Payday loans are no stranger to nearly half of all Americans who live paycheck to paycheck. Yet, there is a quicker way to get the money.
Being in need of money is very unpleasant indeed. And we’re well aware that sticking to a budget is a tough gig. But, when there’s an app that gives you cash, money management becomes easy.
- How many times in your life have you faced desperate money need ?
In an ideal world, everyone has an emergency fund to deal with unexpected expenses. But the reality makes us believe the contrary. One day, you may need cash to cover utility bills, car repair, or anything else. And in times when even good financial habits are not enough to save you from a significant expense, get these apps for extra help without taking a side hustle.
What is the best get paid now app, you may ask. And millions will answer “It depends”;
Thus, if you are ready to find the best app to get paid early, make yourself a coffee and learn all the bells and whistles of the below-mentioned paycheck apps.
But before thinking on your feet, make sure you know your reason for getting one. And remember that there is hardly a great loan that wouldn’t ask for something in return. In this case, it’s all about money and the interest rate you’ll face.
All in all, no matter what app you’ll end up with, you’re the one who is responsible for your choice. So, if you’re going to get a cash advance, think twice.
More Than 10 Best Cash Advance Apps Like Earnin, Brigit, and Moneylion in 2023
The following is a list of the best mobile banking apps that offer cash and bridge the financial gap. Account users can receive cash fast without harsh credit checks.
Find what app suits you best and use it only when you’re strapped for cash. These options can save you from serious financial troubles, so do research before getting your fingers wet.
PaydaySay – Payday Advance Loan App
This lending app is a tool that can help you get connected with one of the trusted loan lenders. Install it once on your phone and get ready to solve your short-term financial difficulties in just a few clicks.
The app has a safe loan application available 24/7 and gives you access to a pool of lenders, thus making it possible to qualify for a small loan fast and even with bad credit.
The app is not a direct lender but a loan-connecting service that matches the account holders with the lending institutions that review and decide on the consumers’ loan requests within a few business days.
It means that borrowers have multiple loan options to get extra money. When it comes to finding a reliable way to take a short-term loan, this one will definitely come in handy. It is easy, quick, and can help you solve your small money problems in minutes.
If you need some cash to make ends meet until the next paycheck or there is an urgent bill you should pay asap, this is one of the best ways to borrow loan amounts ranging from $100 up to $1000.
It’s great to have a financial assistant in your pocket, right? Still, take advantage of the apps wisely and take even a small loan seriously not to get into deep debt.
B9 – Banking App
The B9 app-based offering provides excellent flexibility to people navigating the demands of day-to-day life, with ZERO FEE advances of up to $500, a Visa debit card with up to 5% cashback, and money transfer services. Plus, setting up your B9 Account is easy – just download the app, set up your payroll direct deposit, and wait until your funds are credited.
With the Basic Plan, you get a B9 Visa Debit Card with
- up to 5% cashback;
- no-fee instant B9 advances (up to $100);
- no-fee ACH transfers;
- no-fee instant transfers to B9 Members.
Upgrade to the Premium Plan for $19.99 per month and get all the features of the Basic Plan plus
- a B9 Advance of up to $500;
- credit report;
- credit score;
- credit score simulator.
To qualify for a B9 pay advance, you must have income (fulltime, part-time, contract, GIG, freelance platforms, etc), a Social Security number or Individual Tax Identification Number, a US residential mailing address, and a government-issued photo ID.
Pros: With up to 4% cashback and the B9 Advance feature, B9 offers hardworking Americans and working migrants a convenient and flexible way to manage their earnings. Plus, the app is easy to use and the requirements for a B9 pay advance are straightforward.
Cons: While the Basic Plan offers some great features, the premium plan may be a bit pricey for some users. Additionally, as with any financial service, it’s important to be aware of potential fees and interest rates when using the B9 Advance feature.
In summary, B9 is a great banking app for anyone looking for a way to better manage their finances and get access to their earnings earlier. With a range of features and easy setup, it’s definitely worth considering.
Earnin – Advance App for Hourly Paid Workers
Formerly known as ActiveHours, Earnin works differently from other apps. It allows you to access the money you’ve already earned but haven’t been paid for.
