Turbo Takeaways

Cleo is a cash advance and budgeting app that offers cash advances of up to $500, though initial advances can be low. While it’s a practical option for those who need money quickly, the steep membership fee can be a downside.

You’ll need to pay a monthly fee to access cash advances through the Cleo app or use credit builder tools. Instant processing is available for an additional express fee ranging from $3.99 to $9.99. Below is a brief summary of Cleo's key features:

  • Advance Limit: $500
  • Monthly Fee: $2.99 to $14.99/month
  • Processing Time: 4 business days
  • Repayment: Next payday, 14-day extension available

If you’re looking for apps like Cleo that are more cost-effective, consider some of the options we’ve listed in this guide.

5 Cash Advance Apps Like Cleo

We compared 12 apps like Cleo based on their advance limit, monthly fee, express fee, processing time, and repayment flexibility to select our top five recommendations.


Cash Advance AppAdvance LimitMonthly FeeProcessing TimeRepayment
Chime$200No feeInstantlyNext payday, 14-day extension available
Albert$250NA2-3 business days. Instant processing with an extra feeNext payday
Dave$500$1/month2-3 business days. Instant transfers for an extra fee of $0.99-$3.99Next payday
MoneyLion$500NA1-2 business days. Instant processing for an extra fee of $0.49-$8.99Next payday
EarnIn$750Optional tip1-2 business days. Instant processing with the Lightning featureNext payday

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

Chime SpotMe offers no-fee overdraft protection of up to $200, unlike Cleo, which charges a monthly fee. You’ll need to have a Chime checking account to access the service and must have at least $200 deposited in your account each month.

One benefit of Chime is that you can get your paycheck up to two days early in your account. The lender also offers a 14-day extension if you can’t repay the advance when you get your paycheck.

ProsCons
No-fee advancesFee-free overdrafts are only available to eligible customers
No monthly membership feesSome purchases and withdrawals may be subject to spending limits
Flexible repaymentYou may have to pay third-party fees like ATM charges
No credit check

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

The Albert cash advance app allows eligible users to borrow multiple advances per pay period if they have a good repayment history. There aren’t any mandatory membership fees, late fees, or interest charges.

Genius, the paid membership offered by Albert, provides you with access to additional features for $96 per year.

ProsCons
Free advances of up to $250Membership cost is quite steep
No mandatory fees or late feesYou’ll need to verify your income to qualify
Additional perks like cash-back available with paid membershipYou’ll be automatically enrolled in the paid membership when you create an account

3. Dave

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

Dave’s ExtraCash app offers free cash advances of up to $500, which is much higher than the $250 limit offered by Cleo. While you need to have a monthly membership, it only costs $1/month, which is much lower than competitors.

Other than cash advances, the mobile app also offers other features, such as budgeting tools and access to a gig platform.

ProsCons
No interest fee or late feesPersonal information, such as income history and spending patterns, is needed to qualify
Very low monthly membership feeInstant delivery fees can be high
Additional perks like budgeting tools and gig marketplace

  • Advance Limit: $500
  • Monthly Fee: NA
  • Processing Time: 1-2 business days. Instant processing for an extra fee of $0.49-$8.99
  • Repayment: Next payday

With the MoneyLion InstaCash app, you don’t need to pay a monthly fee to get advances of up to $500. For added perks and tools, there are several membership options, such as the Credit Builder Plus program for $19.99/month and the RoarMoney package for $1/month. With a RoarMoney membership, you can borrow advances of up to $1,000.

ProsCons
No mandatory feesHigh monthly fee for credit building and budgeting features
Larger cash advance amountsIt may take weeks to qualify for the higher advance amounts
Offers several different types of financial services
Ability to extend repayment date

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

EarnIn cash advance app allows you to borrow up to $750 of your paycheck with the Cash-Out feature, depending on your eligibility. The advance limit is higher than most other apps, and there are no financing or interest charges.

You’ll need to be employed and have a minimum income of $320 per pay period to qualify for Cash Outs. There are no such income requirements with Cleo.

ProsCons
Higher borrowing limitsNot a viable option for gig workers
No credit score checkYou’ll need to verify your income
No mandatory monthly feesNot compatible with all banks

Things To Consider When Comparing Apps Like Cleo

If you’re looking for apps like Cleo, there are many options available. Here are a few things to keep in mind when comparing cash advance apps.

Fees and Interest Rates

Apps like Cleo may charge fees in a number of ways. For example, basic services may be available for a fee, but you’ll need to pay a monthly subscription fee to access other perks and tools.

Many apps allow you to borrow advances without any financing charges, but there may be an optional tip. There may also be other charges, such as late fees, express fees, and fees for transferring to some bank accounts. Be sure to compare these fees carefully so you can find the most affordable option.

“Make sure if you want to use this as an option that you check the fees involved with the app,” says Teresa Dodson, founder of Greenbacks Consulting. “In the end, it may not be worth the quick cash,” Dodson adds.

Repayment Options

Like payday loans, you’ll need to repay any advances you borrow on your next paycheck. Most apps like Cleo will withdraw this amount automatically from your account when your paycheck hits.

There may be an overdraft fee if your account doesn’t have enough funds on the scheduled repayment date. Be sure to plan on repaying the advance on time or ask for an extension if you don’t think you can pay.

User Reviews and Ratings

Read the customer reviews on review websites like TrustPilot and on iOS and Android app stores. This is a good way of comparing apps like Cleo because it’ll provide you with a better idea of other users’ experiences. Ask family and friends for recommendations and make sure the app has a good track record of customer service.

Compare Multiple Apps Like Cleo Before You Use One

While there are several cash advance apps like Cleo you can use to deal with unexpected expenses, the membership fees and other hidden fees may make them quite expensive. Compare multiple apps, carefully read the reviews, and make sure you’re aware of the true cost of borrowing funds.

Cash advances are only suitable for emergencies, and it's best not to rely on them regularly. There may be other borrowing options that are more suitable, such as personal loans for larger loan amounts.