives it within minutes. He buys a new laptop and continues his work. He doesn’t have to pay any interest or late fees, but he pays a $19.99 monthly membership fee to use the app. On his next payday, the app deducts $250 from his paycheck and closes the transaction.
5. FlexWage
FlexWage is another popular and trusted cash advance app that lets you access your earned wages before payday. You can borrow up to 50% of your net pay or a maximum of $500, depending on your employer and income. You can receive the money within one to two business days for free or within minutes for a small fee. You don’t have to pay any interest, but you have to pay a flat fee per transaction, which varies by employer.
To use FlexWage, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You also need to work for an employer that partners with FlexWage. You can link the app to your bank account and your employer’s payroll system. The app will verify your income and hours and calculate how much you can borrow. You can request a cash advance anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
FlexWage also offers other features, such as:
- FlexPay: This feature allows you to get paid instantly for your tips and mileage reimbursements. You can link the app to your employer’s point-of-sale system and receive your tips and mileage payments directly to your bank account or your FlexWage debit card. You don’t have to wait for your paycheck or cash out your tips at the end of the day.
- Financial Wellness: This feature helps you improve your financial health by providing you with financial education, budgeting tools, and savings goals. You can access various courses, articles, and videos on topics such as debt management, credit building, and retirement planning. You can also create a personalized budget and track your expenses. You can also set savings goals and transfer money from your checking account to your savings account.
Pros:
- No interest, only a flat fee per transaction
- Fast and easy access to your earned wages
- No credit check or impact on your credit score
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and hours
- Not available for all employers or income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Eve works as a bartender at a local pub. She earns $10 per hour and gets paid every two weeks. She also earns tips and mileage reimbursements from her customers. She usually works 25 hours per week, but sometimes she has to work more or less depending on the demand. She uses FlexWage to access her earned wages before payday. She links the app to her bank account and her employer’s payroll system. The app verifies her income and hours and calculates how much she can borrow. She can borrow up to 50% of her net pay or a maximum of $500, depending on her employer and income.
One week, Eve has to pay a $200 utility bill that is due before her next paycheck. She doesn’t have enough money in her bank account to cover it. She decides to use FlexWage to get a cash advance. She requests $200 from the app and receives it within minutes for a $5 fee. She pays her bill and avoids late fees. She doesn’t have to pay any interest, but she pays a flat fee per transaction, which varies by employer. On her next payday, the app deducts $205 from her paycheck and closes the transaction.
6. PayActiv
PayActiv is another popular and trusted cash advance app that lets you access your earned wages before payday. You can borrow up to 50% of your earned income or a maximum of $500, depending on your employer and income. You can receive the money within one to two business days for free or within minutes for a small fee. You don’t have to pay any interest, but you have to pay a $5 biweekly membership fee to use the app.
To use PayActiv, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You also need to work for an employer that partners with PayActiv. You can link the app to your bank account and your employer’s payroll system. The app will verify your income and hours and calculate how much you can borrow. You can request a cash advance anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
PayActiv also offers other features, such as:
- Bill Pay: This feature allows you to pay your bills directly from the app without using your bank account or credit card. You can link your bills to the app and choose how much and when you want to pay them. You can also schedule recurring payments and get reminders and notifications.
- Savings and Budgeting: This feature helps you save money and manage your finances by providing you with financial education, budgeting tools, and savings goals. You can access various courses, articles, and videos on topics such as debt management, credit building, and retirement planning. You can also create a personalized budget and track your expenses. You can also set savings goals and transfer money from your checking account to your savings account.
- Financial Counseling: This feature helps you improve your financial health by providing you with free and confidential financial counseling from certified professionals. You can schedule a session with a counselor anytime you need it and get advice and guidance on topics such as debt consolidation, credit repair, and bankruptcy.
Pros:
- No interest, only a small membership fee
- Fast and easy access to your earned wages
- No credit check or impact on your credit score
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and hours
- Not available for all employers or income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Frank works as a cashier at a local supermarket. He earns $12 per hour and gets paid every two weeks. He usually works 35 hours per week, but sometimes he has to work more or less depending on the demand. He uses PayActiv to access his earned wages before payday. He links the app to his bank account and his employer’s payroll system. The app verifies his income and hours and calculates how much he can borrow. He can borrow up to 50% of his earned income or a maximum of $500, depending on his employer and income.
