Gig workers, such as Uber and Lyft drivers or other freelance workers, depend on their clients for income. While the flexibility of making your own schedule is appealing, the uncertainty behind your next payday can be stressful. Whether you’re looking for a cash advance app as a rideshare driver or other type of gig worker, we’ve got you covered.
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If you’re looking for some cash before your next payout and are thinking about a cash advance app, consider turnaround times, monthly fees and loan amounts, among other factors. We’ve pulled the top six apps, so you won’t have to.
With Cleo, borrowers can get a new cash advance just 24 hours after paying off a previous advance. That's fast compared to other cash advance app requirements, which may require up to three to five days between advances. And, if your finances change, Cleo allows you to reschedule your payment due date for added flexibility. Plus, it welcomes freelancers, with no minimum recurring deposits required, so it's a good instant cash advance for DoorDash drivers or other gig workers.
However, new users can only qualify for $20 to $100 at first, although that's not uncommon with cash advance apps.
Loan amount
$20 - $250
Turnaround time
3 to 4 days or instant for a fee.
Costs
$5.99 monthly membership fee to access cash advances
Available in all states
With Cleo, borrowers can get a new cash advance just 24 hours after paying off a previous advance. That's fast compared to other cash advance app requirements, which may require up to three to five days between advances. And, if your finances change, Cleo allows you to reschedule your payment due date for added flexibility. Plus, it welcomes freelancers, with no minimum recurring deposits required, so it's a good instant cash advance for DoorDash drivers or other gig workers.
However, new users can only qualify for $20 to $100 at first, although that's not uncommon with cash advance apps.
Pros
No payslips or W-2 forms required
New advance available after 24 hours
One-time due date extension
Doesn't require direct deposit
Cons
$250 advance limit is lower than some competitors
Advance limits start low for new users
Mixed customer reviews
APR
0%
Loan amount
Up to $250
Loan Term
Next deposit
Turnaround time
3 to 4 days or instant for a fee.
Loan amount
$20 - $250
Turnaround time
3 to 4 days or instant for a fee.
Costs
$5.99 monthly membership fee to access cash advances
EarnIn is a cash advance app that allows you to access up to $150 per day from your earned income and up to $750 per pay period. Gig workers have to submit their employment information as well as connect their bank account to get verified. There are no required fees to access any services, but gig workers and other users can opt to pay extra to access their Lightning Speed feature, which promises quicker turnaround.
Loan amount
Up to $750
Turnaround time
1 to 3 business days or within minutes for a fee starting at $2.99 per transfer
Costs
Free to use or within minutes with a fee as low as $2.99 per transfer
Not available in: Connecticut
EarnIn is a cash advance app that allows you to access up to $150 per day from your earned income and up to $750 per pay period. Gig workers have to submit their employment information as well as connect their bank account to get verified. There are no required fees to access any services, but gig workers and other users can opt to pay extra to access their Lightning Speed feature, which promises quicker turnaround.
Pros
Can access up to $750 per pay period
No membership fee
No credit checks or interest charges
Cons
Low customer rating on Trustpilot
Have to show proof of income
Limited to hours only worked
APR
0%
Loan amount
Up to $150/day, with a max of $750 between paydays
Loan Term
1 to 4 weeks
Turnaround time
1 to 3 business days or within minutes for a fee starting at $2.99 per transfer
EarnIn is not a bank. Access limits are based on your earnings and risk factors. Available in select states. Terms and restrictions apply. Visit EarnIn.com for full details. Expedited transfers available for a fee. Visit Earnin.com for full details.
Loan amount
Up to $750
Turnaround time
1 to 3 business days or within minutes for a fee starting at $2.99 per transfer
Costs
Free to use or within minutes with a fee as low as $2.99 per transfer
Dave offers advances up to $500 for gig workers, which is higher than most apps. And it doesn't require direct deposit, making it ideal for many freelance and gig workers. It also has the Side Hustle feature, giving gig workers access to more opportunities to earn fast cash, right from the app. But it does charge a monthly (undisclosed) membership fee, and it can cost up to $25 for fast transfers.
Loan amount
Up to $500
Turnaround time
Up to 3 business days or instant for a fee
Costs
Undisclosed
Available in all states
Dave offers advances up to $500 for gig workers, which is higher than most apps. And it doesn't require direct deposit, making it ideal for many freelance and gig workers. It also has the Side Hustle feature, giving gig workers access to more opportunities to earn fast cash, right from the app. But it does charge a monthly (undisclosed) membership fee, and it can cost up to $25 for fast transfers.
Pros
Doesn't require direct deposit
Advances up to $500
No late fees or interest charges
Side Hustle feature
Cons
Instant transfer fees as high as $25
Charges a monthly subscription fee
Requires $1,000 in monthly deposits to qualify for larger advances
Brigit is a cash advance app that provides access to advances ranging from $50 to $250, with a flat monthly subscription fee. It offers extra flexibility for gig workers by letting you extend your payment due date up to three times. Standard delivery takes up to three days, although fast transfers are free with a Premium subscription, or for a fee. However, it doesn't disclose its instant transfer fees.
Loan amount
$50 - $250
Turnaround time
2 to 3 business days or instant with a Premium subscription or for a fee.
Brigit is a cash advance app that provides access to advances ranging from $50 to $250, with a flat monthly subscription fee. It offers extra flexibility for gig workers by letting you extend your payment due date up to three times. Standard delivery takes up to three days, although fast transfers are free with a Premium subscription, or for a fee. However, it doesn't disclose its instant transfer fees.
