When I first started exploring financial apps like Cleo, I found it challenging to come across genuine, insightful articles about the specifics and user experiences of these apps. Having used Cleo and similar apps extensively, I understand the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks they offer.
This article aims to shed light on these apps, providing a comprehensive overview and personal insights to guide you through their functionalities and how they can fit into your financial management routine.
19 Apps Like Cleo
1. Chime SpotMe
Chime SpotMe is a standout feature for Chime members, designed to alleviate the stress of overdraft fees. This service allows eligible members to overdraw their checking account up to $200 without incurring any fees, providing a safety net for financial emergencies.
To qualify for SpotMe, members must receive $200 or more in direct deposits within a 34-day period and have an activated Chime debit card.
Enrollment is straightforward through the Chime app, ensuring users can easily access this feature.
However, it’s important to note that SpotMe is specific in its coverage; it only applies to debit card transactions. Other types of transactions, such as ACH transfers or Chime Checkbook transactions, are not covered under this service.
Albert
Albert, on the other hand, goes beyond just overdraft protection. It’s a comprehensive financial service that combines automation with human expertise, aiming to simplify and optimize personal finance management.
Albert offers up to $250 in overdraft protection without any minimums or fees, providing a buffer similar to Chime’s SpotMe.
However, Albert extends its services to include features like automatic savings, investment options starting at just $1, and round-the-clock money monitoring, catering to a wide range of financial needs and goals.
The safety of funds is a priority; Albert Cash and Savings accounts are FDIC-insured, and securities through Albert Investments are protected by SIPC. Additionally, for those seeking tailored financial advice, Albert offers a Genius subscription service, connecting users with real financial experts for personalized guidance.
2. Brigit
Brigit stands out in the financial app landscape, offering a trio of essential services: cash advances, credit building, and budgeting tools.
Users in need of immediate funds can turn to Brigit for cash advances ranging from $50 to $250, subject to certain approval and eligibility criteria.
Notably, Brigit ensures a stress-free process by avoiding credit checks and not imposing late fees on advances. In addition to these services, Brigit prioritizes financial security and awareness by offering identity theft protection and credit reports.
With a strong user base of over 4 million and high ratings across app stores, Brigit has established itself as a reliable financial partner for many users.
3. MoneyLion
MoneyLion brings a comprehensive suite of financial services to the table, positioning itself as more than just a cash advance app. As a mobile banking platform, it caters to a wide range of financial needs.
Users can access services like cash advances, personal loans, and even investment accounts, making it a versatile choice for those looking to manage their finances in a more integrated manner.
MoneyLion also offers tools for financial tracking and credit building, helping users stay on top of their finances and improve their financial health.
The platform may also provide perks such as early paycheck access and no-fee banking options, enhancing its appeal to users seeking a multifaceted financial solution.
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4. Possible Finance
Possible Finance is a notable player in the realm of short-term loans, offering a forward-thinking alternative to traditional payday loans.
This service is tailored for those who need a quick financial boost and prefer a more manageable repayment structure.
With Possible Finance, users can obtain short-term loans that are repayable in installments, granting more flexibility compared to the rigid terms of conventional payday loans.
The entire process, from application to loan management, is streamlined through the Possible Finance app, ensuring convenience and efficiency.
A significant advantage of using Possible Finance is its approach to credit building; the platform reports loan repayments to credit bureaus, aiding users in establishing or improving their credit history.
5. B9
B9 emerges as a financial service focusing on enhancing cash flow management by providing early access to paychecks.
Members can receive advances ranging from $30 to $500, allowing them to address immediate financial needs without waiting for the standard payday.
To utilize this service, users are required to set up and maintain a direct deposit into a B9 Account. B9 distinguishes itself with a customer-friendly approach, offering a $0 subscription fee for clients with qualifying direct deposits.
The platform simplifies the fund transfer process, eliminating the need for extra apps, and caters to a diverse clientele with support available in multiple languages.
By offering early access to earned wages, B9 aims to empower users to manage their finances more effectively and avoid the pitfalls of paycheck-to-paycheck living.
6. Dave
Dave stands as a pioneering banking app, driven by a commitment to level the financial playing field for its users. One of its flagship features is the ExtraCash™ advance, which allows members to borrow up to $500.
This feature is central to Dave’s mission to eradicate the burden of overdraft fees by offering cash advances that come without interest or late fees. In addition to financial assistance, Dave provides a suite of financial tools aimed at fostering financial wellness.
These include fee-free goal tracking and a curated selection of side hustles to help users augment their income. Dave’s ethos is deeply rooted in its core values: being member-centric, helpful, transparent, and persistent.
The overarching mission is to champion the financial health of its members, with a particular focus on those who find themselves underserved by traditional banking institutions.
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7. Earnin
Earnin redefines the way users access their earnings by allowing them to tap into up to $100/day of their pay before payday.