One week, Frank has to buy a birthday gift for his daughter that costs $100. He doesn’t have enough money in his bank account to cover it. He decides to use PayActiv to get a cash advance. He requests $100 from the app and receives it within minutes for a $3 fee. He buys the gift and makes his daughter happy. He doesn’t have to pay any interest, but he pays a $5 biweekly membership fee to use the app. On his next payday, the app deducts $103 from his paycheck and closes the transaction.
7. Chime
Chime is another popular and trusted cash advance app that lets you access your paycheck up to two days early. You can receive your direct deposits as soon as they are available, instead of waiting for your payday. You don’t have to pay any interest, fees, or credit check. You have to open a checking account and a debit card with Chime to use the app.
To use Chime, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You can link the app to your bank account and your income source. The app will notify you when your direct deposits are available and transfer them to your Chime account. You can access your money anytime you need it and use your Chime debit card to make purchases, withdraw cash, or pay bills.
Chime also offers other features, such as:
- Banking Services: This feature allows you to open a checking account and a debit card with Chime. You can use the debit card to access over 38,000 fee-free ATMs, get cash back rewards, and pay bills online. You can also get up to $200 in overdraft protection and up to 0.50% APY on your savings account.
- Savings Services: This feature helps you save money automatically by rounding up your transactions and transferring the change to your savings account. You can also set a percentage of your paycheck to be automatically transferred to your savings account. You can also earn bonus rewards for saving money and reaching your goals.
- Credit Builder Services: This feature helps you improve your credit score by reporting your debit card usage to the credit bureaus. You can enroll in this feature for free and link your Chime debit card to the app. The app will verify your transactions and report them to the credit bureaus. You can also get a free credit score check and credit monitoring from the app.
Pros:
- No interest, fees, or credit check, only a free checking account and debit card
- Fast and easy access to your paycheck up to two days early
- No overdraft fees or late fees
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- No borrowing limit, only depends on your paycheck amount
- Requires verification of your income and bank account
- Not available for all income sources or payment methods
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Greg works as a customer service representative for an online company. He earns $18 per hour and gets paid every two weeks. He usually works 40 hours per week, but sometimes he has to work more or less depending on the demand. He uses Chime to access his paycheck up to two days early. He links the app to his bank account and his income source. The app notifies him when his direct deposits are available and transfers them to his Chime account. He can access his money anytime he need it and use his Chime debit card to make purchases, withdraw cash, or pay bills.
One week, Greg has to buy a plane ticket to visit his family for Thanksgiving. He doesn’t have enough money in his bank account to cover it. He decides to use Chime to get his paycheck early. He receives his direct deposit of $1,440 ($18 x 40 x 2) on Wednesday, instead of Friday. He buys the plane ticket and books his flight. He doesn’t have to pay any interest or fees, but he opens a free checking account and debit card with Chime to use the app. He also uses the app’s features to save money, earn rewards, and build his credit.
8. Even
Even is another popular and trusted cash advance app that lets you access your earned wages before payday. You can borrow up to 50% of your net pay or a maximum of $500, depending on your employer and income. You can receive the money within one to two business days for free or within minutes for a small fee. You don’t have to pay any interest, but you have to pay a $6 monthly membership fee to use the app.
To use Even, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You also need to work for an employer that partners with Even. You can link the app to your bank account and your employer’s payroll system. The app will verify your income and hours and calculate how much you can borrow. You can request a cash advance anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
Even also offers other features, such as:
- Budgeting Tools: This feature helps you create a personalized budget and track your expenses. You can see how much money you have left until your next payday and how much you can spend on different categories. You can also set spending limits and get tips to save money.
- Savings Tools: This feature helps you save money automatically by setting aside a portion of your paycheck to your savings account. You can choose how much and how often you want to save and adjust it anytime. You can also set savings goals and track your progress.
- Financial Wellness: This feature helps you improve your financial health by providing you with financial education, coaching, and support. You can access various courses, articles, and videos on topics such as debt management, credit building, and retirement planning. You can also chat with a financial coach anytime you need it and get advice and guidance.