The app has extra features like the Balance Shield Alert, which notifies users when their account balance is low. The great thing about the Balance Shield Alert is the fact that Earnin actually sends an amount directly to your account to avoid overdraft fees when the balance goes below the advance amount previously specified.
- Loan amount: $100 to $500
- APR: 9.95% up to 35.99%
- Minimum Credit Score: No minimum required
- No credit history necessary: only a bank account is needed
- BBB Rating: A-
- Fees: There are no mandatory fees needed to use the app or checking account
Pros:
- No small-dollar loans fee or interest rates that allow you to manage your money better
- App sends alerts when the balance is low
- Early access to paycheck
- Great for employees with electronic timesheets and specific work location
- Optional tip donation, capped at only $14
- Balance Shield Alert to notify against overdraft fees
- Health Aid feature offers assistance on medical bills.
Cons:
- Withdrawal limits are low
- Timesheet required as proof of employment
- Without a timesheet, a geographic location of the workplace is needed
- Balance Shield Alert can only protect your account once for free
- Recurring Balance Shield requires a certain fee of around $1.50
In other words, you use your next paycheck as collateral to get money “lightning-fast”, which means the same day.
Before you go for the Earnin app, consider that there are specific limits and rules. Unlike other lenders, apps like Earnin offer fee-free cash solutions. The app doesn’t charge interest or monthly membership fees, which seems like a great reason to use Earnin.
Instead, the company encourages you to “tip” for using their services.
And when you do, it increases your chances to get a max payout every paycheck. Just because they are not employer-sponsored, apps similar to Earnin don’t have customer service.
Thus, you can cash out $100 per pay period and increase it up to $ 500 in time. The longer you use the app, the higher the amount. The money lending app is easy to use, and it helps you avoid being late on bills or payments. Also, Earnin is a great advance app that helps you avoid taking out an expensive loan.
If, for some reason, this app is not an option for you, consider using Earnin alternatives.
Dave
The Dave app helps you change your status when strapped for cash. It is an innovative AI-based platform that works directly with your checking account.
Once your funds are low, you get an alert, and you’re able to get as many cash boosts as necessary. Even though the loan amount starts from $75, apps like Dave come with great terms and excellent reputations. As proof, since their startup in 2016, Mark Cuban’s Dave has helped over 3 million of its members avoid overdrafts.
- Struggle with automatic payments for things like Netflix or insurance?
That’s where the friendly app can help. The good news is there are no checks on credit. For quick approval, you need to have 60 days’ worth of payment history.
- Loan amount: Advance app users with a Dave spending account can borrow from $5 to $200, while users without it can borrow up to $100.
- APR: Annual percentage rate is lower compared to loans or credit cards, which only comes out to around 260%
- Minimum Credit Score: There is no minimum score required in order to use the Dave app.
- BBB Rating: Dave app has a BBB rating of B
- Fees: Instead of interest rates. Dave only requests donations in tips.
Pros:
- No interest fee advance and only a monthly membership fee of $1
- No hit on your credit file. Only a bank account is necessary to apply
- There are budgeting app features and even part-time job hunting features
- Credit building is possible if repayments are paid on time
- Tips are optional, but a portion of it goes to Feeding America, a nonprofit organization
- Funding within 8 hours with payment of an express fee
Cons:
- Ongoing monthly membership fee of $1 regardless of advance app usage
- If payment is late, Dave may automatically deduct advances
- Maximum loanable amount is limited to $250
- Requires a bank account which does not apply to most income earners.
It’s hard to find a reason not to give Dave a try. Unless you think 200 thousand reviews isn’t enough proof. For $1/month, the highest cash advance apps like Dave allow you to budget your upcoming expenses.
In fact, it’s one of the best overdraft protection apps that save you a bundle. Yet, one thing all best apps similar to Dave lack is customer support.
What are the other apps similar to Dave? Let’s learn, not guess.
MoneyLion – App with Membership
When it comes to the best payday apps, the MoneyLion checking account has a lot to offer, including two different membership options. It’s an all-around professional app that goes far beyond Earnin. This financial app provides loans from $25 to $250 and gives you the opportunity to earn cash back.
It means that it offers not only no-fee checking accounts and 0% APR advances but also credit building and monitoring loans of up to $500. The letter starts at 5.99% APR, in fact, and such membership will cost you 19.99 per month.
