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Best Debit Card Loans: Payday, Cash Advance & Alternatives (2026)

Need a loan deposited to your prepaid debit card? Consider these lenders.

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By

Lacey Stark

Edited by

Megan B. Shepherd

Updated

Fact checked

These days, most lenders deposit your loan funds directly into your checking account. But a few lenders can load a payday loan (or similar) onto an existing debit card. Or, as one alternative, some cash advance providers may be able to deposit advances onto your debit card or offer their own cards to fund.

However, like other short-term loans, debit card loans are best used as a last resort, as they can come with rates of 400% or more. Plus, some lenders may require you to visit a physical location, not all debit cards are eligible and you typically need an open and active checking account to qualify.

5 lenders that offer debit card loans

These lenders will load a payday loan onto your personal debit card or prepaid card that you can swipe at stores or use online.

Best for larger loan amounts

Advance America logo
Not scored yet
Advance America Payday Loan
Not scored yet
$100 to $5,000
2 weeks to 24 months
36% to 500%
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Why we like it

Advance America has payday and installment loans, both of which can be loaded directly onto your debit card for faster access to funds. It offers loan amounts up to $5,000, which is on the higher end for this type of lender, and you can expect a decision within minutes. But rates can reach as high as 500% or more, you’ll need to visit a store location to have your debit card loaded and some loans require a hard credit check to qualify.

Pros

  • Loan amounts up to $5,000
  • Funds both payday and installment loans onto debit card
  • Poor credit OK

Cons

  • Rates up to 500%+
  • Must apply in-store to fund onto debit card
  • Some loans require a hard credit check

Best for fully online process

ACE Cash Express logo
7.2 Great
ACE Cash Express Short-term Loans
7.2 Great
Varies by state
Varies by state
400% to 600%
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Why we like it

ACE’s Instant Funding to a debit card is its fastest and most convenient way for you to receive your loan proceeds, and it can all be done from the comfort of your own home. Unlike some lenders, the application process and funding to your debit card is fully online, and you could receive your money in as fast as 30 minutes. But not everyone is eligible for Instant Funding, it’s not available in all states and loan amounts vary depending on where you live — and whether you’re applying online or in person.

Pros

  • Debit card loans as soon as 30 minutes
  • Fully online process
  • Instant decision

Cons

  • Not everyone is eligible for Instant Funding
  • Loan amounts vary by state
  • Not available in all states

Best for wider state availability

Speedy Cash logo
8.9 Great
Speedy Cash Short-term Loans
8.9 Great
$50 to $3,000 (varies by state)
Varies
Varies by state
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Why we like it

Speedy Cash operates in 23 states — more than most payday lenders — including more than 140 stores in 11 states. But, even if there isn’t a location near you, you can still apply for a debit card loan online and get funded without ever needing to visit a physical location. You can also apply over the phone or visit a branch for cash today. But loan options and rates can vary significantly, depending on where you live. Also, loan amounts aren’t consistent across states either.

Pros

  • Operates in 23 states
  • Can fund your debit card online or in-store
  • Multiple loan options available

Cons

  • Rates and loan amounts vary by state
  • Some loans products restricted by location
  • Not available in all states

Best for non-internet users

Check into Cash logo
Not scored yet
Check Into Cash Installment Loans
Not scored yet
Varies by state
6 months to 1 year
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Why we like it

No internet? No problem. With over 200 stores in 15 states, Check Into Cash is a full-service operation and offers debit card loans as a fast funding option. It has numerous loan types and a ton of other services, including bill pay, Western Union, check cashing and more — it’ll even purchase your unwanted gift cards. But, like similar lenders, its fees are high, with some APRs over . Also, some loan options aren’t available in every state, and while you can start your application online, you’ll need to visit a store location to complete the process.

Pros

  • More than 200 stores in 15 states
  • Debit card funding available
  • Offers many additional services

Cons

  • APRs can be more than
  • Loan options vary by state
  • Must visit a branch to complete application

Best for online bank accounts

LendNation logo
Not scored yet
LendNation
Not scored yet
Up to $10,000
Varies by loan type
Varies
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Why we like it

Unlike some payday lenders, LendNation doesn’t require borrowers to have a traditional checking account to qualify for instant debit card funding. This feature makes it a solid option for people who do all their banking online, because they only need an eligible bank-issued debit card that can receive funds. It offers a variety of loans at more than 300 stores across the country, and you can apply in-store or online and get your loan funded to your card in as little as 30 minutes. But rates are high, and some debit cards may not be eligible.

