8 Best Apps Like Earnin: Top Alternatives for Cash Advances

Cash advance apps like Earnin are becoming popular for handling surprise costs that come up before payday. They provide an easy way to get money fast, skipping the usual loan steps.

Earnin is known for being easy to use and having clear fees and no interest. It’s a good choice for people who need money quickly, offering up to $500 per pay period.

However, while Earnin is a great option, it’s not the only cash advance app. There are various other apps available that offer similar services, each with their own set of features and benefits to consider.

8 Best Cash Advance Apps Like Earnin

Rating Criteria

When we rate these cash advance apps, we mainly look at three important things:

1. How easy and quick it is to get the advance
2. The fees that come with it
3. What users say about their experience

With these in mind, we’ve put together a list of different apps to help you choose one that fits your financial needs and what you’re looking for.

1. Dave

Apple Store Rating: 4.8

Dave stands out as the top cash advance app, offering no-interest, no-fee cash advances up to $500 through its ExtraCash feature, even for users with less-than-perfect credit.

Its speed in becoming verified and providing funds is a highlight, with options for standard transfers (1-3 business days) or express transfers (minutes to hours) for a small fee.

What sets Dave apart is its collaboration with LevelCredit, allowing users to build credit scores by reporting rent payments to credit bureaus – a feature not common in similar apps. Additionally, Dave helps prevent overdraft fees with timely balance alerts and offers valuable tools for budgeting and savings goals.

Despite its modest $1 monthly fee, Dave’s comprehensive services provide exceptional value, securing its top recommendation status.

Pros:

• Comparatively higher advance limit of $500
• Zero late fees, easing financial pressure.
• Useful in finding additional employment opportunities.
• Personalized budgeting tool, enhancing financial planning.

Cons:

• Access to these features comes with a minimal $1 monthly subscription fee.
• Standard transfers require up to 3 business days.
• Express transfers, though faster, cost between $2.49 and $5.99.

2. FloatMe

FloatMe, a notable competitor to Earnin, offers a convenient cash advance feature. Users can quickly access up to $50 of their earned wages for a low monthly fee of $1.99, with no interest or additional costs.

Though affordable and user-friendly, FloatMe’s $50 limit may be restrictive for some, and it doesn’t aid in credit score improvement. This is a key consideration when comparing it with other apps like Earnin for immediate financial needs.

Read More: 7 Best $100 Loan Instant Apps

User Reviews

Apple Store Rating: 4.8

FloatMe has received considerable positive feedback for its straightforward and effective approach. However, it’s important to note that FloatMe offers the smallest cash advance amount compared to others in its category.

Additionally, a significant number of reviews point out eligibility concerns, with some users only able to obtain a $20 advance instead of the advertised $50.

Pros:

• No credit check required for cash advances.
• No interest or tips necessary.
• Provides overdraft alerts and automatic savings features.
• Affordable membership at $1.99 per month.
• Easy and swift application process.

Cons:

• Maximum advance capped at $50, with some users only able to access $20.
• No flexibility in extending due dates.
• Using FloatMe does not contribute to credit score improvement.
• Absence of direct contact information on the website.

3. Empower Cash Advance

Empower is a notable fintech app offering a range of features like quick cash advances up to $250, budgeting tools, and credit score tracking. Users can get cash instantly without interest, late fees, or credit checks.

The app is especially strong because it offers a complete set of financial tools. It helps users track their spending, set money goals, and watch their credit score. Plus, Empower gives personalized tips for managing finances better.

User Reviews and Feedback

Apple Store Rating: 4.8

Empower has received largely positive reviews. The few negative comments did not follow a consistent pattern.

A user experienced with multiple cash advance apps noted, “Empower often varies the advance amounts significantly, offering as much as $250 or as low as $100, based on factors like account balance. This variability is more pronounced compared to other apps, where changes in advance amounts are less drastic.”

Pros:

• No charges or interest on cash advances.
• Flexible eligibility criteria, not requiring a credit check.
• Reports payments to credit bureaus, aiding in building credit history.
• Simple and intuitive application interface.
• In-app customizable budgeting tools.
• Features for automatic savings setup.

