There are a few different types of apps that let you borrow money. Some are designed for short-term borrowing, while others are meant for longer-term loans. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Payday loan apps: These apps offer loans of up to $500 that must be repaid within a few weeks or on your next payday. They typically have high interest rates, so they should only be used as a last resort.
2. P2P lending apps: These platforms connect borrowers with individual lenders who agree to fund their loan. Loans can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, and terms can be anywhere from a few months to a few years. Interest rates will vary depending on the lender, but they tend to be lower than traditional loans from banks or credit unions.
3. Credit card cash advance apps: Some credit cards allow you to borrow cash against your credit limit, which can be helpful in an emergency situation. However, these advances typically come with high interest rates and fees, so they should only be used as a last resort.
Earnin: Best for low fees
If you’re looking for a way to borrow money with low fees, Earnin is a great option. With no monthly or annual fees, you can use Earnin to get cash advance up to $500 without paying any interest. You can also have your employer deposit your paycheck directly into your Earnin account, which gives you early access to your earnings.
Dave: Best for small advances
Dave is a financial app that offers short-term cash advances of up to $100. Once you’re approved for a loan, the money is transferred to your account within 24 hours. You then have up to four weeks to repay the loan, plus a $15 fee. Dave also offers overdraft protection and will advance you up to $75 if you’re in danger of overspending.
If you need cash fast, Dave can be a great option. The biggest downside is the high fee – $15 for every $100 borrowed – which can add up quickly if you’re not able to repay the loan right away. But if you need a small amount of money to tide you over until your next paycheck, Dave can be worth considering.
Brigit: Best for budgeting tools
If you’re looking for a budgeting tool that also allows you to borrow money, Brigit is a great option. With Brigit, you can connect your bank account and track your spending, set budgets, and even get up to $250 in cash advances when you need it. There’s no credit check required to use Brigit, so it’s perfect for those with bad or no credit. Plus, there are no fees for using Brigit’s service – you only pay back what you borrow plus any interest that accrues.
Chime: Best for overdraft protection
If you’re looking for a bank that offers overdraft protection, Chime is a great option. With Chime, you can link your account to a savings account or credit card so that if you ever need to make an emergency purchase, you won’t have to worry about being charged excessive fees.
Another great feature of Chime is that it offers early direct deposit. This means that if you receive a paycheck or other direct deposit from your employer, you can access the funds up to two days earlier than with other banks. This can be helpful in a pinch if you need access to cash quickly.
Finally, Chime doesn’t charge any monthly fees and there are no minimum balance requirements. This makes it an affordable option for those who want to avoid paying unnecessary fees.
MoneyLion: Best for multiple financial products
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for all your financial needs, MoneyLion is the app for you. Not only does it offer a free checking account with no fees and no minimum balance, but you can also get a personal loan, credit builder loan, and even invest through the app.
Plus, if you’re looking to save money, MoneyLion has a great feature called Round-Ups. This automatically saves your spare change from purchases made with your linked debit or credit card and invests it into a portfolio of your choosing.