Pros

  • Traditional bank account not required
  • Debit card funding within 30 minutes
  • More than 300 store locations

Cons

  • High rates
  • Some debit cards are ineligible
  • Not available in all states
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Cash advance apps that include debit cards

Cash advance apps can be a good alternative to payday loans, with lower fees, more favorable terms and features and the ability to use a debit card for quick access to funds.

7 of 7 results
Updated regularly
Finder Score Max. amount per pay period Turnaround time Costs
9.4 Excellent
Up to $500
Instant transfers: 3% of the advance amount ($2 minimum, $5 maximum)
No subscription fees; Instant transfer fee: 3% of the advance amount ($2 minimum, $5 maximum)
Access up to $500 of your pay before payday fee-free within 24 hours. See Chime terms and conditions. MyPay is only offered in select states.
Important information
MyPay® line of credit provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. MyPay services provided by Chime Capital, LLC (NMLS 2316451). MyPay eligibility: Some Restrictions Apply. To be eligible for MyPay, you must receive qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account in the preceding 36 days as set forth in the MyPay Agreement. A qualifying direct deposit is a deposit from an employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, government benefits payer, or other permitted source of income by Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) or Original Credit Transaction (“OCT”). Your MyPay Credit Limit and Maximum Available Advance may change at any time. MyPay is a line of credit and available limits are based on estimated income and risk-based criteria. Eligible members may be offered a $20 - $500 Credit Limit per pay period. Your Credit Limit and Maximum Available Advance will be displayed to you within the Chime app. MyPay is currently only available to eligible Chime members in certain states. Other restrictions may apply. See Bancorp MyPay Agreement or Stride MyPay Agreement for details. Instant funds: Option to get funds instantly for a fee of 3% of the advance amount ($2 minimum, $5 maximum) per advance, or get funds for free within 24 hours. See Bancorp MyPay Agreement or Stride MyPay Agreement for details; see back of card for issuer. SpotMe: SpotMe® on Credit is an optional, no interest/no fee overdraft line of credit tied to the Secured Deposit Account. SpotMe on Debit is an optional, no fee service attached to your Chime Checking Account (individually or collectively, "SpotMe"). Eligibility for SpotMe requires $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month. Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account and/or their Secured Deposit Account up to $20 in total, but may be later eligible for a higher combined limit of up to $200 or more based on member’s Chime account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. Your SpotMe Limit will be displayed to you within the Chime mobile app. You will receive notice of any changes to your SpotMe Limit. SpotMe for Credit and SpotMe on Debit share a single SpotMe limit. Your SpotMe Limit may change at any time, at Chime or its banking partners’ discretion. Although there are no overdraft fees, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions or OTC cash withdrawal fees at retailers. SpotMe won’t cover non-card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. SpotMe terms and conditions. Early Pay: Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date. Savings: Chime® Checking Account is required to be eligible for a Savings Account. APY: The 4.00% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is only available to members with Chime Prime status, otherwise, either the 3.00% APY for members with Chime Plus status or the standard rate of 1.00% APY will apply. The APYs are effective as of 10/06/2026, are variable and may change at any time. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest. See Chime Membership Tiers Terms and Conditions for more details. Build credit: On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Chime will report your activities to Transunion®, Experian®, and Equifax®. Impact on your credit may vary, as Credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations.
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8.2 Great
$20 to $250
3 to 4 days or instant for a fee.
$5.99 monthly membership fee to access cash advances
Automatically monitor your spending plus access cash advances up to $100 at a time.
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9.4 Excellent
Up to $250 today. Build up to $1,000 over time with direct deposit at Varo. Average loan: $195. Qualifications Apply.
Instant, once qualified
No membership fees, Flat Fees of $1.60 to $100
Important information
