- Most apps advance $20–$500 based on your direct deposits, with no hard credit check.
- Free transfers take 1–3 business days; instant delivery costs extra.
- Count every fee: membership, per-advance fee, instant fee and tip.
App comparison
| App | Advance range | How it charges |
|---|---|---|
| Dave (ExtraCash) | $25–$500 (new users average much less) | 5% per advance ($5 minimum, $15 maximum) plus a small monthly membership; external instant transfers cost extra |
| EarnIn (Cash Out) | Up to $150 per day and up to $750 per pay period | No required fee; optional tips; fee for instant (“Lightning Speed”) transfers |
| Brigit (Instant Cash) | Up to $500 on paid plans | Monthly subscription required for advances (reported from $8.99); free delivery in 2–3 business days or a fee for instant |
| Chime MyPay | Up to $500 for eligible Chime members | Free in about 24 hours; small fee for instant |
| Varo Advance | $20–$500 for eligible Varo customers | Flat fee by amount ($1.60–$40) |
| Cash App Borrow | About $20–$500 for eligible users | Flat 5% fee; late fee if overdue |
How these apps work
- You link your bank account (or use the app’s own bank account).
- The app reviews your deposits and spending to set a limit, with no hard credit check.
- You request an advance and choose free standard delivery or a paid instant transfer.
- On your next payday, the app automatically takes repayment from your account.
What a $100 advance really costs
A $5 instant fee on a $100 advance repaid in two weeks is the same as an APR of about 130%. Add a monthly membership and it rises further. That is still usually cheaper than a payday loan at $15 per $100 (about 391% APR), but it is not free money. Pick the free transfer when you can wait.
Taking advances from several apps at once can leave you with little of your next paycheck. If you need advances every pay period, look at the underlying budget gap or talk to a nonprofit credit counselor.
Which app fits?
- Already bank with Chime, Varo or Cash App? Check your own app first: no extra account needed.
- Paid hourly by an employer? EarnIn and employer earned wage access tools are built around hours worked.
- Need more than apps offer? Compare credit union PALs and same-day loans.
Tried the free options first?If you still need a small short-term loan, you can send one request to our lender network. Compare the cost carefully.
See loan optionsFrequently asked questions
What apps are like Dave?
EarnIn, Brigit and MoneyLion work similarly, as do bank features such as Chime MyPay, Varo Advance and Cash App Borrow. Limits and fees differ.
Which cash advance app gives the most money?
Several advertise up to $500, and EarnIn advertises up to $750 per pay period. Actual limits depend on your deposits, and new users usually start lower.
Do cash advance apps check credit?
Generally no hard credit check. They base limits on your bank deposits and account activity.
Are cash advance apps free?
Some can be free if you skip tips and use standard transfers, but many charge subscriptions, per-advance fees or instant-transfer fees.