Best Cash Advance Apps For Bad Credit In 2023 [Experts Guide]

Unexpected expenses and financial emergencies can happen to anyone. When they do, finding a reliable solution can be challenging, especially for individuals with poor credit scores. If you are one of those people, don't fret!

This blog introduces the best cash advance apps for bad credit to help you meet your short-term financial needs without the burden of high interest rates or complicated paperwork.

We understand how crucial it is to have access to quick cash during trying times. That's why we've sifted through numerous options and curated a list of top rated cash advance apps that cater specifically to people with low credit scores.

Say goodbye to feeling helpless in financial emergencies and take control of your finances with these easy-to-use and trustworthy apps. Keep reading to find the perfect app just for you!

What Is A Cash Advance?

A cash advance is a short term loan that provides quick access to money for emergency expenditures. It can be obtained from various sources, such as banks, credit card issuers, or cash advance apps discussed in this article.

The key features of cash advances include fast approval and disbursal processes, minimal documentation requirements, and typically higher interest rates than traditional loans.

They are designed for immediate financial needs rather than long-term solutions.

Types of Cash Advances

1. Credit Card Cash Advances: These advances allow you to withdraw cash from your credit card's available balance at an ATM or bank, usually at a higher interest rate than regular credit card purchases.
2. Payday Loans: Short-term loans borrowed against your next paycheck with high fees and interest rates.
3. Merchant Cash Advances: Businesses can access these advances based on their future revenue projections.

Pros and Cons of Cash Advances

Pros:

• Quick access to funds in emergency situations
• No collateral required
• Minimal documentation needed for approval

Cons:

• Higher interest rates compared to conventional loans
• Short repayment terms
• Potential for a negative impact on your credit score if not repaid timely

When considering a cash advance, it's crucial to assess your ability to repay the loan within the given repayment period and weigh the pros and cons against other options, such as personal loans or borrowing from friends and family.

Keep in mind that using cash advances repeatedly may lead to mounting debt and compound financial difficulties.

How Bad Credit Affects Your Cash Advances Application

When it comes to applying for cash advances, having bad credit can greatly impact your chances of approval. Here's how bad credit affects your cash advance application:

Impact on Application Approval

Lenders and financial institutions look at your credit score to assess the level of risk associated with lending you money. If you have a low credit score, you are considered a high risk borrower, which means lenders may be less likely to approve your cash advance application.

Limited Options

Bad credit may reduce the number of lenders willing to work with you. As a result, you are likely to have limited options when it comes to choosing a cash advance app or service. Furthermore, those that do cater specifically to bad credit borrowers may offer less favorable terms or fewer features.

Higher Interest Rates and Fees

Since lending money to someone with bad credit is associated with increased risk, lenders often compensate for this by charging higher interest rates and fees. This can make borrowing more expensive and further strain your finances.

Lower Borrowing Limits

Bad credit borrowers may also face lower borrowing limits due to their perceived inability to repay large amounts of debt. Consequently, potential borrowers might not get access to enough funds during an emergency.

Restrictions on Loan Terms

Lastly, people with bad credit might find themselves dealing with stricter repayment terms on their loans. These may include shorter repayment periods or additional clauses designed around the lender's risk management.

20 Best Cash Advance Apps For Bad Credit

When faced with a financial emergency, having a bad credit score can limit your options.

However, there is still hope! We've compiled a list of the 20 best cash advance apps for bad credit to help you navigate through tough times. Here's an overview of our top pick:

Bank	Unique Feature
1. MoneyLion	Offers a range of financial products including banking, investing, and credit building solutions.
2. Payactiv	Provides employees with early access to earned wages and financial wellness tools.
3. Chime	Fee-free mobile banking with early direct deposits and no hidden fees.
4. FundsJoy	Online lending platform offering short-term loans with fast approval process.
5. Dave	Overdraft protection, budgeting assistance, and automatic savings features for financial health.
6. Albert	Combines automated savings, no-fee banking, and investment guidance in one platform.
7. Cash Advance PLC	Short-term loans and payday advances with a quick online application process.
8. Gerald	Manages and tracks subscriptions and recurring payments, helping users save money.
9. Credit Genie	Helps users improve their credit scores, offering tips, guidance, and monitoring.
10. ZippyLoan	Online lending marketplace connecting borrowers and lenders for personal loans.
11. Earnin	Allows users to access their wages early with no fees or interest, for better cash flow.
12. Current	Banking app with spending insights, overdraft protection, and rewards for purchases.
13. Klover	Interest-free cash advances and money management tools to improve financial health.
14. MoneyMutual	Online lending marketplace for short-term loans and credit solutions for various needs.
15. VivaLoan	Personal loans for various purposes with flexible repayment terms and multiple lenders.
16. SoFi	Offers student loan refinancing, personal loans, and wealth management services.
17. Vola	Provides microloans and financial education tools to help users build credit and save.
18. Brigit	Overdraft protection, cash advances, and budgeting tools to help users stay financially afloat.
19. Empower	Financial management app, offering budgeting, banking, and access to personalized advice.
20. Hundy	Peer-to-peer lending platform, enabling users to borrow and lend money within their community.

1. MoneyLion: Best for multiple options

MoneyLion is designed to cater to various financial needs and comes with several features that make it one of the best cash advance apps for bad credit borrowers.

• Managed Investing: The app provides easy access to professionally managed portfolios tailored to your risk preferences and financial goals.
• Credit Builder Loans: MoneyLion offers loans up to $1,000 with competitive interest rates and flexible loan terms, helping you improve your credit score.
• Instacash Cash Advances: Access cash advances of up to $250 without interest or fees when you set up direct deposits in your MoneyLion account.

Choosing an app like MoneyLion, which offers multiple options to manage and improve your finances, can give you more confidence in dealing with unexpected expenses and emergencies even if you have a poor credit history.

2. Earnin: Best for earnings-based borrowing

Earnin is a unique cash advance app tailored to help users access their hard earned income before payday arrives. This app is specifically designed to empower its users in better managing their finances without any hidden charges or high interests.

• Access Earned Income: Earnin allows you to borrow up to $500 from your earned income any time before your payday. This helps you get access to funds when needed without having to wait until the next pay cycle.
• No Interest or Fees: Unlike most cash advance apps, Earnin does not charge interest or fees for accessing your earned income early. Instead, it lets you decide how much tip you'd like to give them for their service.

To use Earnin, simply follow these steps:

1. Download and Install the App: You can find Earnin in both the App Store and Google Play Store.
2. Set Up Your Account: Sign up with your personal information, including your employer details and bank account information.
3. Submit Timesheets or Connect Bank Account: If you're an hourly employee, upload photos of your timesheet; if you're salaried, connect the bank account where your paycheck gets deposited.
4. Calculate Your Earnings: Earnin will then calculate how much income you have earned based on your work hours or salary.
5. Request Cash Advance: Choose the amount you want to borrow from your earned income and get it transferred directly into your bank account.

With these simple steps, Earnin becomes an ideal option for those who need access to funds in between paychecks without worrying about any additional costs besides tipping as per their desire!

3. Chime: Best for overdraft protection

Chime is an innovative mobile app boasting a suite of features that benefit those with bad credit, particularly in providing overdraft protection.

With Chime's SpotMe feature and the convenience of early paychecks, it's no surprise why it ranks as one of the best cash advance apps for individuals with poor credit ratings.

• SpotMe Overdraft Protection: Chime's unique SpotMe feature helps users avoid hefty fees by offering fee free overdraft protection on up to $100 for eligible members. Essentially, this means that the next time you accidentally go over your account balance, Chime will spot you the difference interest free.
• Early Paycheck Access: By activating direct deposit with your Chime account, you can access your paycheck up to two days ahead of most traditional banks' schedule, which can be crucial when dealing with unexpected financial emergencies.

On top of these perks, Chime also offers user friendly tools like automatic savings options and real time transaction notifications to help you better manage and improve your financial situation.

Tailored to suit individuals with bad credit scores seeking financial security and flexibility, Chime is a powerful ally against overdraft fees and delayed paychecks!

4. Dave: Best for highest cash advance

When you find yourself in need of extra cash between paychecks, Dave can be your financial superhero. As one of the best cash advance apps for bad credit borrowers, Dave offers a credit building path as well as access to cash advances without interest or fees.