Varo Advance qualification is subject to evaluation of consumer reports and Varo account activity. If approved, initial limits range from $20- $250. Unlock higher limits up to $1,000 over time when you bring your qualifying direct deposit to Varo and build a positive history with us. Negative repayment history may impact credit. Fees range from $1.60 - $100 based on loan amount, and deposits to your Varo Bank Account. Your current limit and applicable fees can be viewed in the Varo App. Qualifying direct deposits are electronic deposits of your paycheck, pension or government benefits (such as Social Security or unemployment) from your employer or government agency to the extent that can be identified. Tax refunds and government stimulus payments, Person-to-Person payments (such as Venmo +or Varo to Anyone), and funds deposited using a Varo routing number are not considered a direct deposit.
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EarnIn logo
9.5 Excellent
EarnIn
9.5 Excellent
Up to $150/day, with a max of $1000 between paydays
1-2 business days standard, in minutes with a small fee
Free
Access up to $150 per day, with a max of $1000 between paydays. Not available to CT or Washington, D.C. residents. Subject to EarnIn terms & conditions.
Important information
EarnIn is not a bank. Access limits are based on your earnings and risk factors. Available in select states. Terms and restrictions apply. Visit EarnIn.com for full details. Expedited transfers available for a fee. Visit Earnin.com for full details.
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Super.com logo
8.6 Great
Super.com
8.6 Great
Up to $250
3 business days
$3.99 to $6.99 fee for instant transfer
Get up to $250 cash advance with no impact to your credit score or hidden fees.
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Brigit logo
8.4 Great
Brigit
8.4 Great
$50 to $500
1 to 3 business days or instant with a Premium subscription or for a fee.
Brigit Plus: $8.99/month; Brigit Premium: $14.99/month
Have up to $500 automatically deposited into your account — for a $8.99 membership fee.
Important information
ME: $25-$250 only
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OppLoans logo
9.4 Excellent
OppLoans Installment Loans
9.4 Excellent
$500 to $5,000
As soon as the same business day
129% - 195% APR
Not available in: CO, CT, GA, IA, MD, MA, NY, SD, VT, WV. Comes with the option to change your due date so you won’t fall behind on repayments.
Important information
The advertised APR is an estimate based on currently available information, is not final, and is subject to change. If approved, your actual rate will be determined and assigned based on your creditworthiness, income, application information, and other relevant factors. Applications submitted on the OppLoans platform will be originated by one of our bank partners and serviced by OppLoans. Please see the Rates and Terms for details regarding the availability of products in your state of residence. Subject to credit approval and verification. Actual approved loan amount and terms are dependent on our bank partners’ standard underwriting guidelines and credit policies. Funds may be deposited for delivery to your bank via ACH as soon as the same business day if verification is completed and final approval occurs before 12:00 PM CT on a business day. If approval occurs after 12:00 PM CT on a business day or on a non-business day, funds may be delivered as soon as the next business day. Availability of the funds is dependent on how quickly your bank processes the transaction. Installment loan amounts typically range from $500 to $5,000. Annual percentage rate (APR) ranges from 129% to 195%. Installment loan lengths range from 9 to 18 months. Example: A $2,000 installment loan repayable in 9 monthly payments with an APR of 160% would have monthly payments of $394.58. Loan amount, APR, and repayment terms may vary by state, please see https://www.opploans.com/rates-and-terms for additional information. Approval is not guaranteed. If approved, your actual rate will fall within the marketed range of rates, and will be determined and assigned based on your creditworthiness, income, application information, and other relevant factors. Not all applicants will qualify for the lowest available rates. This is an expensive form of credit and you should determine whether the offered product(s) meets your financial needs. OppLoans’ Bank Partners may use credit report information provided by Clarity Services and Experian as part of the application process to determine your creditworthiness. The credit inquiry will appear as a soft credit inquiry on your Experian credit report and a hard credit inquiry on your Clarity report. Therefore it will not affect your FICO credit score. OppLoans and its Bank Partners report customer payment history to the three major credit bureaus. On-time payments may improve credit score.
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What is the Finder Score?

The Finder Score crunches 3+ types of short-term loans across 65+ lenders. It takes into account the product's interest rate, fees and features, as well as the type of loan eg investor, variable, fixed rate - this gives you a simple score out of 10.