Pros:
- No interest, only a small membership fee
- Fast and easy access to your earned wages
- No credit check or impact on your credit score
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and hours
- Not available for all employers or income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Helen works as a nurse at a local hospital. She earns $22 per hour and gets paid every two weeks. She usually works 36 hours per week, but sometimes she has to work more or less depending on the demand. She uses Even to access her earned wages before payday. She links the app to her bank account and her employer’s payroll system. The app verifies her income and hours and calculates how much she can borrow. She can borrow up to 50% of her net pay or a maximum of $500, depending on her employer and income.
One week, Helen has to buy a new pair of glasses because her old one broke. She doesn’t have enough money in her bank account to cover it. She decides to use Even to get a cash advance. She requests $100 from the app and receives it within minutes for a $2.50 fee. She buys a new pair of glasses and sees better. She doesn’t have to pay any interest, but she pays a $6 monthly membership fee to use the app. On her next payday, the app deducts $102.50 from her paycheck and closes the transaction.
9. Empower
Empower is another popular and trusted cash advance app that offers you a line of credit to cover your expenses until your next payday. You can borrow up to $250 with no interest, fees, or credit check. You can receive the money within minutes or within one to two business days. You have to pay a $8 monthly membership fee to use the app.
To use Empower, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You can link the app to your bank account and your income source. The app will verify your income and eligibility and approve you for a line of credit. You can request a cash advance anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
Empower also offers other features, such as:
- Banking Services: This feature allows you to open a checking account and a debit card with Empower. You can use the debit card to access over 37,000 fee-free ATMs, get cash back rewards, and pay bills online. You can also get up to $250 in overdraft protection and up to 0.25% APY on your savings account.
- Budgeting Tools: This feature helps you create a personalized budget and track your expenses. You can see how much money you have left until your next payday and how much you can spend on different categories. You can also set spending limits and get tips to save money.
- Financial Coaching: This feature helps you improve your financial health by providing you with free and confidential financial coaching from certified professionals. You can chat with a coach anytime you need it and get advice and guidance on topics such as debt consolidation, credit repair, and budgeting.
Pros:
- No interest, fees, or credit check, only a small membership fee
- Fast and easy access to a line of credit
- No overdraft fees or late fees
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and eligibility
- Not available in all states or for all income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Ian works as a graphic designer for an online company. He earns $25 per hour and gets paid every month. He usually works 30 hours per week, but sometimes he has to work more or less depending on the demand. He uses Empower to access a line of credit before payday. He links the app to his bank account and his income source. The app verifies his income and eligibility and approves him for a line of credit. He can borrow up to $250 with no interest, fees, or credit check.
One month, Ian has to buy a new software license that costs $150. He doesn’t have enough money in his bank account to cover it. He decides to use Empower to get a cash advance. He requests $150 from the app and receives it within minutes. He buys the software license and continues his work. He doesn’t have to pay any interest or fees, but he pays a $8 monthly membership fee to use the app. On his next payday, the app deducts $150 from his paycheck and closes the transaction.
10. DailyPay
DailyPay is another popular and trusted cash advance app that lets you access your earned wages before payday. You can borrow up to 100% of your net pay or a maximum of $500, depending on your employer and income. You can receive the money within one to two business days for free or within minutes for a small fee. You don’t have to pay any interest, but you have to pay a flat fee per transaction, which varies by employer.
To use DailyPay, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You also need to work for an employer that partners with DailyPay. You can link the app to your bank account and your employer’s payroll system. The app will verify your income and hours and calculate how much you can borrow. You can request a cash advance anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
DailyPay also offers other features, such as:
- Savings Tools: This feature helps you save money automatically by setting aside a portion of your paycheck to your savings account. You can choose how much and how often you want to save and adjust it anytime. You can also set savings goals and track your progress.
- Financial Wellness: This feature helps you improve your financial health by providing you with financial education, coaching, and support. You can access various courses, articles, and videos on topics such as debt management, credit building, and retirement planning. You can also chat with a financial coach anytime you need it and get advice and guidance.
Pros:
- No interest, only a flat fee per transaction
- Fast and easy access to your earned wages
- No credit check or impact on your credit score
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and hours
- Not available for all employers or income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Jen works as a sales associate at a local store. She earns $15 per hour and gets paid every two weeks. She usually works 25 hours per week, but sometimes she has to work more or less depending on the demand. She uses DailyPay to access her earned wages before payday. She links the app to her bank account and her employer’s payroll system. The app verifies her income and hours and calculates how much she can borrow. She can borrow up to 100% of her net pay or a maximum of $500, depending on her employer and income.
