Cash Advance Apps Like MoneyLion – Best 23 Apps Similar to MoneyLion

The digital transformation has paved the way for a new era of personal finance—one where instant access, zero hidden fees, and financial empowerment are the norm. 

MoneyLion’s all-in-one approach to cash advances, credit building, budgeting, and investing has made it a favorite among users craving speed, flexibility, and control. 

Yet, as needs evolve and the demand for tailored features grows, many turn to alternative cash advance apps like MoneyLion to find the best balance of fast cash, transparency, and financial tools.

This in-depth guide digs into the 23 best cash advance apps like MoneyLion and you’ll also learn what sets MoneyLion apart, plus find a clear pros and cons comparison for each app—making it easy to discover which platform matches your lifestyle and financial goals.

What is MoneyLion?

MoneyLion is an all-in-one financial app offering instant cash advances, credit monitoring, personal loans, automated investing, and digital banking—no hidden fees, and no complicated forms. 

Users can access up to $500 instantly with Instacash, build credit with affordable loans, and track budgets seamlessly within a single, intuitive platform.

MoneyLion has become one of the go-to cash advance apps like MoneyLion, thanks to its blend of financial management tools and flexible, fast lending without the need for hard credit checks or steep interest charges.

23 Best Cash Advance Apps Like MoneyLion

1. Beem

Beem leads the pack of cash advance apps like MoneyLion by merging instant Everdraft™ cash advances (up to $1,000) with a suite of extras—free credit monitoring, insurance, and customizable budgeting tools—without a credit check, interest, or strict due dates. 

Fast funding, 24/7 access, and cashback perks make Beem the ideal financial backup for anyone who wants both emergency cash and a path to stronger money health.

Pros	Cons
Lightning-fast access to funds	Maximum advances are based on account history
No credit check, no hidden fees	Subscription may be required for premium features
Includes budgeting tools and financial education	Instant funding sometimes carries a small express fee
Add-ons like insurance and free credit checks	Not all banking partners support every feature

2. Payactiv

Payactiv is one of the standout cash advance apps like MoneyLion for workers whose employers offer it as a benefit.

Users can draw from already-earned wages before payday, pay bills, transfer funds, budget, and access financial wellness resources all within the app’s secure environment.

It’s an excellent tool for employees looking for control and flexibility over when and how they get paid.

Pros	Cons
Access a portion of earned wages anytime	Limited to participating employers
Integrated bill pay and savings features	Advance caps may be lower than some competitors
No credit checks or interest	May have small transaction or express funding fees
FDIC-insured pay card for added security	Cash advances are only for wages already earned

3. Empower

Empower is a top cash advance apps like MoneyLion that provides up to $400 instantly, along with a rewards debit card, automated savings, and spending alerts.

It stands apart for its personal finance AI, which analyzes your cash flow and suggests smarter spending. Its digital-first design, rapid funding, and seamless navigation make Empower an easy fit for users seeking both instant cash and hands-on money management.

Pros	Cons
Fast, no-fee advances	Subscription required for some features
Personalized financial insights	Smaller cash advances for new users
Rewards debit card with cash-back	Express fees apply for instant transfer
Simple application and eligibility process	Not all banks integrate instantly

4. Earnin

Earnin is famous among cash advance apps like MoneyLion for its fee-free, tip-based model: borrow up to $750 of already-earned wages, pay what you want for service, and enjoy features like overdraft protection and balance alerts. 

Earnin works well for those with predictable direct deposits and is especially valued for its transparency and speed.

Pros	Cons
No mandatory fees or interest	Requires regular, predictable direct deposits
Instant delivery option for small fee	Limited to $100–$150/day, $750/pay period for most
Overdraft prevention via Balance Shield	Sometimes delays if payroll isn’t consistent
Simple setup, user-friendly interface	Tipping may pressure some users

5. Varo

Varo Bank competes with the best cash advance apps like MoneyLion by offering up to $250 in instant advances, early direct deposit, fee-free overdraft, and robust savings rates.

Its modern app design, focus on credit-building, and digital-first banking tools make Varo a great all-around choice for users seeking financial empowerment without traditional bank hassles.

Pros	Cons
No monthly fees or minimums	Advance limits may be low for new customers
High-yield savings and credit-builder card	Requires consistent direct deposit
Fast deposits and intuitive financial planning	Some features limited by account eligibility
Seamless, mobile-first experience	Advance features only for eligible users

6. MoneyLion

As one of the most recognized cash advance apps, this original stands out for blending Instacash advances (up to $500), automated investing, personal loans, and in-depth credit monitoring. 

