Key takeaways
- Cash advance apps offer instant access to cash without a credit check.
- These apps have minimal fees and no interest charges.
- Cash advance apps are convenient but should not replace long-term financial planning.
Cash advance apps can be a lifesaver if you’re living paycheck to paycheck. And the majority of Americans are. These apps send you a small amount of money almost instantly at little to no cost. You get the funds you need before payday. They can be an easy way to avoid overdrafts, cover rent, or pay for groceries.
What exactly are cash advance apps, and how do they work? Here’s what you need to know.
Jump to:
- What are cash advance apps?
- How do cash advance apps work?
- How to borrow money from a cash app?
- Benefits of cash advance apps
- How to choose the right cash advance app
- What to be aware of with cash advance apps
- Tips for using cash advance apps
- Are cash advance apps safe?
- Alternatives to cash advance apps
- Bottom line
What are cash advance apps?
Cash advance apps provide quick and easy access to cash. You can borrow small amounts of money, $25-$500, though some go higher. Many apps will only send you money you’ve already earned but haven’t been paid yet.
These apps typically do not conduct a credit check – perfect if you have poor credit. Instead, they review your banking history and note how much you earn to determine how much to lend you. Funds are sent to your bank account via direct deposit or to connected debit cards within one to two business days. Most apps also offer fast funding for a fee, where you get the money instantly.
Cash advance apps are an alternative to online payday lenders and cost much less. They may charge a monthly subscription fee of $1-$10 or an optional tip rather than high interest rates and excessive fees. The lower cost and more flexible repayment terms can help you avoid the cycle of debt. Still, they are designed to provide short-term relief for unexpected expenses and prevent overdraft fees. They are not a long-term solution to financial problems.
Many apps offer additional features like budgeting tools and overdraft protection. Their goal is to promote financial health and stability.
How do cash advance apps work?
Cash advance apps have become popular because they’re an easy way to access quick cash before your next paycheck. So how do they work? The apps actually grant you a small amount of money as an advance of your expected earnings. That’s why many go by the name paycheck advance app.
You connect the app to your primary checking account and allow it to monitor your income and expenditures. The app uses this information to assess your eligibility for an advance. Some apps require you to receive direct deposit, while others need access to your work time sheet.
When you request an advance, the app will review your transaction history from your bank account or work time sheet to determine how much to lend you. Borrowing limits are usually set low. Pay the money back on time consistently, and the maximum loan amount should go up.
Once approved, the app transfers funds instantly or within a few business days to a linked debit card or bank account via direct deposit.
You will then have to pay back the loan on your next payday. Most apps automatically withdraw the money from your linked bank account when it’s due. If you can’t pay back the advance when it’s due or a withdrawal will lead to overdraft fees, don’t worry. Most apps let you change the due date in advance at no cost. With instant transfers, flexible repayment, and no hard inquiries, cash advance apps can match the appeal of 1 hour payday loans without a credit check.
How to borrow money from a cash app?
Borrowing money from a cash advance app is typically quick and straightforward. First, download the app of your choice and create an account. You’ll need to provide basic personal and financial details. Most apps will require you to link your bank account and verify your income or employment.
Once set up, you can request a cash advance directly through the app, usually by selecting the amount you need. Approvals are often instant, especially for smaller amounts. Once approved, funds are quickly deposited into your linked account, sometimes within minutes.
Repayment is often automatically deducted from your next paycheck. You may be able to change the repayment date depending on the app. Keep in mind that borrowing limits, fees, and repayment terms vary by app, so read the terms carefully before accepting the advance.
Benefits of guaranteed cash advance apps
No credit check
Cash advance apps don’t conduct a hard or even soft credit check. Like no credit check loans, they don’t look at your credit report or report to the credit bureaus. Instead, they review your bank account transactions and electronic timesheets. They’re more interested in when you get paid, how much you’ve earned, and how often your bank account goes negative. These factors determine your advance amount, not your credit history.
Few fees
Cash advance apps are known for having minimal fees, many of which are optional. Some apps have a monthly subscription fee and offer other features like budgeting tools or credit builder loans. Most apps only request an optional tip and charge extra to get your money instantly. Both of which you can decline. Mandatory fees are few and far between, as are interest charges.
