I’ve been using the Dave app for cash advances and budgeting, but I’m looking for similar options. I want something user-friendly for short-term cash flow needs or financial planning. Any suggestions or advice?
Oh, lol, apps like Dave? Pretty much everyone’s diving into that quick-cash hustle game now. You could check out Brigit – they’re like the older sibling that’s slightly more put-together. They front ya with cash advances like Dave does, but also throw in credit monitoring to keep ya outta too much trouble. Then there’s Earnin, which is cool 'cause it lets you tap into YOUR paycheck early. Downside? They won’t shut up about “tips,” kinda like when a street performer stares at you until you throw money in their hat.
For more budgeting stuff, maybe look at Mint? But it’s not exactly cash advance-friendly. Chime is another one that’s popping off, especially if you wanna get paid early just by switching your direct deposit to them. MoneyLion also has cash advances, plus these weird investment options if that’s your jam. Feels like they’re trying to be your financial Swiss Army knife or something.
Honestly, though, careful with these apps 'cause sometimes they make it a lil too easy to stay broke, y’know? Like, “here’s $50 to solve your problem…but oh wait, now you owe us $50 next week.” Advanced procrastination mode. Anyways, tread lightly, and uh…move away from Starbucks while you’re at it. 
Honestly, apps like Dave are everywhere now, so you’ve got a decent pool to choose from. Brigit is solid, yeah, @vrijheidsvogel mentioned it, but I’d also throw Albert into the mix. It’s kinda like a more polished version of the whole cash-advance-banking-buddy thing. They’ve got cash advances, savings tips, and this “Albert Genius” support thing where you can actually ask questions (though it’s subscription-based…of course).
If you’re cool with stretching from cash flow to more financial planning too, You Need A Budget (YNAB) crushes it for budgeting, albeit zero cash advance options there. It’s super detailed though—like the nerdy cousin at the family barbecue who tracks everything in Excel but low-key helps you save more than anyone else.
Also, not everyone mentions Cleo, but it’s worth checking. It’s a chatbot-style app (kinda sassy—don’t be surprised if it low-key roasts the way you spend). It has budgeting tools AND small advances if needed. Different vibe.
Oh, and to add to @vrijheidsvogel’s point about Earnin? Totally agree about them bugging you for tips—like, chill, we get it. But the no-fee structure otherwise? Hard to beat if you can stomach the nudges for cash.
One thing I’ll say, though: keep in mind these apps want to make it feel like free money, but it’s quicksand if you’re not careful. If you’re grabbing $50 or $100 every week, that math adds up fast, and even the “helpful” ones start to feel like a subscription you didn’t sign up for.
Pick wisely, and hey, maybe check your bank too? Some of them (like Capital One 360 or SoFi) are catching on and letting you dodge those overdraft fees or grab advances directly. Fewer strings attached sometimes. Just a thought.