The app introduces services like cash out and lightning-speed transfers, alongside credit monitoring, all of which are accessible without mandatory fees or credit checks.
Earnin’s mission is to assist users in navigating unexpected expenses and bolstering their financial stability. The platform is committed to user security, employing the latest technology to safeguard personal data, and providing round-the-clock support.
Earnin’s community-driven ethos is reflected in its significant impact: the platform boasts over $15 billion in earnings accessed by its users, underscoring its role as a vital financial ally.
8. NerdWallet
NerdWallet emerges as a comprehensive personal finance app, meticulously designed to provide users with a holistic view of their financial health. The app excels in tracking crucial financial metrics such as net worth, cash flow, credit score and report, rewards cards, and home value.
A standout feature is its credit report functionality, which allows users to monitor their credit standing regularly without impacting their score. Beyond mere tracking, NerdWallet is a reservoir of financial knowledge, offering a plethora of articles, money management advice, and calculators.
To unlock its full potential, users are required to create a free account, enabling them to connect and keep tabs on all their financial accounts.
NerdWallet excels in delivering personalized financial insights and tips, ensuring that users can frequently access their full credit report. The platform sustains itself financially through strategic partnerships with financial product providers, yet it remains free for account holders.
Additionally, it fosters a sense of community by providing a forum for user questions. The app’s availability on both Android and iOS devices adds to its accessibility and convenience.
9. QuickBooks
QuickBooks positions itself as an indispensable business management tool, specifically tailored for small business owners.
The app is a powerhouse for tracking sales, expenses, generating invoices, and managing various financial transactions, providing a real-time dashboard for a comprehensive financial overview. It ensures seamless operation by syncing with QuickBooks Online, its web counterpart.
Compatible with Android OS 4.1 and greater, iOS 9.3 and greater, the app not only offers the convenience of viewing business details and sending invoices on the go but also connects to bank accounts for automatic transaction import and review.
QuickBooks extends its utility to desktop users through its Windows/Mac app and leverages cloud-based services to heighten productivity and security.
The app’s mobile accounting features, like receipt capture and expense tracking, underscore its commitment to providing a full-fledged accounting solution tailored to the dynamic needs of modern small businesses.
10. Empower Cash Advance
Empower Cash Advance offers a convenient and user-friendly solution for individuals in need of quick financial assistance. The service provides cash advances ranging from $10 to $250, making it accessible for a variety of needs without imposing interest, late fees, or necessitating credit checks. The repayment process is designed with the user’s convenience in mind, as it is automated and aligned with the user’s next paycheck.
Beyond immediate financial aid, Empower takes a step further with its Thrive feature, aimed at aiding users in building a better credit history.
The Empower Thrive line of credit, while subject to credit approval, is reported to credit bureaus, thereby assisting users in enhancing their credit profile. For those needing instant access to funds, Empower offers the option of instant delivery, although it’s important to note that fees may apply for this expedited service.
Empower operates on a subscription model, charging an $8 monthly fee after a 14-day free trial for first-time customers. Users keen on avoiding this fee must be diligent in canceling the service before the trial concludes.
Although Empower functions as a financial technology company, it’s worth mentioning that its banking services are provided by nbkc bank, Member FDIC, ensuring a level of trust and security for its users.
11. Ingo Money
Ingo Money stands as a versatile and efficient solution for users looking to convert their checks into liquid funds effortlessly.
The service specializes in processing a wide array of checks, including paychecks, business checks, and personal checks, offering the flexibility to cash them anywhere and anytime.
Once approved, funds are rapidly made available and can be directed to users’ bank, prepaid card, or PayPal accounts.
Ingo Money caters to a variety of financial needs, allowing users to pay credit card bills, purchase Amazon.com Gift Cards, or even split a check to fund multiple accounts.
The assurance of guaranteed funds upon check approval means that users can confidently make purchases and payments, whether in-store, online, or via Android Pay.
Setting up the service is straightforward; users are required to create a profile and link their bank debit card, prepaid card, PayPal account, and credit cards.
Cashing a check is as simple as taking a photo of the front and back of the check and submitting it for review. Ingo Money is accessible to identity-verified customers with checks issued on U.S. financial accounts.
While this service offers significant convenience and flexibility, users should be aware of the applicable terms and fees.
12. FloatMe
FloatMe is a forward-thinking financial app that equips users with advanced tools to manage and anticipate their finances.
The app excels in providing a detailed analysis of likely available balances by considering recurring expenses and projected paydays, offering a clear picture of one’s financial status.
Additionally, FloatMe offers spend analysis tools, enabling users to dissect and understand their spending habits, fostering better financial decision-making.
For those in immediate need of funds, FloatMe offers a distinctive feature called a ‘Float.’ Members can request a Float at no cost and expect it in their bank account within three days or less.