To begin with a free membership, you can open a bank account through MoneyLion service and get your paycheck access at no interest. This option is a perfect match for borrowers with less than stellar credit, in fact.
By using this app, you can also earn cashback rewards and gift cards, which is a nice extra. It’s hard to find an advance app that gives cash back on purchases, so this is a major plus.
With the MoneyLion Plus membership, you have to pay $29/month and get the opportunity to take a credit-builder loan for up to $500 with lightning speed. In addition, it matches your employer’s paycheck and allows you to get money before you’re paid by your employer. You get $1 cashback in your account for every day you log into.
- Loan amount: $25 up to $250
- APR: 156%
- Minimum Credit Rating: None required
- BBB Rating: C+
- Fees: $1 per month or $19.99 (MoneyLion Core)
Pros:
- Many products offered with varying fees for banking services offered
- Loans that allow borrowers to build credit
- Crypto Trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum
- Credit Monitoring feature for members of Credit Builder Plus ($19.99 monthly)
- Overdraft protection
- Early paycheck feature
- It also offers banking accounts for $0 minimum deposit
- Members have access to over 55,000 ATMs without fees
- Earn rewards with Loyalty Program
Cons:
- Monthly rates regardless of usage
- Credit-Builder loans are high upon late or non-payment
- Out-of-Network ATM Fee of around $2.50
- Must have an active checking account with positive balance
- Funds will take up to 5 days to be credited for free service
MoneyLion is a great choice for those who want to improve their financial life or cover an emergency expense. Also, this fast cash app provides its customers with advice on how to monitor and control their financial health.
All in all, 4 million satisfied members can’t get it wrong. The best way to use MoneyLion core features is to borrow when you need a quick buck and make early payments to pay it off. This way, you’ll get no prepayment fees and can avoid paying a mountain of interest.
Brigit – Best Loans App for Fast Funding
Brigit works best for saving on overdraft fees. For a monthly membership fee of $9.99/month, you can get up to $250 per paycheck with no interest payments.
There is one thing you should know before going for Brigit:
It uses an algorithm to forecast the balance in your account at the end of the month, which simply makes Brigit a cut above the other apps that loan you money. It predicts when you will run out of cash before the next paycheck.
If that’s your case, you’ll get up to $250, which you repay once you get paid. Since this get-paid-early app is based on a subscription model, you never pay interest in late fees on the loan up to $250. Thus, once you repay your loan, you get access to it again and again.
Unlike other AI-based platforms on this list, Brigit comes with a responsive customer service team.
You just need to connect your timecard and your checking account and get ready to access the money instantly. Though Brigit is one of the best overdraft apps available to everybody, it isn’t necessarily the best choice.
Ideal for people with low credit, Brigit is much less expensive than an overdraft fee (could be up to $40 depending on the bank). As such, if you face some financial troubles from time to time, Brigit is a decent option.
Varo (Paycheck Advance App)
Varo was founded back in 2015 as a mobile application that offers mobile savings and checking accounts. Varo Advance is a program for customers who have a Varo Bank Account that is at least 30 days old.
This account should at least have around $1,000 in deposits to qualify for immediate cash up to $100 only. Varo Advance doesn’t have interest charges to borrow money as long as the advance is paid within 30 days.
This platform says it protects your online banking information with special encryption. It makes Varo bank services reliable and secure.
Checking account users are also limited to just one outstanding advance at a time.
- Loan amount: $20 up to $100 only
- APR: depends on loaned amount
- Minimum Credit Score: Average of 600-750
- BBB Rating: A+
- Fees: Fees depend on the loan amount
Pros:
- No monthly charges
- No overdraft fees
- Users have access to over 55,000 ATMs without fees
- High rate for savings
- All mobile experience and perfect for tech-savvy clients
Cons:
- Cash deposits have fees because of third-party charges
- Varo has a mobile checking account but does not provide paper checks
Chime (Overdraft Protection)
Chime is not just a mobile company because it also offers savings as well as checking accounts. Chime is the app best known for its overdraft protection and credit builder loans.
SpotMe is Chime’s feature for overdraft protection and allows users to go negative even up to the approved cash amount.
Chime spending account is only open for US citizens to get money, at least 18 years of age with a valid US address. This app is best to avoid overdraft fees and receive money via a direct deposit within 2 days.