Fast funding
Cash advance apps are designed for quick turnarounds, perfect if you need $1,000 dollars now. Most send money within one to three business days, the same time it takes to get a personal loan. You can pay a little extra to get your cash within hours if needed.
Flexible repayment terms
Generally, these apps have a repayment period of two weeks or less, but many let you change your payment due date. If you know that you won’t be able to repay on your next payday or that repaying will overdraw your account, let the app know.
Nonpayment won’t lead to collections
Most cash advance apps don’t report payments to the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion), send borrowers to collections for not repaying, or sue users. There are, of course, a few exceptions, but most apps simply won’t grant you another advance until you repay the first.
How to choose the right cash advance app
There are tons of cash advance apps available. Choosing the right one for you depends on your financial situation and what you want.
- Think about how much you need to borrow. Different apps advance different amounts. Make sure the app you choose can cover your needs.
- Consider the funding speed. Most apps transfer money within one to three business days for free. Or you can get instant funding for a fee. Make sure the fast funding fees are manageable.
- Evaluate all the fees. Some apps charge a monthly membership fee. Others have optional tips and fast funding fees. Understanding the total costs of a cash advance can help you avoid unexpected charges.
- Read the repayment terms. All apps have their own repayment rules. Most require payment on your next payday. Check how easy it is to change the due date in case you ever need extra time.
- Find out if the app offers overdraft protection. A lot of cash advance apps will automatically withdraw funds when due. The automatic withdrawal can lead to overdraft fees if your account is low. See if the app offers protection against this.
- Research the app’s reputation. Read customer reviews and check ratings on app stores for insight into the user experience. Look for apps with positive reviews and helpful customer service.
- Look for additional features and financial tools. Lots of cash advance apps also offer budgeting tools, financial advice, or the ability to track spending. Extra features you’ll use are especially important if you’re paying a monthly membership fee.
- Assess eligibility requirements. Some apps require you to have direct deposit set up, an active bank account that’s over three months old, or an electronic timesheet. Make sure that you meet the app’s eligibility criteria.
What to be aware of with cash advance apps
Cash advance apps can provide valuable assistance during financial emergencies, but before you use one, take the time to understand their potential pitfalls.
Habit of borrowing
Relying on cash advance apps regularly can lead to dependency. These services are for emergencies, not monthly use. If you find that you consistently need to borrow, it’s time to increase your income.
Initial advance amount can be low
When you start using a cash advance app, the initial borrowing limit may be modest. Many apps start with a low advance amount to assess your repayment habits. As you repay on time, the app will likely increase the amount you can borrow.
Fees can add up
Costs can make advances expensive. There’s the potential subscription fee, optional tip, and fast funding fee. While the fees are modest on their own, they add up fast. Avoid using fast funding and wait to get your money for free. Also, there’s no benefit to tipping.
Repayment may cause an overdraft
Most apps withdraw payment automatically on your next payday. If you don’t have enough money in your account for whatever reason, this can cause an overdraft. Overdraft fees can go up to $35.
Need emergency cash immediately?
Tips for using instant cash advance apps
Cash advance apps can be a convenient tool for dealing with unexpected expenses, but it’s essential to use them wisely.
The first rule is not to overtip. Tips are optional and will not affect your access to future advances. Secondly, plan ahead so you don’t need to use the fast funding feature. While both the suggested tip and fast funding fee appear small, they can add up. For instance, say you take out a $200 advance due in 14 days. You pay a $5 fast funding fee and leave an $11 tip. That is equivalent to a 200% APR (annual percentage rate). A triple-digit APR is too high. An affordable APR is below 36%.
Anytime you borrow money, have a plan in place to repay it. The rule also applies to cash advance apps. You must adjust your budget, knowing your next paycheck will be short. Changing your spending, at least temporarily, will help you avoid taking out another advance immediately.
Cash advance apps are helpful for emergencies, but refrain from relying on them too much. They are a tool, not a substitute for consistent income.
Are cash advance apps safe?
Cash advance apps are generally safe to use. Most employ encryption technology to protect your data and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.
They are also considered safer than payday loans and less likely to lead to a cycle of debt. They do not charge hefty interest rates or rollover fees if you can’t pay on time, like payday lenders do. The fees they do charge are minimal, and many are optional.
