5 Apps Like Albert for Quick Cash Advances

Albert is a cash advance app that offers overdraft protection of up to $250. However, you’ll have to pay an extra $96/year to be a Genius member if you want the “Instant” feature. Albert also has other robust tools and features, like financial advice, automated savings, and budget tracking.

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, along with borrowing limits, costs, pros, and cons.

5 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.

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 free time.

Pros

• You can borrow as little as $25
• No credit check
• No interest or late fees
• A very low monthly membership fee

Cons

• Express funding fees are higher than competitors
• You can only take out one advance at a time
• You’ll need to provide your personal financial information 
• It may take some time to establish your spending patterns and a solid income history to qualify for the higher borrowing limits

2. EarnIn

• 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.

Pros

• Higher borrowing limit of $750
• No interest
• No credit checks
• No mandatory monthly fees

Cons

• Requires your banking details and account history
• May 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
• Automatic repayment may result in overdraft fees

3. Brigit

• 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.

Pros

• Flexible repayment
• Offers a credit builder feature
• No interest or credit check

Cons

• High monthly membership fee
• Monthly fees are mandatory  

4. Cleo

• Advance Limit: $250
• 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 $250. However, you can’t borrow more than $100 for your first advance. One benefit of Cleo is that you can request a 14-day extension if you can’t repay on your payday.

Pros

• No credit checks
• No interest charges or fees
• Helpful money management tools, which are available with a subscription
• Flexible repayment terms

Cons

• Low borrowing limits
• Longer processing and cash transfer time
• You’ll need to be a member for cash advances

5. Chime

• 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 a big help in emergencies.

Pros

• No monthly membership fees
• Immediate access to cash
• No credit score requirements
• Early access to your paycheck
• No overdraft fees

Cons

• You’ll need a Chime account and a Chime debit card
• Must have a $200 qualifying deposit
• Third-party fees like ATM charges may apply when accessing cash
• Spending limits on some purchases and withdrawals

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 not able 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 we’ve 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. We also recommend speaking to a credit counselor for personal finance education if you need help getting control over your spending habits.