- Loan amount: $20 up to $200 depending on the activity in the account
- APR: 104.3%
- Minimum Credit Rating: None required
- BBB Rating: Not accredited
- Fees: No fees but have optional tips
Pros:
- Access to over 60,000 ATMs without fees
- SpotMe overdraft protection
- Daily notifications for balances are sent instantly
- Deposits can be received two days before your employer pays you
- No monthly fee required
- Users can build and jumpstart credit standing
Cons:
- $2.50 for out of network ATMs
- Chime is all digital and does not have a physical bank to visit
- There is no support available 24/7
CashNetUSA (No Credit Check)
The best thing about CashNetUSA is that they do not require a strong credit history to take out a loan. However, despite its name, this is only available in 29 states and fees vary depending on location.
The type of loan or the amount of cash you may get approved for will also depend on the state you are located in.
- Loan amount: $100 up to $600
- APR: up to over 1000% in other locations like Rhode Island, Nevada, Michigan, etc.
- Minimum Credit Score: None required
- BBB Rating: None
- Fees: Depends on location
Pros:
- Users may qualify even without credit standing
- Easy application
- Has 24/7 customer service
Cons:
- Relatively high-interest rates
- Fees vary on location
- Not readily available in all states
Sofi (Quick Cash)
Sofi offers unique perks like Money Vaults, a savings account that can help users put up savings goals. It is a fintech company that has banking options, investment accounts and offers loans.
It should be noted, however, that there are no physical locations because transactions are done purely on mobile.
Member perks include access to exclusive events, discounts, career coaching, and free financial coaching. Sofi checking account does not offer a stand-alone checking or stand-alone savings account. Sofi offers a combined savings and checking account. However, it charges a small overdraft coverage.
- Loan amount: Up to $50
- APR: up to 25.24%
- Minimum Credit Rating: None required
- BBB Rating: A+
- Fees: No monthly service fee or hidden fees
Pros:
- Overdraft coverage up to $50
- High-interest loans rate
- No opening deposit minimum
- No monthly fees to be paid
- Paycheck arrives early and can be received as fast as 2 days
- No fees for out of network ATM withdrawals
- Free access to over 50,000 ATMs
- Create multiple Money Vaults (up to 20)
- Combined savings and checking account
Cons:
- Available online only
- Limited customer support from 5 am to 7 pm Monday to Thursday or 5 am to 5 pm Friday to Sunday
- Limited overdraft coverage
Empower (No Credit Score)
Empower believes that everyone should be included when it comes to good credit. Users can easily transfer money and earn cash back even with bad credit. A healthy financial past dictates what a person can get on finance like a car, insurance, rent for an apartment, and even a job.
Empower can health jumpstart a user’s credit standing. Empower has various products that help users start with a $200 credit line.
Empower Cash technology company does not require a credit check but requires a checking account history. An advance of around $250 can be received without fees.
Empower debit cards can be used anywhere and works with Samsung Pay, Google Play, and Apple Pay for convenience. The app also has an Autosave feature that allows users to set up a weekly goal for savings in order to build funds for emergencies.
- Loan amount: up to $250
- APR: 35.99%
- Minimum Credit Score: None required
- BBB Rating: D rating
- Fees: $8 per month after the 14-day trial period of two weeks
Pros:
- Earn cashback up to around 10% on spendings
- No fees for more than 37,000 ATMs
- Empower card for advances
Cons:
- Expensive subscription fee after trial period
- No cash and deposits for mobile checks
- Platform is mobile only (for now)
Klover (Instant Cash From Your Phone)
Klover is a fintech app available in both the App Store and Google Play that give you cash within two days without charging fees for basic services. However, additional features can be charged up to $2.49.
It is perfect for users with regular paychecks in need of a small advance to get through until their salary comes. A checking account with at least a $250 minimum deposit and regular bi-weekly or weekly activity is required.
Funds may be available within 3 business days if registration is free but if the user opts to pay 1 fee per month between $1.99 and $14.99, depending on the registration option chosen, funds may be available within the same day.