Cons:

• Maximum cash advance is limited to $250.
• Noticeable variation in permissible advance amounts for recurring users.
• Monthly subscription fee set at $8.
• Necessitates the use of an Empower Card for instant, free cash advance access.
• Does not offer a mobile check deposit feature.
• Restricted access to ATMs within its network.

4. MoneyLion

MoneyLion, a comprehensive mobile banking app, offers cash advance services similar to the Earnin app, with the added benefit of early wage access for its users. This feature is particularly useful for dealing with unexpected expenses or income shortfalls.

Beyond cash advances, MoneyLion brings a variety of financial management tools to the table, including options for savings and investments, enhancing overall financial wellness.

User Reviews

Apple App Store Rating: 4.7

Despite the high average rating, the feedback on MoneyLion’s cash advance feature is mixed:

• Users appreciate the ease of obtaining advances and the app’s user-friendly interface.
• However, concerns include issues with eligibility, deceptive tip prompts, and problems with account verification.
• Some users experienced technical glitches and poor customer service, leading to frustration.
• The app’s fees and tip requests are criticized for lack of transparency.
• Despite these issues, many users find the app helpful for quick cash needs.

Pros:

• Early paycheck access, allowing users to receive their pay up to two days in advance.
• No overdraft fees.
• Free from interest, monthly fees, and credit checks.
• Initial cash advances up to $500, potentially increasing to $1,000 for RoarMoney account holders with direct deposits.

Cons:

• A high Turbo delivery fee, reaching up to $8.99 for transfers of $90 – $100 to an external bank.
• Time-consuming process to qualify for larger loan amounts.
• Inaccessibility for individuals with irregular income patterns.
• Delayed delivery of payday advance funds, taking 2-5 days for non-Instacash users or when transferring to an external account.
• Cash advance increments limited to $100, necessitating multiple requests for larger sums, especially when using Turbo Delivery.

5. Brigit

Brigit provides cash advances up to $250. Known for its no-interest and no-late-fee policy, Brigit appeals to those seeking immediate funds without hidden charges.

It’s important to note that access to cash advance features comes with a monthly subscription fee of $9.99.

User Rating and Feedback

Apple App Store Rating: 4.8

Users generally praise Brigit, particularly for its role in aiding them during tight financial periods.

However, the $9.99 monthly fee is a common point of criticism in negative reviews. Users have highlighted Brigit’s swift verification and varied fund delivery options as positives. One user, familiar with several similar services, noted that Brigit’s weekly advance limit in relation to income is lower compared to other apps.

Pros:

• Cash advance amount not linked to hours worked.
• Provides tools for financial education.
• Alerts users about low bank balances to prevent overdrafts.

Cons:

• Maximum advance limited to $250.
• Higher income required for the full $250 advance compared to other apps.
• Access to cash advances requires the Plus plan at $9.99/month.

6. Klover

Klover is a user-friendly cash advance app that offers a quick and efficient solution for short-term financial needs. It provides up to $200 in cash advances without the need for credit checks, interest, or additional fees.

The app’s unique points system allows users to earn rewards for various activities, which can be used to increase cash advance limits or enter into daily cash prize drawings.

Fee’s

User Reviews and Feedback:

Apple App Store Rating: 4.7

Klover receives high marks for its efficiency and user-friendly design. Users often express appreciation for the app’s ability to provide quick funds with a 30-day repayment window.

Pros:

• No mandatory fees for services.
• No credit check for advance approvals.
• Free access to cash advances without a membership fee.
• Opportunity to earn points in-app to increase advance amounts.
• Strong emphasis on security and clear privacy policies.

Cons:

• Limited to a $200 advance.
• A three-day wait for advance funds to be deposited.
• No flexibility in extending the repayment deadline.
• Substantial fee for same-day funding, reaching up to $12.29 for amounts over $75.

7. Albert

Albert provides up to $250 in cash advances, joining the ranks of popular apps like Brigit and Earnin. Known for its no-interest and no-late-fee approach, Albert is a go-to for quick access to earnings.

Additionally, it offers an automated savings feature that adjusts to your income, spending habits, and bills, aiding in better financial management.

The app is designed to assist users in bridging the gap between paydays.

Eligibility for Cash Advance

To be eligible for Albert’s cash advance, users need to meet the following requirements:

• Have an active checking account for at least 60 days.
• Show consistent direct deposits into this account.
• Provide proof of a steady income from the same employer for the last 60 days.
• Keep a positive account balance after payday.