• Up to $200 Cash Advance: With Dave, you can borrow up to $200 when you need it the most. You won't have to worry about interest or fees because their goal is to help you manage your finances better.
• Automatic Budgeting Tools: The app's smart budgeting tools analyze your income and expenses, providing personalized recommendations to help you become more financially stable. These tools make it easier for you to prevent future overdrafts and build healthier financial habits.

But wait, there's more! Dave also offers:

• Paid Two Days Early: When you set up direct deposit through the app, you can get paid up to two business days earlier than your regular payday.
• Bank-Level Security: Your personal and financial information will always remain protected thanks to Dave's robust security measures.

Dave not only gets you access to a higher cash advance without the added burden of interest or fees, but also a comprehensive suite of tools that can guide you towards better control over your finances and improved credit scores.

5. FundsJoy: Best for bad credit personal loans

FundsJoy stands out as an excellent option for individuals with bad credit who are in need of personal loans. This app addresses borrowers' financial emergencies by providing easily accessible funds quickly and without the stress of extensive paperwork or credit checks.

• Flexible Borrowing Amounts: FundsJoy offers a wide borrowing range, allowing users to request amounts from $100 to $5,000, depending on their eligibility and income. This flexibility means you can borrow what you need to address the urgency at hand without overextending yourself.
• No Collateral Required: One of the key benefits of using FundsJoy is the no collateral requirement. You don't need to put your valuable assets on the line to secure your loan, making it more accessible for those with poor credit.
• Fast Approval Process: Forget about waiting around for days or weeks! FundsJoy understands that time sensitive financial emergencies need quick resolutions. Their simple and smooth application process allows users to receive decisions swiftly, which makes all the difference in accessing money when it's needed most.

FundsJoy is designed specifically for individuals with bad credit seeking a streamlined process that prioritizes borrowing within their means and speedy approvals.

Explore this app as a tailored solution for addressing financial necessities without having an impeccable credit score.

6. Albert: Best for no late fees

Dealing with financial emergencies can be challenging, especially when trying to avoid penalties and additional charges. That's where Albert, an innovative financial app designed to make money management effortless, comes into play.

Let's take a detailed look at why it's one of the best cash advance apps for bad credit borrowers who want to avoid late fees and penalties:

• Instant Cash Advance: Albert allows you to access an instant cash advance of up to $500 without any late fees, based on your projected income. This means you can get the funds you need quickly and not have to worry about facing penalties for missed or late payments.
• Smart Savings: The app also offers built in Smart Savings tools that help you build your emergency fund by automating your savings goals. With a buffer in place, you'll be better prepared to handle unexpected expenses without resorting to high interest loans or cash advances.
• Genius Financial Guidance: Albert comes with a feature called "Albert Genius," which provides personalized financial guidance from real human experts. This helps ensure that their advice is tailored specifically to your needs and goals, making it easier to improve your financial well being.

7. Cash Advance PLC: Payday loans

Cash Advance PLC is a reliable option for those looking for payday loans to bridge the gap between paychecks, especially when facing unexpected expenses or financial emergencies.

• Flexible Loan Amounts: Choose to borrow any amount from $100 to $1,000 depending on your specific financial needs and eligibility. This flexibility lets you avoid borrowing more than you need and accumulating unnecessary debt.
• Quick Processing: Getting access to urgent funds has never been this easy. The fast online application process at Cash Advance PLC allows you to get instant approval on your loan request, saving you the stress of a lengthy routine.
• Short-term Commitment: As these are payday loans, the repayment period typically lasts until your next payday. This short term obligation ensures that your financial struggles are resolved quickly and that you stay debt free in the long run.

Using an app like Cash Advance PLC helps manage short term financial problems while providing manageable loan amounts and a quick application process. It's a great cash advance app for bad credit borrowers seeking quick and easy solutions during difficult times.

8. Gerald: Cash advance app

Gerald is designed to help individuals with bad credit by providing an affordable solution for emergency cash needs. The app focuses on securing a financial safety net and preventing overdraft fees.