- Loan amount: up to $100
- APR: capped at 28%
- Minimum Credit Rating: None required
- BBB Rating: Not accredited
- Fees: No fees for loan crediting within 2-3 days but charges $2.49 for same day turnaround time
Pros:
- Users can increase the amount to be advanced from paycheck
- Advances can be “Boosted” by taking surveys, scanning receipts, inviting friends to use the app and answering various questions depending on location
- Available in all states
- Financial dashboard that shows spending categories and trends on cash spending
Cons:
- Loan amount is only up to $100
- Small fee of $2.49 per month for same day advance
- Basic advance with no fees may take up to 3 days turnaround time
Affirm (Most Like a Personal Loan)
Affirm is a fintech company founded back in 2012. It is more of a buy now pay later site that provides users with a credit of at least 4 months to purchase in accredited online shops.
They do not loan out cash per se and earn commissions from accredited online lenders or online shops. In fact, Affirm is the exclusive partner of Amazon for buy now pay later options until January of 2023.
Technically, Affirm is not just a financial app but more of a payment option. You may be in an online store application like Amazon and given Affirm as a payment option upon checkout. Once Affirm is chosen as a payment option, users will then be redirected to the app to confirm the purchase.
- Loan amount: The purchase price of products to be bought up to $17,500
- APR: 0% to 30% depending on terms
- Minimum Credit Score: None
- BBB Rating: None
- Fees: No upfront fees but may have interest depending on terms
Pros:
- Early payment is not charged fees
- Purchases can be paid in monthly installments and not in a lump sum
- No fees are to be paid upfront
- Some merchants offer 0% interest rates
- Pre-qualification offered
Cons:
- No payment or late payment can affect credit
- On-time payments are not reported to the three major credit bureaus
- Interest rates up to 30%
- Limited accredited retailers
Possible (Small Loan App)
Possible Finance is a lending platform. Unlike payday loan apps, Possible can be used by people with no credit standing. Repayment is not necessary come Friday and payment can be done within 2 months.
- Loan amount: up to $500
- APR: 150% to 200%
- Minimum Credit Rating: None required
- BBB Rating:
- Fees: Varies depending on state location
Pros:
- On-time payments are reported
- Helps build credit report
- Easy application in as fast as 60 seconds
- Funds can be deposited ready for withdrawal in minutes
- Bad credit accepted
- Payment can be laid out in two months
Cons:
- Only available in 21 states
- Limited loanable amount only up to $500
- Must be linked to checking account
- Higher APR compared to other lenders and credit card
What Can Cash Advance Apps Give Me?
With them, you can receive money to help with cash flow issues in a way that doesn’t cost you anything extra. A fee of less than $10 per month is all they will ask for, and some don’t even ask for a fee at all. This happens in the form of optional tips.
How Do Cash Advance Apps Offer Money?
Basically, they allow income earners to have funds deposited directly to their accounts even before payday. The payment will be automatically deducted from the same checking account on the date specified in the agreement. In this way, advance payments allow people to borrow the funds they have already earned. This short-term solution issues extra cash via a direct deposit on the borrower’s debit card.
Just by the name, cash is deposited in a user’s account in advance. Most of these apps set eligibility requirements. They may include proof of employment like a timesheet to check the cash flow. This is very convenient for employees with electronic timesheets.
Lenders do it to ensure you can repay the loan amount. The sum credited in advance will then be automatically deducted when you receive your next wages.
These apps offer small amounts ranging from around $5 to $300 due to the expected salary.
They may also charge fees for their products and services. Most of them require a membership fee, optional tips, or monthly subscriptions starting at $1. The membership fee is the amount of money a user pays per month. These monthly subscriptions are due monthly regardless of how seldom or often the app is used. Tips are optional and apps swear that every user gets the same quality of products or services regardless of tips.
How to Get Cash in Advance?
Various apps have different dashboards or layouts but generally offer similar financial products. Here are some ways to get Cash in Advance through online apps.
- Download the App of your choice
- Register and open your account
- Login to your account
- Setup advance terms
- Receive Cash in a designated bank account
- The pay period is usually scheduled when you’re paid by your employer
It is that easy! Just make sure to follow the directions depending on the app of your choice. Some apps do not require a bank account but may provide users with a credit line that can be used for purchases. Make sure to pay on time within the scheduled pay period or on the date specified to avoid paying extra fees and charges.
