Related: Apps similar to Bree
6 Loans Like Dave, Brigit and EarnIn in Canada
Check out these instant loan alternatives to Dave.
Dave, Brigit and EarnIn are mobile banking apps that provide access to cash advances of up to $500, with no interest charges or credit checks to worry about.
Unfortunately, these providers aren’t available in Canada. So if you need access to a small loan fast, check out these instant loans like Dave, Brigit and EarnIn.
Cash advances like Dave, Brigit and EarnIn in Canada
⚠️ Warning: Be cautious with payday loans
High-cost payday loans are unsustainable for long-term use, with up to $14 charged per $100 borrowed. If you're experiencing financial hardship, call Credit Counselling Society for free financial counselling (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm at 1-888-527-8999). Also consider payday loan alternatives.Payday loans like Dave, Brigit and EarnIn
Installment loans like Dave, Brigit and EarnIn
Must read: FTC taking action against Dave
The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken action against Dave for charging undisclosed “tips” for its cash advance service and has found many other issues with the app. The FTC has issued a complaint for permanent injunction, monetary judgment and other consumer relief. The fintech is said to be violating the FTC Act and the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act, as reported by the agency in November 2024.
Reportedly, Dave is not living up to its promises, such as the app claiming consumers can get cash advances up to $500. However, multiple consumers report not ever being offered amounts that high.
Additionally, Dave used to clearly advertise the $1 monthly fee to its consumers. But as of late, Dave is failing to clearly list its $1 monthly fee which it debits directly from consumer accounts.
And perhaps one of the most shocking findings comes from Dave’s claim that it donates a percentage of all consumer tips for its cash advances to help feed hungry children. The app clearly states, “We also provide a meal for every % you tip.” However, it was found that Dave donates just 10 cents for each percentage and it keeps the rest. And reportedly, if you reduce the tip amount to $0, Dave shows a picture of a cartoon child with an empty plate.
Which apps are most similar to Dave?
In Canada, the app that’s most similar to Dave is KOHO. KOHO offers a cash advance if you sign up for a membership, and like Dave, it offers other products and services, such as savings accounts and budgeting tools. The next option is Bree. Like Dave, you can borrow up to $750 with no late fees, and you get access to budgeting tools to track your spending.
How do loans like Dave, Brigit and EarnIn work?
Apps like Dave, Brigit and EarnIn offer short-term loans that allow you to access a portion of your next paycheque, usually between $100 and $500, before you receive it from your employer. This fast access to cash is designed to help you cover any emergency expenses that arise before your next payday. Other similar providers include MoneyLion and Chime.
At the time of writing, Dave, Brigit, EarnIn, MoneyLion and Chime are not available in Canada.
No credit check
There’s typically no credit check to apply, but you’ll need to connect your bank account to the pay advance app. The lender will then assess how much you’re paid and how often to determine the amount you qualify to borrow.
Instant loan for a fee
The funds you borrow are typically available instantly, sometimes for a fee, and you can use the cash to cover your unexpected expenses. No interest is charged on the cash you borrow and your loan repayment is automatically deducted from your bank account when you get your next paycheque.
Many providers don’t charge any late fees, but there may be a monthly subscription fee to access cash advances. Other apps give you the option to leave a tip if you’re happy with the service they provide.
Related: Emergency loans in Canada
Cash advance apps vs payday loan apps: What’s the difference?
Cash advance apps in Canada allow you to borrow a percentage of your salary before it is actually paid into your bank account. On the other hand, payday loan apps are designed to make it convenient to apply for a short-term loan.
Payday loans allow you to borrow up to $1,500 and then repay it over a short period. Terms of up to 62 days are available, but in many cases, the loan repayment will be due on your next payday (hence the name).
Along with short loan terms, the main feature of payday loans is that they’re extremely expensive. Provincial regulations restrict how much lenders can charge you, but you’ll pay $14 for every $100 borrowed. This commonly results in APRs of 300–400% or more, so it’s worth considering other options before applying through a payday loan app.
How much will a $100 loan cost for loans like Dave, Brigit and EarnIn vs payday loans?
To help you get a better idea of the costs involved, let’s take a look at how a pay advance app compares to the total cost of repaying a $100 loan in Ontario.
| Cash advance app (standard delivery) | Payday loan | |
|---|---|---|
| Loan amount | $100 | $100 |
| Loan term | 30 days | 7 days |
| Cost of borrowing | $100 | $14 per $100 borrowed |
| Total cost | $100 | $114 |
What to watch out for with payday loans
If you’re thinking of applying for a payday loan, make sure you’re aware of the risks involved with this sort of financing:
- High cost of borrowing. Payday loans are an extremely expensive way to borrow money and commonly have APRs over 300%. That’s why it’s important to consider a range of payday loan alternatives before choosing this type of loan.
- Short loan terms. Payday loans are designed to be paid back quickly, often on your next payday. These short terms can make it very difficult to find room in your budget to repay what you borrow. This could lead you to take out another payday loan to pay off the first loan and you could soon be stuck in a cycle of debt.
- Sketchy lenders. The payday lending sector also attracts its fair share of disreputable lenders. Make sure you only ever deal with a lender who is licensed to provide payday loans in your province. Watch out for any red flags that could indicate a payday loan scam.
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