Dave is one of the most popular cash advance apps — but it caps advances at $500 and charges a $1/month membership fee. If you need a higher limit, faster funding, or simply want to compare your options, there are several strong alternatives that may serve you better depending on your situation. The best apps like Dave offer cash advances ranging from $100 to $750 with no hard credit check, no interest charges, and same-day or next-day funding. Here's how the top alternatives compare.
Quick Comparison: Best Apps Like Dave for Cash Advances
Upstart| App | Max Advance | Monthly Fee | Funding Speed | Credit Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dave | $500 | $1/mo | Up to 3 days | No |
| EarnIn | $750 | $0 (tips optional) | Same day | No |
| Brigit | $250 | $9.99/mo | Same day | No |
| MoneyLion | $500 | $0–$19.99/mo | Same day | No |
| Chime SpotMe | $200 | $0 | Instant | No |
| Albert | $250 | $14.99/mo | Same day | No |
| Empower | $250 | $8/mo | Same day | No |
| Cleo | $250 | $5.99/mo | Same day | No |
✓ Pros
- Build or rebuild credit history
- Earn rewards on everyday spending
- Fraud protection & zero liability
- Free FICO score on statements
✗ Cons
- High APR if you carry a balance
- Low initial credit limits
- Annual fees on some cards
- Hard inquiry on application
EarnIn — Best for Highest Advance Limit
EarnIn lets you access up to $750 per pay period based on hours you've already worked. There are no mandatory fees — the app operates on an optional tip model. Lightning Speed delivery (same-day funding) costs $3.99 per transfer, while standard delivery is free within 1–3 business days.
EarnIn requires a regular pay schedule and direct deposit to a checking account. It's the strongest Dave alternative if you need a higher advance limit.
Brigit — Best for Credit Building
Brigit offers up to $250 in cash advances with same-day funding for Plus subscribers ($9.99/month). What sets Brigit apart is its credit-building feature: the app reports on-time payments to all three credit bureaus, helping you build credit history while accessing short-term cash.
Brigit also includes a financial health score, spending insights, and identity theft protection in its premium tier.
MoneyLion — Best All-in-One App
MoneyLion combines cash advances (up to $500), a checking account, investment account, and credit builder loan in one app. The Instacash feature offers up to $500 with no interest and no mandatory fees — though same-day delivery costs $0.49–$8.99 depending on the amount.
MoneyLion's free tier is genuinely useful; the $19.99/month RoarMoney plan adds premium features but isn't required for cash advances.
Chime SpotMe — Best for No Fees
Chime's SpotMe feature lets eligible members overdraft their account by up to $200 with no overdraft fees. Unlike traditional cash advance apps, SpotMe works automatically — if you overdraft, Chime covers it and deducts it from your next deposit.
There are no fees, no tips, and no interest. The catch: you need a Chime account with at least $200 in monthly direct deposits to qualify.