Advance Apps for Android
Since the Google Play Store has all types of mobile apps designed for different uses, Androids are popular devices because people can easily find and download anything they want.
Aside from this, Android developers use its open-source design to create innovative apps. This creates a rich ecosystem that caters to all your money needs, including loans.
Android phone users can easily access and use a cash advance app through the following process:
- On your Android device, open the Google Play Store.
- Enter keywords related to the app you need to borrow from in the search bar. For example, either of the apps from this list or simply type “money advance”.
- Browse through the search results, (check reviews, features, scores) and select the one you want.
- To get the application on your phone, look for the “download” button.
- Follow the prompts to register and apply once the installation is competed.
Advance Apps for IOS
Due to Apple’s strict quality control system, iOS is an excellent platform for apps. Interfaces are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, and they also work well with other Apple devices.
Plus, Apple is always updating its system to make sure that people who need a cash advance apply for one with the latest features.
Using one of these apps on iOS is as easy as following these steps:
- On your iOS device, go into your App Store.
- In the search bar at the top of the screen, type in keywords like “loans,” “money advance,” or “short-term loans” to find the one you want.
- Browse through the search results, making note of the app’s description, reviews, and ratings.
- Hit the “Get” button to download and install it on your iOS device. For security, you might have to provide a password.
- Follow the instructions on screen, after downloading and installing to create an account or sign in with an existing one.
Should You Use Advance Apps?
Money advances provide quick cash without hard credit checks. You can apply for this personal loan even with bad credit. Advance lenders pay attention to your income, not your credit history.
At the same time, the ability to get funds within a few minutes can cost you more than other loan solutions. These apps may charge membership and other fees. If you miss the due date, you may also face late fees. The repayment terms are usually short and may not be enough to repay the debt.
It means that advances should be used only in emergencies. Online lending platforms send direct deposits to the borrowers’ accounts instantly. But before you apply for this option make sure you can repay the debt.
Advance Apps vs Payday Loans
Please refer to the table below for a side-by-side comparison between these two lenders.
| Feature | Cash Advances Features | Payday Loan Features |
|---|---|---|
| Interest Rates | Typical around 24% APR without additional fees |
Around 400% and up |
| Minimum Loan Amount | $100 | $100 |
| Maximum Loan Amount | Only up to $2500 | Only up to $2500 |
| Fees | May range from $1-$20 or 5% of transaction |
Finance charges up to $30 for every $100 borrowed |
| Eligibility Requirements | Credit Card or App Registration | Bank account and ID |
| Repayment | Lumpsum | Lumpsum |
| Term | Minimum 7 days to a maximum of 30 days | Minimum 7 days to a maximum of 30 days |
| Report to Bureaus | No | No |
| Credit Check | No | No |
As you see, payday lenders set higher interest and annual percentage rates but offer similar features including bad credit loans. However, some advance apps that offer cash advances may charge a monthly subscription fee irrespective of your account activity.
How to Find the Top Cash Advance App Available
There are plenty of options to choose from when looking for an app. So, it is important to know what to look out for and study the rates provided. Here are some things to check out:
- Fees
There are apps that do not charge interest and registration fees but require a recurring monthly fee regardless of activity on the app. Make sure to weigh all the fees involved and choose the most cost-effective one. Sometimes, it would be better to pay for a one-time registration fee than a recurring monthly fee regardless of usage.
- Repayment terms
Most apps require payment within 7 days or by scheduled payday. But there are also options to extend in exchange for a fee. So make sure to consider the term and pay period on time to avoid additional charges. Before confirming the payment schedule, make sure that payroll is indeed scheduled on that date.
- Cash Limits
There are apps that are limited to $100 but some can offer more. Once repaid, this said loanable amount may also increase. So, make sure to loan an amount that will be fully covered by your payroll.
- Customer Reviews
It is always a wise decision to read customer reviews to get a good hold of customer satisfaction. If other users are not satisfied with the app’s performance, you are more than likely to experience the same kind of service.
Cash Advance Apps Don’t Always Need a Credit Check
When it comes to borrowing money with no credit check, there’s neither a quick solution nor an easy way out. Even if an emergency happens and you need money in a hurry, the best thing you should do before jumping in with both feet is to think carefully. Of course, in times when every second counts, and you have no time for side gigs, cash in advance may become a helping hand.