• Low-cost instant access to funds: Gerald offers instant access to funds based on your income – ensuring you won't struggle with compounding debt or suffer from high interest rates. The cash advance feature allows you to cover emergency expenses without the burden of traditional loans or lengthy approval processes.
• Reward system: To encourage users to save more, Gerald offers a unique reward system that helps you earn additional funds by saving. The more money you put into your savings account, the more rewards you unlock. This feature teaches healthy financial habits and promotes long term financial stability.

The Gerald cash advance app empowers users with low credit scores by providing quick access to cash and a reward system that promotes better saving practices. By using Gerald, you'll have an essential tool in conquering unexpected expenses while also working towards improving your financial situation over time.

9. Credit Genie: Credit builder app

Improving your credit score can be a tedious and time consuming process, but Credit Genie makes it easier with an app that aims to be your one stop shop for all things related to credit building.

• Credit Monitoring: Staying updated on your current credit situation is crucial, and Credit Genie monitors your score in real time, alerting you of any changes and ensuring you're always aware of your financial standing.
• Score Insights: The app pinpoints the factors affecting your score and provides personalized recommendations to help you improve it over time.
• Personalized Product Recommendations: Based on your profile, Credit Genie suggests suitable financial products like loans or credit cards that can help in building positive credit history.

Credit Genie stands out among other cash advance apps by offering fast access to cash advances tailored for bad credit borrowers.

This enables those with poor credit scores to cover unexpected expenses without further damaging their financial situation.

With this powerful mix of features, Credit Genie empowers users to proactively take control of their finances and work towards a better financial future.

10. ZippyLoan: Best for same-day funding

ZippyLoan, a popular cash advance app, is well known for its ability to provide same day funding when you need cash immediately. Even if your credit score isn't the best, ZippyLoan has a solution tailored just for you.

• Fast and Easy Online Application: As soon as you visit the site, you can fill out ZippyLoan's simple application form. It only takes a few minutes to apply and provide the necessary information.
• Quick Approval: ZippyLoan values your time; hence their approval process is designed to be fast and efficient. If everything goes smoothly, you can get approved within hours of applying.
• Same-Day Funding: Once your loan request is approved, ZippyLoan will deposit the funds into your bank account on the same day or within 24 hours. This allows borrowers to pay their urgent bills or handle unforeseen expenses without delay.

ZippyLoan's access to multiple lenders also plays a significant role in offering competitive rates. Instead of relying on one lender with fixed interest rates, borrowers can benefit from a network of lenders competing to offer them lower interest rates.

ZippyLoan makes it convenient for borrowers with bad credit to access funds quickly and at an affordable cost when they need it the most. Their straightforward application process and swift approval system ensure that you have one less thing to worry about during a financial emergency.

11. Payactiv: Best for short-term loans

Payactiv is an innovative cash advance app designed to help users access their earned wages before payday. This app is particularly beneficial for individuals with bad credit scores seeking short-term loans to meet urgent financial needs. Here's everything you need to know about Payactiv:

• Earned Wage Access: With Payactiv, you can get up to 50% of your already earned wages ahead of your paycheck. This feature ensures that you have immediate access to your own money in times of emergency without waiting for payday.
• Free Financial Coaching and Budgeting Tools: The app provides various resources to help you improve your financial health, including free financial coaching, customized budgeting tools, and practical tips on saving and debt management.

Gaining early access to your own earnings through Payactiv, you can avoid expensive loans and predatory lenders, which is essential for someone with a low credit score.

The app's comprehensive suite of financial management tools will set you on the path toward greater financial stability and security.

12. Current: Best for checking and spending

Leveraging technology to make banking more accessible and user friendly, Current is a modern solution for managing your finances, even with a bad credit score.

Offering robust features centered around checking accounts and spending, Current ensures that you get the most out of your money.

• Early Direct Deposits: By setting up direct deposits within the Current app, you can gain access to your paycheck up to two days early. This feature provides peace of mind by giving you quicker access to cash when facing unexpected financial needs.
• Cashback Rewards: Benefit from cashback rewards on everyday purchases you make through the app. With no limit on earnings, this feature helps you save money and make your dollar stretch further.

In addition to these key offerings, Current boasts several other advantageous features:

1. No Hidden Fees: There are no maintenance or overdraft fees associated with a Current Premium account.
2. Customizable saving goals: Set up individual savings pods within the app to meet specific goals while staying organized and on track.
3. Instant Gas Hold Refunds: Those with premium accounts avoid waiting days for gas station holds to be released back into their accounts.
4. Dedicated Support: Receive quick assistance from customer support either via chat or phone call.