Alternatives to cash advance apps
Cash advance apps are helpful, but not for everyone or every situation. Anytime you need money, consider all your borrowing options to make an informed decision.
Personal loans
Personal loans, especially those from credit unions, typically offer a lower APR than cash advances. Payday alternative loans from federal credit unions have their APRs capped at 28%.
Traditional loans can be more affordable and are a more practical choice if you need to borrow a larger amount of money. Most are repaid in installments. This means you pay a fixed amount each month rather than a lump sum. Monthly payments are easier to budget for than lump-sum payments.
You can get personal loans for bad credit. Look into online lenders, credit unions, and community banks. All have more lenient requirements. You will likely pay a higher interest rate if your credit score is poor, so be sure to prequalify and compare offers.
Looking for a loan but have bad credit?
Credit cards
Credit cards are another way to finance purchases when you’re low on cash. If you can pay your statement balance in full by the due date, you won’t have to pay any interest or late fees.
You could also apply for a credit card with an introductory 0% APR to manage expenses without incurring immediate interest charges. Be sure to pay the balance in full before the introductory period ends and the interest rate increases dramatically.
Another option is to withdraw cash directly from an ATM using your credit card. Credit card cash advances give you instant access to money. The credit card issuer will charge fees and a higher interest rate that applies immediately for access to funds. Credit card cash advances can be helpful if you need extra cash right away and can pay it back fast.
Peer-to-peer lending
Peer-to-peer lending platforms connect borrowers directly with individual lenders, often at competitive rates. This method provides an alternative to traditional bank loans, typically offering more flexibility. However, interest rates can vary, so it’s important to compare offers before committing.
Buy now, pay later (BNPL) apps
BNPL apps allow you to spread out the cost of purchases, over usually over four to six weeks. They don’t charge interest or fees if you make all your payments on time. Like cash advance apps, most do not require a credit check. The catch with BNPL apps is that they often lead to overspending.
Borrow from friends and family
Friend or family loans can be a cost-effective solution to a cash shortage. Most people don’t charge interest or fees and will provide flexible repayment terms. For the sake of your relationship, it’s essential to clearly communicate the terms before borrowing.
Frequently asked questions
1. What cash advance apps work with Cash App?
Several cash advance apps are compatible with Cash App, including Albert, Empower, and Brigit. These apps let you connect Cash App as your receiving account. Linking the two provides quick, hassle-free access to advances and simplifies repayment. Always verify compatibility within each app, as integration options can occasionally change.
2. Do cash advances affect your credit score?
Most cash advance apps do not perform hard credit checks, so requesting an advance will not impact your credit. Generally, the apps do not report payments to credit bureaus, so whether you pay on time or not will not affect your score. There are exceptions to this rule so check with your app.
3. What happens if you can’t repay on time?
If you can’t repay on time, most apps will simply not let you borrow again until you’ve paid what you owe. Some may even suspend your account until the outstanding balance is settled. A few apps report late payments to the credit bureaus, which will hurt your credit score, though most do not.
4. How does a cash advance app differ from a payday loan?
Cash advance apps are more flexible and affordable than payday loans. They do not charge interest, and many of the fees are optional. Most apps also let you change your due date without a fee. Payday loans tend to have higher interest rates and fees equivalent to a 400% APR. If you need to extend the loan, most payday lenders charge you.
5. Can you get a free cash advance with no credit check?
It is possible to get a cash advance for free without a credit check. Very few, if any, apps conduct a credit check. To get an advance for free, you’ll have to find an app that does not charge a subscription fee. Then, do not tip and do not pay the fast funding fee.
6. What app gives you money instantly?
Virtually all cash advance apps provide instant advances. Typically, you can receive your money within minutes when you pay a small fee. If you can wait one to three business days, you can get your cash for free. Check with the app you’re interested in for exact funding times.
Bottom line
Cash advances are a viable alternative to payday loans when you need extra money. They can help you out in a pinch with cash to bridge the gap till payday. But don’t rely on them. While much cheaper and more manageable than payday loans, they are still a form of borrowing.
Your best bet for long-term financial stability is to create a budget and build an emergency fund. A budget can make your dollars stretch further. If you don’t have one, that should be your first priority. An emergency fund can be a safety net for when unexpected expenses hit. Cash advance apps are there for you anytime you need them, but a budget and emergency fund will provide long-term financial health.