User Ratings and Feedback

Apple App Store Rating: 4.6

Albert has garnered positive feedback for its easy-to-use interface and effective financial tools. Customer service concerns are notably minimal among user reviews.

Pros:

• No credit check necessary.
• Paycheck access up to two days early with direct deposit setup.
• Cash-back rewards on everyday purchases with an Albert debit card and Genius subscription.
• Provides a 10-day window for repayment.
• Turnaround time of 2 to 3 business days.

Cons:

• Requires a $14.99/month Genius subscription, higher than most competitors.
• Instant transfer incurs a $6.99 fee.
• Eligibility for cash advances may take time.
• Essential to have the smart money feature active.

8. Vola

Vola, another cash advance app similar to Earnin, offers users up to $300 in instant funds, aiming to serve as a financial cushion between paychecks. However, recent user experiences paint a less favorable picture.

Customer Reviews and Feedback:

Apple App Store Rating: 4.5

Recent 3-Month Trend: 1.5

Although Vola maintains an overall rating of 4.5 on the App Store, its performance in the last three months has been notably poor, with an average rating of just 1.5 out of 5.

A recurrent theme in these reviews is the incompatibility with banks that are allegedly supported, coupled with widespread dissatisfaction regarding customer service.

Pros:

• Funds available on the same business day.
• Accessible for those with poor credit, as no credit check is required.
• Free from overdraft, prepayment, late fees, and other hidden charges.
• Cash advance amount is not linked to hours worked.
• Offers financial education tools.
• Alerts for low bank account balances.

Cons:

• Incompatibility with many major banks.
• Monthly fees vary, potentially as high as $28.99.
• Relatively low maximum advance limit of $300.
• Requires bank account login to view membership details and costs.
• Necessitates maintaining an average bank balance of over $150.
• Numerous reports of poor customer service experiences.

Comparing Apps to Earnin – Features and User Experience

In the realm of cash advance apps, it’s crucial to compare each app’s unique features and overall user experience with Earnin.

Feature Comparison with Earnin:

• Advance Limits and Eligibility: Apps like Dave and MoneyLion offer higher advance limits than Earnin, but with varying eligibility criteria. For instance, Dave provides up to $500 but requires a minimal monthly fee, whereas MoneyLion allows advances up to $1,000 for account holders with direct deposits.
• Credit Building: Some apps, like Dave, stand out by offering credit-building features, a significant advantage for users looking to improve their credit scores.
• Speed of Funding: The speed at which users can access funds varies significantly. While apps like Empower and Klover offer quick funding, others may take several business days for standard transfers.
• Fees and Charges: Most apps maintain a no-interest policy, similar to Earnin. However, fees for express transfers and monthly subscriptions differ. For example, Brigit charges a $9.99 monthly fee, whereas FloatMe is more affordable at $1.99 per month.
• Additional Features: Many of these apps provide extra financial tools, like budgeting and savings features, which are not directly offered by Earnin. MoneyLion, for instance, includes investment options, enhancing overall financial wellness.

User Experience Comparison:

• Ease of Use: User reviews often highlight the ease of app navigation and simplicity in obtaining advances. Apps like Dave and Albert are frequently praised for their user-friendly interfaces.
• Customer Support: The level of customer support varies, with some apps receiving criticism for inadequate assistance. Albert, however, has minimal complaints regarding customer service.
• Reliability and Trustworthiness: Consistent positive feedback, like that for Dave and Empower, indicates a higher level of reliability and user trust. On the other hand, recent negative trends, as seen with Vola, raise concerns about reliability.
• User Community and Support: Some apps, such as Brigit, have built a strong user community, offering additional support and resources, which enhances the overall user experience beyond just financial transactions.

Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Choice

When selecting a cash advance app, it’s essential to consider not only the immediate financial relief it offers but also its long-term impact on your financial health. Apps that provide credit-building features, budgeting tools, and financial education resources can be particularly beneficial in this regard.

Always be mindful of the fees associated with these services. While they might seem minimal, they can add up over time. Choosing an app that aligns with your financial habits and goals can help you manage your finances more effectively and avoid potential pitfalls.