To provide a Score, we compare like-for-like loans. So if you're comparing the best short-term loans for all credit types, you can see how each short-term loan stacks up against other short-term loans with the same borrower type, rate type and repayment type.

Read the full breakdown

How does a debit card loan work?

A debit card loan is any type of loan where the funds are deposited onto a debit card instead of into your bank account (or disbursed as cash or a check). The debit card could come from your regular bank, an online bank or it could be a prepaid debit card.

In general, payday lenders are the only ones who offer debit card loans, but they may also deposit funds from other loan types, too, like installment loans or title loans. Payday debit card loans are typically due on your next pay date, but some loan options offer longer loan terms.

Pros and cons of a prepaid debit card payday loan

Payday loans come with their own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Pros

  • Easy access to funds. Once your lender transfers your money to your card, you can use it to shop at stores or online, pay your bills or withdraw cash at an ATM.
  • Can set up your card for other deposits. Most prepaid cards can receive direct deposits, offering fast access to your paycheck, tax refund advances and government benefits.
  • Earn rewards with the right card. Some debit card providers allow you to earn cash back or other rewards with your spending.
  • Multiple lenders to choose from. If you live in a state where payday loans are legal, you’ll find several lenders that offer this type of loan. Compare the ease of applying and turnaround to find the best option for your needs.

Cons

  • High fees. Payday lenders charge considerably higher fees than other types of lenders, which could get you caught in a cycle of debt.
  • Short repayment terms. As the name implies, your loan is typically due on your next payday, although some extend up to 30 days. Make sure it won’t strain your budget too much before you apply.
  • Disreputable lenders. Plenty of shady lenders are out there trying to take advantage of people at their most vulnerable. Confirm that your lender is licensed and operates legally in your state before signing a contract.

How to apply for a debit card loan

Applying for a prepaid debit card payday loan is similar to other types of loans, except it may not require a hard credit check.

  1. Check requirements. You’ll likely need a steady source of income, be a US citizen or permanent resident, have an active bank account and be the age of majority in your state. Most payday lenders don’t check your credit score, although they might if you opt for a larger loan.
  2. Gather documents. You’ll likely need your SSN, valid identification, pay stubs, employer information and proof of address.
  3. Apply. If you apply online, you could receive a lending decision within minutes. Payday lenders often have fast turnaround times, and some may even fund your debit card within 30 minutes.

What to watch out for

Before you apply for a prepaid debit card payday loan, consider how you’ll repay it. Among the most notorious types of lending, payday loans often come with high fees. Late or missed payments can lead to additional fees and stiff penalties. And there is a very real risk of falling into a cycle of debt if you borrow money between paychecks often.

Payday loans are governed by state regulations that limit how much you can borrow and for how long. These laws are designed to protect you against predatory lending. Carefully review the terms and conditions of your specific loan, and ask questions about anything you don’t understand before signing any contract.

Alternatives to debit card loans

With high fees associated with debit card loans, you may want to consider other options.

  • Personal loan. You can borrow as little as $1,000 with a personal loan, and you’ll have longer to pay it back at a lower rate than a payday loan. However, you may need good credit to qualify.
  • Installment loan. Payday lenders often provide installment loans, too, but these lenders may have better rates and more favorable loan terms.
  • Cash advance apps. It’s typically easy to qualify for a cash advance app. They’re cheaper than debit card payday loans, and funding is practically instant for a small fee.
  • Buy now, pay later (BNPL) apps. If you don’t need cash, a BNPL app is an easy way to make larger purchases and pay over time. And you may not even be charged interest.

Bottom line

A debit card can be a convenient way to receive your payday loan, but it comes with the same risks and costs as any other short-term loan. Before you commit to a lender, learn more about how payday loans work to ensure they’re the right fit for you.