Its seamless app experience combines budgeting, credit tools, and even cashback rewards—making it a one-stop shop for those who want everyday banking, borrowing, and building in a single platform.

Pros	Cons
High instant advance limits	Some premium features require subscription
Automatic investing, credit tracking, and loans integrated	New users may have lower initial advance limit
Fast, user-friendly mobile app	Limits are based on income/deposit history
Multiple shortcuts to improve financial health	Instant transfers require qualified linked account

7. Brigit

Brigit is well-known among cash advance apps like MoneyLion for predictive budget tools, real-time notifications, and advances up to $250. 

It uniquely helps users avoid overdraft, discover side gigs, and build credit through its integrated builder tool—all on a clear, subscription-based pricing model.

Pros	Cons
Credit Builder included in subscription	$9.99/month for full features
Predictive budgeting and expense alerts	Limits on initial cash advance
Fast approvals and easy top-ups	Not everyone is eligible for credit builder
Early warnings for bill payment risk	Standard transfer times can take 1–2 days

8. DailyPay

Within the realm of cash advance apps like MoneyLion, DailyPay shines for hourly and gig workers whose employers participate. 

Access your paycheck as soon as you’ve earned it, move funds instantly, and avoid costly payday loans. Its payroll integration makes it an essential resource for anyone who needs flexibility between pay cycles.

Pros	Cons
Access any portion of earned wages daily	Only available via partner employers
No credit check, and funds move instantly	Fees may apply for instant transfers
Built-in savings tools and tracking	Limited control for freelance or gig work
Reliable for fast, scheduled pay	Advance only up to wages already earned

9. Albert

Albert is more than a cash advance app like MoneyLion—it’s a financial wellness hub combining up to $250 advances, automated savings, investment management, and expert financial advice. 

With the “Albert Genius” subscription, users can chat with real human advisors about goals, debts, or savings strategies—all while accessing fee-free advances and smart budgeting tools.

Pros	Cons
Connects banking, saving, and investing	Genius subscription unlocks most features
Advance eligibility based on account health	Customer support prioritizes Genius users
Fast advance delivery (typically 2–3 hours)	Advances start low and build over time
Real-time notifications and coaching	Tips encouraged for some services

10. Chime

Chime stands out among cash advance apps like MoneyLion with its SpotMe feature—offering up to $200 in fee-free overdraft. It combines digital banking with early direct deposit, robust savings, credit-building tools, and a frictionless mobile app. 

SpotMe coverage and seamless experience make Chime a go-to for cash advances plus everyday banking.

Pros	Cons
No overdraft, maintenance, or hidden fees	Direct deposit required for SpotMe, advances
Early paycheck access	Overdraft cap starts low, rises over time
Sleek mobile interface and notifications	Some locations/features limited by eligibility
Strong security and user support	Cash advances limited for some account types

11. PockBox

PockBox carves a niche among cash advance apps like MoneyLion by connecting users to up to 50 online lenders, aggregating personal loan offers between $100 and $2,500. 

Its rapid, single-form application and instant decision-making ensure users can compare rates and terms without visiting multiple sites, maximizing choice and transparency.

Pros	Cons
Access to dozens of lenders instantly	Not a direct lender—matches offers
Easy, fast one-form application	Some lenders may perform hard credit check
Customizable loan amounts from $100–$2,500	APRs and fees vary widely between lenders
Compare multiple terms and offers at once	Approval not guaranteed for all users

12. Branch

Branch excels among cash advance apps like MoneyLion, specializing in advances for gig economy and hourly workers. Users can cash out up to 50% of their earned wages for free, manage schedules and expenses, and monitor budgeting—all in one mobile dashboard.

Pros	Cons
Free advances up to 50% of earned wages	Requires participation by employer/gig platform
No credit checks or interest	Not all businesses support Branch
Built-in work management and expense tracking	Advance limits based on shifts worked
Real-time banking and instant payments	Funding times depend on payroll integration

13. Loan Solo

Loan Solo is a cash advance app like MoneyLion that facilitates safe, fast connections between users and hundreds of lenders. Advance options range from $100 to $1,000, making it easy to find emergency funding with a straightforward, mobile-based application process.

Pros	Cons
Vast network of lending partners	Not a direct lender
Instant application and offers	Approval requirements vary per lender
No upfront fees or hidden charges	Rates and fees are lender-dependent
Safe, secure user experience	Funds usually delivered next business day

14. Axos Bank

Axos stands out within cash advance apps like MoneyLion for its hybrid approach: enjoy digital-only checking and savings with no monthly fees, robust high-yield savings, instant funds transfers, and a marketplace of loan products. Axos also specializes in seamless bill pay and customizable financial insights.