One week, Jen has to buy a new dress for a wedding that costs $100. She doesn’t have enough money in her bank account to cover it. She decides to use DailyPay to get a cash advance. She requests $100 from the app and receives it within minutes for a $2.99 fee. She buys the dress and attends the wedding. She doesn’t have to pay any interest, but she pays a flat fee per transaction, which varies by employer. On her next payday, the app deducts $102.99 from her paycheck and closes the transaction.
11. Branch
Branch is another popular and trusted cash advance app that lets you access your earned wages before payday. You can borrow up to 50% of your net pay or a maximum of $500, depending on your employer and income. You can receive the money within one to three business days for free or within minutes for a small fee. You don’t have to pay any interest, but you have to pay a flat fee per transaction, which varies by employer.
To use Branch, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You also need to work for an employer that partners with Branch. You can link the app to your bank account and your employer’s payroll system. The app will verify your income and hours and calculate how much you can borrow. You can request a cash advance anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
Branch also offers other features, such as:
- Scheduling Tools: This feature helps you manage your work schedule and availability. You can view your shifts, swap shifts, pick up shifts, and request time off from the app. You can also communicate with your coworkers and managers and get updates and notifications.
- Budgeting Tools: This feature helps you create a personalized budget and track your expenses. You can see how much money you have left until your next payday and how much you can spend on different categories. You can also set spending limits and get tips to save money.
- Banking Services: This feature allows you to open a checking account and a debit card with Branch. You can use the debit card to access over 40,000 fee-free ATMs, get cash back rewards, and pay bills online. You can also get up to $100 in overdraft protection and up to 0.10% APY on your savings account.
Pros:
- No interest, only a flat fee per transaction
- Fast and easy access to your earned wages
- No credit check or impact on your credit score
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and hours
- Not available for all employers or income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Kyle works as a delivery driver for a food delivery app. He earns $20 per hour and gets paid every week. He usually works 30 hours per week, but sometimes he has to work more or less depending on the demand. He uses Branch to access his earned wages before payday. He links the app to his bank account and his employer’s payroll system. The app verifies his income and hours and calculates how much he can borrow. He can borrow up to 50% of his net pay or a maximum of $500, depending on his employer and income.
One week, Kyle has to buy a new tire for his car because his old one got punctured. He doesn’t have enough money in his bank account to cover it. He decides to use Branch to get a cash advance. He requests $100 from the app and receives it within minutes for a $3.99 fee. He buys a new tire and gets his car fixed. He doesn’t have to pay any interest, but he pays a flat fee per transaction, which varies by employer. On his next payday, the app deducts $103.99 from his paycheck and closes the transaction.
12. RainyDay
RainyDay is another popular and trusted cash advance app that offers you a personal loan to cover your expenses until your next payday. You can borrow up to $500 with no interest, fees, or credit check. You can receive the money within minutes or within one to two business days. You have to pay a $9.99 monthly membership fee to use the app.
To use RainyDay, you need to have a bank account, a steady income, and a smartphone. You can link the app to your bank account and your income source. The app will verify your income and eligibility and approve you for a loan. You can request a loan anytime you need it and repay it automatically on your payday.
RainyDay also offers other features, such as:
- Financial Education: This feature helps you improve your financial literacy by providing you with financial education, quizzes, and challenges. You can access various courses, articles, and videos on topics such as debt management, credit building, and budgeting. You can also test your knowledge and earn rewards for completing the quizzes and challenges.
- Savings Tools: This feature helps you save money automatically by setting aside a portion of your paycheck to your savings account. You can choose how much and how often you want to save and adjust it anytime. You can also set savings goals and track your progress.
- Emergency Fund: This feature helps you build an emergency fund by matching your savings contributions. You can choose how much and how often you want to save and adjust it anytime. You can also set a target amount and a deadline for your emergency fund. The app will match your savings contributions up to a certain limit and help you reach your goal faster.