Pros
No interest or late fees
Preventative overdraft notifications
Can extend payment due date three times
Cons
Primary account must be opened for at least 60 days
Must have three recurring deposits from same source
Doesn't disclose fees for instant transfers
Loan amount
$50 to $250
Loan Term
Until your next payday, but can extend
Turnaround time
2 to 3 business days or instant with a Premium subscription or for a fee.
Loan amount
$50 - $250
Turnaround time
2 to 3 business days or instant with a Premium subscription or for a fee.
Cash App provides a feature called Cash App Borrow, enabling users, including gig workers, to instantly borrow $20 to $200 with just a few taps on the app. There is a 5% fee involved, however, every time you borrow, but it doesn't charge a monthly fee like many other apps. To increase your chances of accessing the feature, you'll need to meet certain credit score requirements and deposit at least $1,000 into your Cash App account every month. If you see the Borrow option in your account, you're eligible.
Loan amount
$20 - $200
Turnaround time
Same day
Costs
5% flat fee
Available in all states
Cash App provides a feature called Cash App Borrow, enabling users, including gig workers, to instantly borrow $20 to $200 with just a few taps on the app. There is a 5% fee involved, however, every time you borrow, but it doesn't charge a monthly fee like many other apps. To increase your chances of accessing the feature, you'll need to meet certain credit score requirements and deposit at least $1,000 into your Cash App account every month. If you see the Borrow option in your account, you're eligible.
We evaluated various cash advance apps that served gig workers. We considered criteria such as loan amounts, turnaround time, fees and eligibility requirements. Our staff also reviewed reputable sources such as the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot. Finder.com’s methodology aims to provide a comprehensive take on cash advance apps, ensuring that the listed providers are trustworthy for our users.
How to compare cash advance apps for gig workers
When comparing the best cash advance apps for rideshare drivers or other gig workers, consider these key factors:
Limits. Some apps only offer advances up to $250, while others offer advances of $500 or more.
Monthly subscription charges. Many cash advance apps for gig workers require a monthly membership to qualify for advances, which could go as high as $20 a month. Other apps are practically free, unless you need an instant transfer.
Additional fees. Most apps charge a fee if you want same-day delivery for your advances. If you regularly need access to funds quickly, you may want to consider apps that have lower instant transfer fees.
Employment verification. Some apps require proof of employment even if you’re a gig worker.
Income or deposit requirements. Apps such as Dave require a minimum $1000 monthly income requirement to unlock higher advances. Others may just have minimum deposit requirements, which are less restrictive.
Repayment terms. In most cases, cash advance apps for DoorDash drivers and other gig workers require repayment on your next payday or next deposit, but some apps also offer extensions if you need it.
User reviews. Many apps have attractive features, but some have low customer ratings, which may help guide you in your search.
Pros and cons of cash advance apps
Like any financial product, cash advance apps come with benefits and risks. It’s important to be aware of all the details before you agree to an advance.
Pros
Quick turnaround time
Typically no interest or late fees
No credit check, usually
No extensive paperwork
Cons
May charge monthly subscription fees
May charge fees for same-day funding
Some apps require direct deposit
Advance amounts tend to be small for newer users
Benefits of cash advances for gig workers like Uber, Lyft and DoorDash drivers
Cash advances offer gig workers a quick and easy way to access funds without credit checks or a consistent employer. Gig workers also benefit from access to cash without a ton of fees or paperwork. Most importantly, a reliable cash advance app can offer independent contractors who may not have a specific payday or cash flow the financial cushion they need between payouts.
Cash advance apps can be helpful for all types of gig workers, including:
Cash apps are not payday lenders, although they do provide advances similar to payday loans, offering quick access to cash without a credit check. However, cash apps don’t generally charge the exorbitant interest rates you’d expect from payday lenders. Instead, cash apps make their money from monthly subscriptions and fast transfer fees.
Alternatives to cash advance apps
If you want to avoid monthly subscription fees that many cash advance apps charge, or need a higher loan amount, consider these alternatives to gig worker cash advance apps.
Payday Alternative Loan (PAL). PALs are offered by some federal credit unions and can provide a lower-cost alternative to a payday loan. PALs typically have more favorable terms and lower rates than traditional payday loans, but you’ll need to be a member.
Online personal Loans. If you need a higher loan amount, you may want to apply for a personal loan, with online lenders typically being the fastest option. While the APRs can be high, these loans provide access to funds without the steep costs associated with payday loans. You may also want to consider personal loans geared towards gig workers.
Local resources and lower-cost loans. Look into local resources, such as small-dollar bank loans offered by financial institutions and lower-cost loans that may be available in your community. Some credit unions and nonprofits also offer small-dollar lending programs as an alternative to payday loans.
These alternatives can provide a more sustainable and affordable way to address short-term financial needs without the high costs and risks associated with payday loans.
Dhara Singh was a freelance personal finance writer at Finder specializing in loans. Formerly she was a top 10 journalist at Yahoo Finance with more than 38+ million content views where she covered retirement and mortgages. She has also written for Bankrate, and CNET and continues to write for a variety of outlets, such as Investopedia and Worth magazine. Her articles focus on equipping readers with the right information and data so they can make the most informed decisions related to their finances.
Dhara previously worked as an insights analyst for Finder’s PR team, where she started the Deadliest Cities to Drive series in 2018, connecting interesting data analysis to a suite of car insurance products. When she’s not writing, Dhara coaches small business owners through her Stories to Sales programs and empowers them to use their life experiences to help other people. She has also self-published a poetry book on Amazon called Tell her She’s Lovely.
Dhara holds a B.S. in Finance and Supply Chain Management from Rutgers University and a M.S. in Journalism from Columbia University. See full bio
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