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A complete breakdown of all data points across the products in this comparison to help you make the right decision.
See how rates compare across all providers. The bars show the range between lowest and highest rates offered by each company.
Top RatedNeed $400 fast? You have more options than you might expect. Cash advance apps can deliver funds in minutes with zero interest. Credit union payday alternative loans cap rates at 28% APR. Online personal loans offer fixed monthly payments if you qualify.
The right choice comes down to your timeline, credit profile, and what the loan will cost you. Here's a breakdown of each option and what it actually costs.
Cash advance apps are the fastest, cheapest option for most people needing $400. They link to your bank account and advance money against your next paycheck with no interest.
If you have a credit card with available credit, you can withdraw $400 from an ATM immediately. No application needed. Most cards charge 24% to 29% APR on cash advances plus a 3% to 5% fee, and interest starts accruing from day one.
Federal credit unions offer PALs as a regulated, low-cost alternative to payday loans. Two types are available:
Both cap the application fee at $20 and report to credit bureaus, helping you build credit history.
Online lenders offer personal loans with fixed rates and repayment schedules. Most set a minimum of $1,000 to $2,000, so you'd borrow the minimum and repay what you don't need. Prequalification uses a soft credit pull and won't affect your score.
The cost of a $400 loan varies widely by type. A cash advance app can cost nothing. A payday loan can cost $60 for the same amount. Here's how the main options compare over a 14-day term:
| Loan Type | APR | Fees | Total Repayment | Cost of Borrowing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash Advance App | 0% (tip-based) | $0-$14 | $400-$414 | $0-$14 |
| Credit Card Cash Advance | 24% | $20 | $423.69 | $23.69 |
| Payday Alternative Loan | 28% | $0 | $404.35 | $4.35 |
| Personal Loan | 10% | $20 (origination) | $421.07 | $21.07 |
| Payday Loan | 400% | $60 | $460 | $60 |
Requirements vary by lender and loan type. Most $400 loan options ask for:
A loan isn't always the fastest or cheapest way to cover a $400 shortfall. Consider these alternatives first:
Negotiate with Creditors: If you're facing a bill you can't pay, try negotiating with the creditor. Many are willing to set up payment plans or reduce the amount owed.
Sell Unused Items: Look around your home. That old smartphone or rarely-used gadget could be your ticket to $400.
Pick Up a Side Gig: In today's gig economy, you could earn $400 through ride-sharing, food delivery, or online freelancing faster than you might think.
Ask for a Paycheck Advance: Some employers are willing to provide a paycheck advance, especially for small amounts like $400.
Seek Community Assistance: Local charities, religious organizations, or community centers sometimes offer small grants or interest-free loans for people in need.
Use Buy Now, Pay Later Services: If you're making a purchase, services like Afterpay or Klarna allow you to split the cost into installments, often interest-free if paid on time.
Trim Your Budget: Look for areas where you can cut back temporarily. Skipping a few takeout meals or pausing subscriptions could add up quickly.
The impact of a $400 loan on your credit score depends on the type of loan and how you manage it:
Cash Advance Apps: Generally don't affect your credit score.
Credit Card Cash Advances: Can indirectly impact your credit by increasing your credit utilization ratio.
Payday Alternative Loans: Usually report to credit bureaus, helping build credit if paid on time.
Personal Loans: Typically report to credit bureaus. On-time payments can boost your score, while missed payments can harm it.
Payday Loans: Usually don't affect your credit unless you default.
What credit score is required for a $400 loan?
Many lenders approve $400 loans with credit scores of 580 or higher, though requirements vary. Cash advance apps like Earnin and Dave skip the credit check entirely. If you have bad credit, look for lenders that specialize in bad credit loans or consider a payday alternative loan (PAL) from a credit union, which has more flexible approval criteria.
How much will a $400 loan cost?The cost depends on the loan type. Cash advance apps can be free or cost a small subscription fee ($5 to $10 per month). A credit union PAL at 28% APR over 6 months costs roughly $33 in interest. A credit card cash advance at 24% APR for 14 days adds about $3.69 in interest plus fees. Payday loans are the most expensive, often charging $15 per $100 borrowed, which adds up to $60 on a $400 loan.
Can I get a $400 loan with no credit check?Yes. Cash advance apps like Earnin, Dave, and Brigit don't run credit checks. They base your eligibility on your income and bank account activity instead. Some payday lenders also skip traditional credit checks, but these loans carry much higher costs. Credit unions offering PAL II loans may also be more flexible with credit requirements.
What can I use a $400 loan for?A $400 loan can cover almost any short-term expense. Common uses include car repairs, medical bills, utility payments, rent shortfalls, and unexpected travel costs. Most lenders don't restrict how you spend the funds, though it's best to borrow only what you need and have a clear repayment plan.
How can I borrow $400 instantly?The fastest way to get $400 is through a cash advance app. Earnin, Dave, and Brigit can deliver funds to your bank account in minutes with an express transfer fee, or within 1 to 3 business days for free. If you have a credit card with available credit, an ATM cash advance gives you immediate access to cash, though interest starts accruing right away.
Can I borrow $400 from Cash App?Cash App offers a Borrow feature that lets eligible users borrow between $20 and $200 (up to $500 for some users). Not everyone qualifies, and limits are based on your account activity and direct deposit history. If your Cash App limit is below $400, you may need to combine it with another source or use a different option like Earnin or Dave.
Will a $400 loan affect my credit score?It depends on the lender. Cash advance apps don't report to credit bureaus, so they won't affect your score either way. Personal loans and PALs from credit unions typically do report to bureaus. On-time payments can boost your score, while missed payments can lower it. Credit card cash advances affect your credit utilization ratio, which can temporarily reduce your score.
What app will give me $400?Possible Finance offers a credit limit of $400 or $800. Brigit provides advances up to $500, and Dave's ExtraCash goes up to $500 (though most users qualify for less initially). Earnin maxes out at $150 per day but allows up to $1,000 per pay period. Your actual limit depends on your income and account history with each app.
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