Pros	Cons
Highly customizable digital accounts	Full advances limited to eligible account types
Top-tier mobile features and security	Savings APYs fluctuate with market
Diverse selection of banking and loan products	Approval required for loan/cash advance
Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements	No physical branches

15. FloatMe – Fast Cash Advance App

FloatMe is a minimalist cash advance app like MoneyLion focusing on subscription-based, small-dollar advances of up to $100.

It provides advance tracking, overdraft prediction, and smart alerts to help users stay on top of cash shortages, and it’s especially effective for students, freelancers, and anyone prone to overdraft.

Pros	Cons
No credit check, no interest	$1.99–$2.99/month subscription
Streamlined eligibility and rapid delivery	Maximum advances are small initially
Overdraft and balance tracking	No budgeting or investing tools
Fast, predictable account monitoring	Repayment due automatically with next deposit

16. PocketGuard

PocketGuard adds another layer of clarity among cash advance apps like MoneyLion by helping users analyze all financial life in one dashboard. While primarily a budgeting tool, it links to bank and credit card accounts, helps users optimize spending, track bills, and discover money they didn’t know they had—freeing up cash before a real advance is even needed.

PocketGuard Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Powerful budgeting and bill tracking	Limited direct cash advance options
Links all accounts for quick financial overview	True advances must be sourced externally
Helps find extra money to free up cash	Some features require premium upgrade
“In My Pocket” feature simplifies what you have to spend	Lacks instant lending when emergencies arise

17. Gerald

Gerald sits among cash advance apps like MoneyLion for its mission to help users avoid costly overdraft fees and late payments. Its instant advances (up to $200 for eligible users) come with an integrated buy-now-pay-later tool, bill payment automation, and smart financial alerts.

Pros	Cons
Free and fast advances for eligible accounts	Advance caps may be lower for new users
Integrated bill pay and BNPL functions	Limits based on account history
Overdraft and late fee notifications	Not all users will qualify
Simple interface and reliable automated payments	Customer support can be slow

18. Grid Money

Grid Money is one of the newest cash advance apps like MoneyLion, targeting gig workers with advances up to $200, flexible repayment, and digital banking. It combines instant funding with a Visa debit card, direct deposit, and a feature-rich dashboard for complete financial control.

Pros	Cons
Advances for gig and hourly workers	Only available to Grid cardholders
Fast funding tied to direct deposit	Starting advance limits may be low
Debit card, banking, and budgeting in one place	Insufficient account history may limit approval
Sleek user interface and analytics	Some advanced features in premium plan

19. Possible Finance: Fast Cash & Credit

Possible Finance is a unique credit-building platform among cash advance apps like MoneyLion. It replaces traditional short-term advances with small installment loans that report each payment to the major credit bureaus, helping users grow their score and get out of the payday loan trap.

Possible Finance: Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
No hard credit checks	Interest and fees are higher than basic advances
Payments reported to all major credit bureaus	Installment format, not single-advance
Builds credit safely over time	Lower borrowing limits for some users
24/7 access to approval and instant funds	Not a direct cash advance; scheduled payments

20. Rain Instant Pay

Rain Instant Pay makes the list of top cash advance apps like MoneyLion for its ability to instantly send out earned wages, so users get paid on their terms. This employer-integrated platform gives hourly and gig workers full control of their cash flow, slashing the delays of traditional payroll.

Rain Instant Pay: Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Employers enable real-time wage access	Only available through partner businesses
Fast funds 24/7	Max advances tied to earned but unpaid wages
Predictable, flat fees	Some workplaces still on traditional payroll timing
No interest, no credit check	Funds advance is capped by net earnings

21. Zirtue: Lend & Borrow Money

Zirtue is a peer-to-peer lending platform among cash advance apps like MoneyLion, simplifying loans between family, friends, or colleagues. Structured terms safeguard relationships and automate repayment, offering an innovative alternative to apps relying on institutional funding.

Pros	Cons
Safe, formalized personal loans	Relies on social/family willingness
Streamlined documentation and automated repayment	Not for true emergency needs if network unavailable
Flexible terms and interest settings	Loans may not always be instant
Builds trust and credit with close contacts	Repayment depends on social agreement

22. Stash: Investing made easy

Stash is a standout among cash advance apps like MoneyLion thanks to its focus on both spending power and wealth-building. With Stash, users can access a mobile bank account with a debit card, early payday, automatic saving, and round-up investing into fractional stocks or ETFs, all from the same dashboard.