Current seamlessly combines innovative banking technology with traditional transactional services, creating an ideal financial management platform tailored for individuals with bad credit scores looking for a one stop solution that meets all their banking needs!

13. Klover: Best for no-fee advances

Klover is a popular app among users with bad credit because it offers a hassle free solution to access short-term financial support.

This cash advance app stands out because of its no fee and interest free advances, making it simple and affordable for those in need of a little extra help between paychecks.

• No-fee Cash Advances: As a Klover user, you can receive up to $250 without concerns about fees or interest. This feature makes managing unexpected expenses significantly easier and less stressful.
• Automatic Repayments: One advantage of using Klover is the convenience of repayment. The amount advanced is automatically deducted from your next paycheck, ensuring timely repayments and helping you avoid any additional debt accumulation.
• Safety Net Feature: Klover also offers a unique feature called “Safety Net” that allows you to set aside small amounts from each paycheck into an emergency fund. This helps build financial security over time and reduces reliance on cash advances.

Klover stands out as one of the best cash advance apps for borrowers with bad credit due to its emphasis on affordability, transparency, and user friendly repayment system. By utilizing this app, you can take control of your finances without feeling burdened by high fees or confusing terms.

14. MoneyMutual: Best for bad credit loans

If you have a low credit score and need urgent financial assistance, MoneyMutual could be the answer you're looking for. This platform specializes in helping people with bad credit find short term loans from a network of lenders.

• Loan Amounts: MoneyMutual offers loans of up to $2,500, depending on your eligibility and needs. With a wide range of loan amounts available, you have the flexibility to choose the loan size best suited to your situation.
• Network of Lenders: The platform connects borrowers with lenders who specifically cater to individuals with bad credit. This not only improves your chances of approval but also helps match you with the right lending solutions.
• Simple Online Application Process: To apply for a loan through MoneyMutual, simply fill out an online form, providing details such as your employment status, income, and requested loan amount. The platform quickly processes the application and connects you with potential lenders if approved.
• Fast Approval Rates: With MoneyMutual's simplified application process and wide network of lenders, many users can receive approval responses in a matter of minutes.

15. VivaLoan: Best cash advance alternative to payday loans

VivaLoan offers a better and more flexible alternative to traditional payday loans for those with less than perfect credit scores. This platform aims to help borrowers meet their short-term financial needs while providing accessible solutions for people with bad credit.

• Borrowing Range: With VivaLoan, you can borrow from as little as $100 up to $15,000 depending on your eligibility and personal financial circumstances. This wide borrowing range offers versatility, allowing you to cover anything from small, unexpected expenses to significant financial obligations.
• Fast Approval Process: Time is often vital when dealing with emergencies, and VivaLoan understands that urgency. The application process is quick and user friendly, enabling bad credit borrowers to get the funds they need faster than with traditional payday lenders.
• Flexible Loan Terms & Payment Plans: One of the standout features of VivaLoan is its adaptable repayment terms. Borrowers can customize their repayment plans according to their financial capacity, ensuring manageable installments without adding stress or burden.

As a reliable cash advance alternative to payday loans, VivaLoan is focused on providing efficient financial assistance to address short term needs for individuals with bad credit.

By offering competitive rates and flexible loan terms in an easy to navigate platform, VivaLoan enables borrowers to regain control over their finances without further damaging their credit score.

16. SoFi: Best for high credit scores

While our primary focus is on cash advance apps catering to bad credit, it's essential to mention SoFi as a viable option for those with higher credit scores.

SoFi stands out for its competitive interest rates on personal loans and diverse financial products that can help you with various borrowing needs.

• Competitive Interest Rates: SoFi offers low interest personal loans, which can save you money in the long run, especially if you have a good credit score. These loans can be used for consolidating high interest debt, funding home improvement projects, or other personal expenses.
• Flexible Loan Terms: You can choose from various loan terms that best match your repayment abilities and financial goals. This flexibility gives you more control over your monthly payments and total loan cost.
• Other Financial Products: Apart from personal loans, SoFi also provides other financial services such as student loan refinancing, home loans, and investment options. This variety of offerings enables users to create a comprehensive financial plan with a single service provider.
• Unemployment Protection: SoFi has a unique feature where if you lose your job involuntarily while repaying your loan, they will temporarily pause your payments and even assist with job placement support.