- But who will pay back all those mountains of interest at the end of the day if not you?
If a loan with no credit check seems like a perfect match for you, think again. Chances are you’re one of those users who spend 90% of mobile time in apps. Getting money in advance is right at your fingertips.
The number of apps that let you receive money abounds even with bad credit and sees no end in sight. No matter your reason, there is at least one payday app that can help you before your next payday.
Most of the best payday advance apps include tools that help you keep your financial wellness in tip-top shape. In times when some get paid today apps can help improve your financial history, and other fast money apps help cover your financial shortfall.
Now, what is your case?
Useful Hacks for Using Advance Apps
Online lending platforms are easy to use and navigate. You can submit an online application or apply to customer support to get access to cash quickly. At the same time, if you are not prepared to face such financial technology, you may suffer from multiple temptations.
We have prepared some helpful tips to help you take maximum advantage of an advance app. They are worth reading before taking a personal loan if you don’t want to waste your time and money. Because much like payday loans, they can be expensive if you get the wrong one.
Review Lender Before you Get a Cash Deposit
It is essential to know that most apps with this feature don’t issue money. They work as mediators between borrowers and direct lenders that facilitate the process.
That is why loan terms and conditions differ a lot. And here, you must be attentive! It is essential to learn the percentage rate, fees, and loan repayment period a lender offers. Remember that small print usually contains the most essential and unpleasant information for you. These are cons of cash apps, so read their terms to avoid hidden fees.
If you have a poor credit rating, look for lenders that provide soft checking solutions. Such lenders won’t spoil your rating by reporting to major credit bureaus.
Since you are paying a fee for using one of these apps, you have the right to choose between different options as long as you need it.
Understand How Much You Need
Unfortunately, fee-free loans don’t exist. For financial services, you must pay an APR and interest rate. What’s more, if you miss payments, you may face late fees. All these service fees may lead to more significant financial problems.
That is why it is essential to understand how much money you need in your checking account. Try to be objective and remember that you must cover this debt within a pay period which is usually very short.
Build Up an Emergency Fund
Loan products appear to be fast and convenient. Since they are easy to get, people may be trapped in a vicious circle of debts.
That is why an emergency fund is better even than the most reliable advance app. It may be challenging to save money if you haven’t done it before. Anyway, money management skills are pivotal today.
You should start with small but regular contributions to a separate debit card. It is better to automate your savings and open a saving account. Deposit money and try to forget about your savings for a while. It is also important not to use credit cards during this period. At first, you may feel like you can’t make ends meet, but you will be grateful to yourself in the future.
Pay Off Your Debt on Time
If you apply for a loan, you must understand that missed payments can spoil your credit report considerably. Consequently, you won’t be able to get your money using loan services and even go bankrupt.
That is why following the deadlines and depositing money in your account is essential. If you are afraid to forget about the due date, set a push notification in your app and check the card’s balance from time to time.
Alternatives to Cash Advance Apps
While many cash advance apps can get you money when you’re in a bind, you don’t have to use them. So here are other financing options you can take a look into:
- Installment Loans
Installment loans need to be paid in scheduled and regular installments. If payment is not done on time, fees may be charged. So, if a user is not able to pay within the scheduled per pay period 2 months in a row, interest rates will be charged for both unpaid months.
Examples of installment loans may include real estate loans, car or auto loans, and even student loans. The advantage of installment loans is that it includes flexible short-term loans at lower rates but terms may be longer as well. Also, if a client fails to pay multiple times, collateral may be ceased by the lending institution by default.
- Personal Loans
These are loans to pay for personal finance or unexpected expenses and may be secured with collateral or unsecured depending on the lending institution and amount of loan. One may cover upcoming bills, medical bills, debt payments or consolidation, home renovation, and the like. They are different from installment loans because they are used to fund specific personal expenses.
- Peer-to-Peer lending
Peer-to-Peer lending or P2P lets individuals loan from other individuals. This cuts out the middleman which is the financial institution. It is also known as crowd lending or social lending. There are P2P websites like Prosper, Lending Club, and Upstart that connect individuals directly to people who are willing to invest and lend their money.
The problem with these alternatives is time. It may take a while to be approved for personal/installment loans, and P2P lending.