While Stash doesn’t provide conventional cash advances, its overdraft protection and “instant available cash” when you sell investments give users a cash-flow solution paired with powerful, long-term financial tools.

Pros	Cons
One app for banking, saving, and investing	Cash advance options are indirect
Fractional investing and goal tracking	Monthly subscription for banking/invest
Early payday and automatic saving	Overdraft/cash access based on portfolio
Debit card with rewards	Funds not as instant as some competitors

23. Cash App

Cash App is widely used for instant peer-to-peer payments, but is quickly emerging as one of the cash advance apps like MoneyLion through its recent borrow feature. Qualified users can draw up to $200, enjoy instant transfers, Bitcoin trading, direct deposit, and a personalized debit card—all in a user-friendly app.

Pros	Cons
Instant cash access and direct peer transfers	Borrow feature not available to all users
Modern debit card, direct deposit, and investing	Advance limits scale with activity
Easy to send money between users	Loan fees and repayments are auto-scheduled
Small advances bridge gaps without paperwork	Occasional delays due to verification

What to Consider When Choosing Cash Advance Apps Like MoneyLion

• Advance Limits & Fees: How much can you borrow, and what will you pay?
  
• Funding Speed: Do you need cash now, or can you wait an extra day?
  
• Eligibility & Repayment: Is steady income or direct deposit required? How are repayments handled?
  
• Extra Features: Do you value credit building, investing, or budgeting tools?
  
• User Support & Security: Is the app secure, nicely rated, and responsive if you need help?
  
• Transparency: Are all terms—fees, eligibility, overdraft rules—clear from the start?

Cash Advance Apps Like MoneyLion: Quick Comparison Table

App Name	Max Advance	Credit Check	Funding	Best Features	Best For
Beem	$1,000	No	Instant	Everdraft™, tools, insurance	All-in-one
Payactiv	Varies	No	Same day	Wage access, wellness	Employees
Empower	$250	No	Instant	AI, budgeting, rewards card	Smart banking
Earnin	$750/period	No	Instant	Tip-based, overdraft alerts	Salary workers
Varo	$250	No	Instant	Early pay, overdraft	Digital savings
MoneyLion	$500	No	Instant	Investing, credit, rewards	All-in-one users
Brigit	$250	No	1–2 days	Credit build, budgeting	Financial health
DailyPay	Varies	No	Same day	Employer-integrated	Hourly/gig work
Albert	$250	No	Hours	Genius advice, save, invest	Coaching
Chime	$200	No	Immediate	Overdraft, early pay	Neobank fans
PockBox	$100–$2,500	Soft/hard	1–2 days	Multiple lenders, big range	Loan comparers
Branch	50% of earned	No	Same day	Free, gig focus	Shift workers
Loan Solo	$1,000	Soft/hard	Next day	Lender network, instant	Quick loans
Axos	Varies	Soft	1-2 days	High-yield, digital bank	Savers, spenders
FloatMe	$100	No	1–2 hours	Overdraft protection	Subscription fans
PocketGuard	N/A	N/A	N/A	Budgeting, tracking	Spending control
Gerald	$200	No	1–2 days	BNPL, bill pay, alerts	Bill avoiders
Grid Money	$200	No	Instant	Gig advances, digital bank	Gig workers
Possible Finance	$500	No	1–2 days	Credit building, installment	Score boosters
Rain Instant Pay	Up to earned	No	Instant	Employer wage, fee control	Payroll on demand
Zirtue	Varies	Social/net	Agreed term	P2P, trust, automated repay	Family, friends
Stash	Indirect via overdraft cover or “instant available cash” after selling investments (typically $50–$200, varies by user and activity)	No	Same day for available cash after investment sale; direct deposit available for paychecks	One-stop app for banking, early payday, debit card with rewards, automatic saving, round-up investing, portfolio building, and fractional stock/ETF purchases	Users seeking a blend of digital banking, cash management, and investing in a single app; ideal for those wanting to save and invest their spare cash while still having flexible access when needed
Cash App	$200	No	Instant	P2P, investing, debit card	Everyday use

Frequently Asked Questions About Apps Similar to Moneylion

Key Takeaways

The world of cash advance apps like MoneyLion is full of powerful tools—putting faster cash, smarter budgeting, credit growth, and even social or employer-backed features in your hand. 

Start with Beem for flexible limits and instant funding, or branch out to find the perfect match for income type, financial habits, and money goals. Use these apps responsibly, see them as a backup when you’re in a pinch, and let them help build real financial freedom—not just cover today’s bills.