Best for getting cash the fastest
Top pick
Best paycheck advance — zero fees
No fees
Best AI-powered budgeting + advances
AI-powered
Best for automatic cash advances
Auto-advance
Best for larger advances up to $500
High limitBest debt relief — reduce debt 30-50%
Best Debt ReliefEmpower is a financial services company providing cash advances of up to $250 without credit checks or interest.
However, accessing these advances requires an $8 monthly fee. This fee includes standard bank transfers, which can take two to five days. For quicker access, instant transfers are available but come with an extra cost of $1 to $8, unless you hold an Empower Card.
While Empower is popular, it's not the only option for cash advances. There are similar apps like Empower that offer larger advance amounts, lower fees, and extra perks like free overdraft protection, potentially leading to more savings for you.
Apps like Empower to Consider
1. Albert
Here’s the lowdown on Albert: it's like Empower in that it helps you manage your money, save automatically, and even invest if you're into that.
But Albert has a game-changing edge: its Genius feature. For just $14.99 per month (comes with a 30-day free trial), you get real, human financial advice via text—think of it as your personal money coach in your pocket.
It also doesn’t charge overdraft fees, unlike some apps that nickel-and-dime you. Plus, Albert gives you instant cash advances up to $1,000 without interest or credit checks.
Empower has similar cash advances, but Albert’s simplicity and no-guilt approach to fees make it stand out. Straight up, if you hate dealing with fees or need a quick advance without the hassle, Albert is clutch.
Its savings tools are also next-level. Albert automatically sets aside small amounts of cash based on your spending habits, helping you build up a rainy-day fund without feeling the pinch.
If you're serious about leveling up your finances but want something low-maintenance and intuitive, Albert is the real deal—no fluff, just results.
- Borrow up to $1,000 with no interest
- 30 day trial, then $14.99/month
- Automatically sets money aside for savings
- Access budgeting tools and investing features in one place
Where to get it?
2. MoneyLion
MoneyLion is like Empower with its all-in-one financial tools, offering cash advances, automated savings, and investment options.
But where it shines is its RoarMoney checking account and access to up to $500 in cash advances, and you do not need to pay a monthly fee to access this service.
What sets MoneyLion apart is its credit builder loans, available with a $19.99 monthly membership that also includes credit monitoring.
Add in cashback rewards and financial tracking tools, and you've got a solid app for managing money and boosting your financial health without breaking the bank.
- Instantly access up to $500 with no interest
- Includes a RoarMoney checking account
- Build credit with low-risk credit builder loans
- Earn cashback on everyday purchases
Where to get it?
3. Cleo
Cleo is like Empower with its budgeting tools and instant cash advances, but it adds a lot more personality.
The app is AI-powered, so you get snarky but helpful financial advice and encouragement, plus up to $250 in instant cash advances for $5.99/month with Cleo Plus.
What makes Cleo stand out is its Focus on fun and engagement, like personalized savings challenges and roasting your spending habits to keep you on track.
It’s a great pick if you want solid money management tools with a side of humor and low-pressure, affordable fees.
- Get up to $250 without credit checks
- Chat with an AI that helps you budget and roast your spending
- Automatically tracks and breaks down your expenses
- Fun, no-pressure way to manage your money
Where to get it?
*First timers can usually qualify for $20 to $70 to start with. Once you pay it back you'll unlock higher amounts up to $250.
4. Brigit
Brigit is like Empower with its cash advances and financial tracking but keeps things straightforward and budget-friendly.
For $9.99/month, you can get up to $500 in instant cash advances with no interest, late fees, or credit checks—perfect for quick help between paychecks.
What makes Brigit different is its credit builder feature, which helps you improve your credit while automating savings and budgeting.
It’s simple, reliable, and focuses on keeping your finances stable without the bells and whistles.
- Access between $25 - $500 in Instant Cash with no interest
- Built-in alerts to prevent overdrafts
- No FICO needed
Where to get it?
Who Should Use These Apps?
Choosing the right app depends on your financial goals and lifestyle. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Albert: Ideal for people who want a personal touch with their finances. If you’re looking for real human advice, automatic savings, and no overdraft fees, Albert is an excellent all-around choice.
- Brigit: Best for anyone living paycheck to paycheck who needs a reliable safety net. If you’re looking for quick cash advances and a simple way to improve your credit, Brigit is a great pick.
- Cleo: Perfect for those who want budgeting tools with a fun twist. If you enjoy interactive, snarky financial advice and want an app that makes saving money feel less boring, Cleo is for you.
- MoneyLion: Great for users who want a full suite of financial tools, including credit-building loans and advanced banking features. If you’re focused on improving your credit, getting higher cash advances, and earning cashback, MoneyLion has you covered.
Each of these apps caters to different needs, so think about what matters most to you before diving in!
FAQs
If you need a quick cash advance, Albert and MoneyLion offer higher limits (up to $250 and $500 respectively). Brigit is also reliable for smaller advances up to $500, while Cleo is best for lower amounts (up to $250).
Yes! Brigit and MoneyLion stand out for their credit-building features. MoneyLion’s Credit Builder Plus offers loans to boost your credit, while Brigit has tools to automate savings and improve your credit score over time.
Cleo and Brigit are the most affordable, with Cleo starting at $5.99/month and Brigit at $9.99/month. Albert’s fee is flexible ($14.99 and up), and MoneyLion’s basic features are free, but premium services like credit building cost extra.
Apps Like Empower Can Help
When it comes to managing your money, apps like Brigit, Cleo, Albert, and MoneyLion each offer unique strengths tailored to different needs. Whether you’re looking for quick cash advances, credit-building tools, or engaging budgeting features, there’s an app to match your style. The right pick depends on what you value most—affordability, simplicity, or an all-in-one financial solution. No matter which one you choose, these apps can help you take control of your finances without the hassle.