Turbo Takeaways

Albert is a cash advance app that offers up to $250 in overdraft protection. However, accessing the 'Instant' feature requires a Genius membership, which costs an additional $96 per year.

Beyond cash advances, Albert offers a suite of robust tools and features, including automated savings, budget tracking, and financial advice. Here’s a quick breakdown of Albert's key features:

  • Advance Limit: $250
  • Monthly Fee: N/A
  • Processing Time: 2-3 business days. Instant processing with an extra fee
  • Repayment: Next Payday

If you need quick cash, you can choose from other apps like Albert. Many of these cash advance apps are more cost-effective and allow you to borrow higher amounts.

Read on for our top five recommendations for quick cash advances, along with borrowing limits, costs, pros, and cons.

5 Cash Advance Apps Like Albert

Albert is a cash advance app known for its overdraft coverage. We compared 12 apps that provide fast access to cash based on their features, borrowing amounts, fees, processing times, and repayment requirements to select the five best cash advance apps like Albert.


Cash Advance AppAdvance LimitMonthly FeeProcessing TimeRepayment
Dave$500$1/month2-3 business days. Instant transfers for an extra fee of $0.99-$3.99Next payday
EarnIn$750Optional tip1-2 business days. Instant processing with the Lightning featureNext payday
Brigit$250$9.99 to $14.99/month1-3 business days. Processing within 20 minutes for an extra feeFlexible repayment
Cleo$500$2.99 to $14.99/month4 business days. Instant processing for an express fee of $3.99 to $9.99Next payday, 14-day extension available
Chime$200No feeInstantlyNext payday, 14-day extension available

1. Dave

  • Advance Limit: $500
  • Monthly Fee: $1/month
  • Processing Time: 2-3 business days. Instant transfers for an extra fee of $0.99-$3.99
  • Repayment: Next payday

Dave is a cash advance app that tops the list because it allows cash advances ranging from $25 to $500. With the ExtraCash feature, which requires a modest fee to use, you can immediately get the amount in your checking account.

The membership fee is quite low, at just $1 per month. As an added bonus, members can get their pay two days early, get access to a Mastercard debit card, and gain access to a side gig marketplace where they can earn extra money in their spare time.

ProsCons
You can borrow as little as $25Express funding fees are higher than competitors
No credit checkYou can only take out one advance at a time
No interest or late feesYou’ll need to provide your personal financial information
A very low monthly membership feeIt may take some time to establish your spending patterns and a solid income history to qualify for the higher borrowing limits

  • Advance Limit: $750
  • Monthly Fee: Optional tip
  • Processing Time: 1-2 business days. Instant processing with the Lightning feature
  • Repayment: Next payday

The EarnIn cash advance app offers the highest advance amount at $100 per day and $750 per pay period. There are no monthly fees or interest. However, you can pay an optional tip instead.

ProsCons
Higher borrowing limit of $750Requires your banking details and account history
No interestMay verify your employment, as advances are only available to those with employment income, excluding customers who do gig work as part of their primary income
No credit checksAutomatic repayment may result in overdraft fees
No mandatory monthly fees

  • Advance Limit: $250
  • Monthly Fee: $9.99 to $14.99/month
  • Processing Time: 1-3 business days. Processing within 20 minutes for an extra fee
  • Repayment: Flexible repayment

You can borrow up to $250 with Brigit’s cash advance feature without any interest or credit check. The app also offers features that can help you build credit over time.

Unlike Albert and many other cash advance apps that have automatic repayment, Brigit offers more flexibility. You can pay early or request an extension when needed. However, subscription costs can be higher.

ProsCons
Flexible repaymentHigh monthly membership fee
Offers a credit builder featureMonthly fees are mandatory
No interest or credit check

4. Cleo

  • Advance Limit: $500
  • Monthly Fee: $2.99 to $14.99/month
  • Processing Time: 4 business days. Instant processing for an express fee of $3.99 to $9.99
  • Repayment: Next payday, 14-day extension available

Cleo cash advance allows you to borrow up to $500. However, initial advances can be low. One benefit of Cleo is that you can request a 14-day extension if you can’t repay on your payday.

ProsCons
No credit checksLow initial borrowing limits
No interest charges or feesLonger processing and cash transfer time
Helpful money management tools, which are available with a subscriptionYou’ll need to be a member for cash advances
Flexible repayment terms

  • Advance Limit: $200
  • Monthly Fee: No fee
  • Processing Time: Immediately
  • Repayment: Next payday, 14-day extension available

With Chime’s SpotMe, you can borrow up to $200 without a credit check or monthly fees. You’ll need to have a Chime account to use this feature. You can use your debit card to get access to cash instantly without any fees, which can be an enormous help in emergencies.

ProsCons
No monthly membership feesYou’ll need a Chime account and a Chime debit card
Immediate access to cashMust have a $200 qualifying deposit
No credit score requirementsThird-party fees like ATM charges may apply when accessing cash
Early access to your paycheckSpending limits on some purchases and withdrawals
No overdraft fees

Things To Consider When Comparing Apps Like Albert

When comparing cash advance apps like Albert, consider how much you need to borrow, if you need any extra features, and the costs involved. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Fees and Interest Rates

Apps like Albert are usually not completely free. There may be a monthly subscription fee to access the advance or get access to additional features. You may have to pay extra to get access to the funds immediately.

Some apps may also have an optional tip structure. Be sure to read the terms and conditions so you’re aware of how much you’ll have to pay and that you’re not spending any more than you’re comfortable with.

Repayment Options

With most cash advance apps, you’ll have to repay the amount you borrowed (along with any fees) on your next payday. Apps like Albert will automatically deduct the payment when your next paycheck hits your bank account.

You may have to pay an overdraft fee if you have a low balance in your account when the automatic withdrawal goes through. Check to see if the lender offers the option of extending the repayment period if you’re unable to repay it by the next paycheck.

User Reviews and Ratings

Before you choose a cash advance app like Albert, it's important to read the reviews and ratings of the apps. This will allow you to learn more about what other users have to say about the company’s service, fees, and customer care.

Ask friends and family for recommendations if they’ve used a cash advance app in the past. This is a good way to get first-hand insight into whether an app would be suitable for your needs.

Compare Multiple Apps Like Albert Before You Pick One

While many apps like Albert offer hassle-free cash advances, the right alternative will depend on your unique needs. Review the options listed in this guide, check your eligibility, and read the online reviews for cash advance providers.

Be sure to understand the risks involved in taking out a cash advance and how the fees can add up over time, especially if you fail to repay when you get the next paycheck. While cash advance apps are better than payday loans, they can be expensive.

Most importantly, know that relying on these apps each month is not a long-term solution, so you may want to explore other alternatives. For example, personal loans may be a better option if you need larger loan amounts.

Speak with a credit counselor for personal finance education if you need help getting control over your spending habits.