17. Vola: Best for same-day cash advances of up to $300

Vola is a mobile app specifically designed to provide users with access to cash advances of up to $300, making it ideal for those facing short-term financial challenges or unexpected expenses. When using Vola, users can enjoy the following features:

• Quick Access to Funds: Upon approval, eligible users can get their cash advance instantly, ensuring they can cover emergency expenses without any delays.
• Minimal Fees: Vola offers low usage fees based on your loan amount and repayment term, making it an affordable option for cash advances in comparison to alternatives like payday loans.
• Financial Education Tools: The app is not just limited to providing fast cash; Vola also offers a variety of educational tools within the app itself. These resources include articles, quizzes, and videos designed to help you improve your financial literacy and develop better money management habits.

18. Brigit: Best for same-day loans

Brigit is a popular cash advance app that specifically caters to individuals in need of immediate financial assistance.

With its user friendly interface and efficient services, Brigit has become a go to option for many people with bad credit looking for short-term loans.

• Access up to $250 instantly once approved: After downloading the Brigit app and signing up, you can quickly apply for a loan of up to $250. Upon approval, the funds are immediately transferred to your account, granting you instant access to much needed cash without any delays.
• No interest or hidden fees: Brigit stands out from other cash advance apps as it doesn't charge any interest or hidden fees on the borrowed amount. The subscription service costs $9.99 per month but offers additional features such as balance alerts and automatic repayments.

Not only does Brigit provide swift financial support when you need it the most, but it also ensures complete transparency throughout the process.

For individuals with bad credit scores who need an emergency same day loan without worrying about unmanageable interest rates, Brigit is an optimal choice.

19. Empower: Best for quick cash advances

Empower is a versatile app that provides a healthy mix of financial features to help users manage and improve their finances, even with a not so great credit history. Its quick cash advance feature is just one aspect of the many benefits it offers.

• Advances up to $250: Empower enables users to access cash advances of up to $250 without the need for credit checks, making it perfect for those with bad credit who require instant assistance during emergencies.
• AI-driven budgeting tools: Besides assisting you with cash advances, Empower's innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology automates budgeting and identifies areas where you can save money by analyzing your spending habits.
• AutoSave: The app also offers an AutoSave feature that sets aside a small amount of money every month from your account, making it easier to build your emergency fund or save up for future expenses like vacations or special occasions.
• No hidden fees: With Empower, there are no hidden fees or charges on the cash advances – providing you with more peace of mind as you tackle your financial needs.

With Empower, users get access to the ideal combination of short term financial assistance and long term financial planning tools.

It's not just about finding quick solutions, but also fostering healthier monetary habits rebuilding your credit score and improving overall financial stability despite any prior setbacks.

20. Hundy: Instant cash advances

Hundy offers a friendly and easy to use solution to getting fast financial help when you need it the most. As one of the best cash advance apps for bad credit, Hundy provides instant cash advances through their peer to peer lending platform.

• Peer-to-peer lending: Unlike traditional banks or financial institutions, Hundy connects borrowers directly with lenders within the app. This presents an opportunity for individuals with bad credit to access funds up to $1,000 without dealing with conventional banks that might reject their application.
• Build credit history: Hundy's unique features not only assist you in getting the funds you need but also help in rebuilding your credit score. By making on time repayments for the borrowed money, you demonstrate your commitment to improving your financial habits. As a result, Hundy reports these positive activities to major credit bureaus, which can contribute to a better credit history.

FAQs

Conclusion

Finding the best cash advance apps for bad credit can be a lifesaver during stressful financial situations. By exploring the options mentioned in this blog, you can access the funds you need even with a poor credit history. Many of these apps not only provide cash advances but also offer tools and features to help rebuild your credit score over time.

Taking control of your finances and managing emergencies becomes easier with the right support from these apps specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals with low credit scores. Remember to always borrow responsibly and aim to improve financial habits for a better future.