Frequently asked questions

Megan B. Shepherd's headshot
To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by Megan B. Shepherd as part of our fact-checking process.
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Written by

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Lacey Stark is a freelance personal finance writer for Finder, specializing in banking, loans, investing, estate planning, and more. She has 20 years of experience writing and editing for magazines, newspapers, and online publications. A word nerd from childhood, Lacey officially got her start reporting on live sporting events and moved on to cover topics such as construction, technology, and travel before finding her niche in personal finance. Originally from New England, she received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Denver and completed a postgraduate journalism program at Metropolitan State University also in Denver. She currently lives in Chicagoland with her dog Chunk and likes to read and play golf. See full bio

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323 Responses

    Yui's avatar
    YuiOctober 10, 2017

    I have a prepaid debit card with direct deposit. I do not have a regular checking account. However i am trying to get a payday loan. Can you help me?

      Maria's avatarFinder
      MariaOctober 10, 2017Finder

      Hello Yui,

      As Finder is an online comparison service and is not an insurer, we do not represent any of the companies featured on our pages.

      As of this writing, applying with the lenders featured on this page would require a checking account.

      First, you may want to check if payday loans are available in your state. Then, it would be best to get in touch with the insurers in your area directly to see what they can offer based on your financial situation.

      Best,
      Maria

    Solita's avatar
    SolitaOctober 9, 2017

    I don’t have a triditional bank account,I receive my pay by Visa debit card, will there be a problem receiving a payday loan

      Judith's avatarFinder
      JudithOctober 9, 2017Finder

      Hi Solita,

      Thanks for contacting finder, a comparison website and general information service.

      You can find lenders who approve loans for borrowers without a bank account. It means that with prepaid debit card loans, you can have the funds deposited onto the card.

      On the page you’re viewing, we have a comparison of lenders for you to also see on who would take a prepaid debit card to put your funds on.

      A gentle reminder – please check if payday loans are available in your state. On the page you’re viewing, please scroll down until you see the map. Then hover the mouse on your state to see the result.

      I hope this helps.

      Best regards,
      Judith

    Chris's avatar
    ChrisOctober 5, 2017

    Which direct lenders will take a prepaid debit card to put my funds on

      Gru's avatar
      GruOctober 6, 2017

      Hello Chris,

      Thanks for reaching out to Finder.

      You can compare the lenders that offer prepaid debit card loans above. However, while these lenders will load loan funds onto a prepaid debit card, they still require you to have a bank account.

      If you need a loan but only have a prepaid debit card, consider getting a loan from lenders that don’t require bank accounts instead.

      Hope this helps.

      Cheers,
      Gru

    Cassidy's avatar
    CassidyOctober 3, 2017

    Hi, can I still get a loan without a bank account and also I don’t know what my credit score is. I’m trying to get my own place but with a kid, I have to support that is kind of hard to do.

      Lori's avatar
      LoriOctober 9, 2017

      I am on SSI and I am my mother’s power of attorney cus she pays me into my account for helping her the last three years …do I qualify for a Payday loan

      Judith's avatarFinder
      JudithOctober 10, 2017Finder

      Hi Lori,

      Thanks for contacting Finder, a comparison website and general information service.

      You can as long as you meet the criteria of the lender. You may view our guide on how get a loan when you’re on welfare so you can see and review the types of loans you may be eligible for and how you can get them.

      I hope this helps.

      Best regards,
      Judith

      renchcruz's avatarFinder
      RenchOctober 3, 2017Finder

      Hi Cassidy,

      Thanks for reaching out to Finder.

      While you may have limited loan options if you do not have a bank account, it is possible for you to find alternative loan services that could help you without the need for your local bank.

      There are lenders that offer no bank account loans however, keep in mind that these loans will most likely cost you more than the average personal loans. Generally, you will have a better chance of getting approved for a loan if you are able to meet all the eligibility criteria and if you have a good credit rating.

      If you don’t know what your credit score is, you can get your credit report from different credit bureaus.

      Hope this helps.

      Best regards,
      Rench

    M. Climer's avatar
    M.October 2, 2017

    Can I get a loan added to my derict Express card

      Danielle's avatar
      DanielleOctober 2, 2017

      Hi there!

      Thank you for contacting finder. We are a comparison website and general information service, we’re more than happy to offer general advice.

      That would depend on the company/service you are going to choose. You may review and compare the offers available on the table. Once you have selected one, you may proceed by clicking the green “Go to Site” button.

      I hope this helps.

      Cheers,
      Danielle

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