Pros:
- No interest, fees, or credit check, only a small membership fee
- Fast and easy access to a personal loan
- No overdraft fees or late fees
- Multiple features to help you manage your finances
Cons:
- Low borrowing limit compared to other apps
- Requires verification of your income and eligibility
- Not available in all states or for all income sources
- May not work with some banks or prepaid cards
Example:
Lily works as a waitress at a local restaurant. She earns $15 per hour and gets paid every two weeks. She also earns tips and mileage reimbursements from her customers. She usually works 25 hours per week, but sometimes she has to work more or less depending on the demand. She uses RainyDay to access a personal loan before payday. She links the app to her bank account and her income source. The app verifies her income and eligibility and approves her for a loan. She can borrow up to $500 with no interest, fees, or credit check.
One week, Lily has to pay a $200 vet bill for her dog that got sick. She doesn’t have enough money in her bank account to cover it. She decides to use RainyDay to get a loan. She requests $200 from the app and receives it within minutes. She pays the vet and gets her dog treated. She doesn’t have to pay any interest or fees, but she pays a $9.99 monthly membership fee to use the app. On her next payday, the app deducts $200 from her paycheck and closes the transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cash Advance Apps to Borrow Money Till Payday
Here are some of the most common questions that people have about cash advance apps to Borrow Money Till Payday and their answers:
Are cash advance apps safe and legal?
Cash advance apps are generally safe and legal, as long as they comply with the state and federal laws and regulations that govern them. However, not all cash advance apps are created equal, and some may be more trustworthy and reputable than others. You should always do your research and read the app’s terms and conditions, privacy policy, and customer reviews before using a cash advance app. You should also check the app’s security features and encryption methods to ensure that your personal and financial information is protected.
How do cash advance apps affect your credit score?
Cash advance apps usually do not affect your credit score, as most of them do not perform a credit check or report your transactions to the credit bureaus. However, some cash advance apps may offer credit building features that can help you improve your credit score by reporting your payments and debit card usage to the credit bureaus. You should always check the app’s terms and conditions and credit reporting policies before using a cash advance app. You should also make sure that you repay your cash advance on time and in full to avoid any negative consequences.
How do cash advance apps make money?
Cash advance apps make money by charging fees, interest, or tips for their service. Some cash advance apps charge a flat fee per transaction, a percentage of the amount borrowed, or a monthly membership fee. Some cash advance apps charge no fees or interest, but ask for voluntary tips from the users. Some cash advance apps also make money by offering other features, such as banking services, investing services, or financial education, that may charge additional fees or commissions.
How do you choose the best cash advance app for you?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as different cash advance apps may suit different needs and preferences. However, some of the factors that you may want to consider when choosing a cash advance app are:
The borrowing limit: How much money can you borrow from the app and how often?
The fees and interest: How much does the app charge for its service and how does it compare to other alternatives?
The eligibility and verification: What are the requirements and criteria to use the app and how does the app verify your income and identity?
The speed and convenience: How fast and easy can you get the money from the app and how can you access and use it?
The features and benefits: What other features and benefits does the app offer and how can they help you manage your finances?
The customer service and support: How responsive and helpful is the app’s customer service and support team and how can you contact them?
The reputation and reviews: What are the ratings and reviews of the app from other users and experts and what are the pros and cons of the app?
You should compare and contrast different cash advance apps based on these factors and choose the one that best meets your needs and expectations.
Conclusion
Cash advance apps are mobile applications that allow you to borrow money from your future paycheck or income. They are designed to help you cover your expenses until your next payday and avoid overdraft fees, late fees, or payday loans. They are usually cheaper and more convenient than these alternatives, but they are not a long-term solution and should be used responsibly and sparingly.
In this article, we have reviewed 12 of the best cash advance apps that can help you borrow money until your next payday. We have compared their features, fees, eligibility, and pros and cons. We have also answered some frequently asked questions about cash advance apps and provided some tips on how to use them wisely.
We hope that this article has helped you find the best cash advance app for you and your situation. However, before you use any cash advance app, you should always do your research and read the app’s terms and conditions, privacy policy, and customer reviews. You should also check the app’s security features and encryption methods to ensure that your personal and financial information is protected.
By following these tips and guidelines, you can use cash advance apps safely and effectively and get the money you need when you need it. You can also avoid the pitfalls and problems that may come with using cash advance apps and maintain your financial well-being and peace of mind.