For more urgent needs, Instant Floats are available within minutes, although this expedited service comes with a fee, which varies depending on the Float amount.
Security is a top priority for FloatMe; the app employs Plaid to establish a secure connection with users’ bank accounts, ensuring data protection with 256-bit bank-level security.
13. Even
Even, which has transitioned to ONE@Work, is a collaborative financial platform that partners with employers like Walmart to offer comprehensive financial tools to employees.
The platform’s standout feature, Instapay, allows for early access to earned wages, giving employees greater flexibility and control over their income.
ONE@Work is more than just an early wage access service; it’s designed to assist users in effectively managing their pay, budgeting wisely, and saving automatically. For users seeking an enhanced experience, the Even Plus subscription opens up a suite of additional features, encompassing advanced savings and budgeting tools.
ONE@Work is tailored for users who value the flexibility and autonomy to manage their finances and receive pay on a schedule that suits their lifestyle, providing a modern solution to traditional paycheck management.
14. PayActiv
PayActiv stands as a dynamic solution for employees seeking immediate access to their earned wages, contingent on employer participation.
The platform goes beyond mere wage access; it allows users to pick up cash at Walmart, settle bills, and even secure rides, all without the burden of loans or interest.
In addition to its primary services, PayActiv offers the Payactiv Visa Prepaid Card, enhancing users’ ability to conduct various financial transactions with ease.
The platform is committed to fostering financial wellness among its users, providing an array of tools and resources for budgeting, spending tracking, and sound financial advice.
PayActiv caters to users who not only need prompt access to their earned wages but also appreciate having a suite of comprehensive financial services at their disposal, making it a robust option for holistic financial management.
15. DailyPay
DailyPay brings a fresh perspective to wage access, offering an on-demand pay platform that empowers users with early access to their earned wages.
The platform distinguishes itself by seamlessly integrating with a multitude of HR/HCM/payroll systems, ensuring a smooth and cohesive user experience.
Within the app, users are provided with an array of financial control and planning tools, designed to offer a clear and comprehensive view of their financial standing.
Notably, DailyPay does not require users to have a pre-existing checking or savings account, making it an accessible option for a wider audience.
The service is specifically tailored for users who are in pursuit of greater financial flexibility and wish to have heightened visibility into their earnings, positioning DailyPay as a forward-thinking choice for modern financial management.
16. MoneyWallet
MoneyWallet emerges as a versatile and secure companion for both local and international travelers, simplifying the way you manage and spend your money across borders.
As a multicurrency prepaid travel money card, it offers the convenience of real-time balance views and the flexibility to instantly transfer between currencies.
MoneyWallet’s commitment to providing a comprehensive overview of your transactions and spending, along with the ability to manage personal and card details, ensures you remain in control of your finances.
The app’s security features make it a safer alternative to carrying cash, and its acceptance in millions of places where Mastercard is accepted adds to its practicality.
Additionally, MoneyWallet’s dedication to customer support is evident with its 24/7 phone assistance, ensuring help is always just a call away.
17. Buxfer
Buxfer serves as an advanced personal finance assistant, offering real-time transaction updates across an extensive network of over 20,000 financial institutions.
The app’s customization capabilities are a standout feature, allowing you to create custom rules to categorize or modify transactions based on various parameters such as merchant, location, or other metadata.
Buxfer’s commitment to proactive financial management is reflected in its automated alerts for significant financial occurrences, including low account balances, unexpected fees, or potential fraudulent activity.
The app doesn’t stop at transaction management; it offers a comprehensive solution for monitoring your investment holdings, performance, and allocation in real-time. Furthermore, Buxfer’s forecasting feature empowers users to plan their financial future with foresight and precision.
18. Skrooge
Skrooge presents itself as a user-friendly personal finance management tool, designed to provide clear insights into your financial landscape.
The app excels in delivering simple and intuitive graphics, allowing you to effortlessly track the progress of your expenses.
Skrooge’s high level of customization elevates the user experience, offering options to personalize the interface’s colors and icons. With a focus on data security and accessibility, the app includes a backup feature that enables you to store your data in the cloud.
The real-time currency converter further enhances Skrooge’s functionality, although it requires an internet connection to access updated data.
The app also introduces the concept of a “total wallet,” allowing you to analyze and manage multiple wallets simultaneously, providing a holistic view of your financial situation.
19. You Need A Budget (YNAB)
You Need A Budget (YNAB) stands as a robust and intuitive budgeting app, designed to bring precision and clarity to your financial management.
YNAB simplifies the daunting task of budgeting by allowing secure linking of your accounts and automatic importation of transactions. This ensures that your financial data is seamlessly integrated and up-to-date across all platforms.
The app’s accessibility is commendable, with compatibility across computers, phones, tablets, and even smart devices like the Apple Watch and Alexa, ensuring you can manage your finances on the go.
YNAB promotes a sense of financial unity and inclusivity, allowing up to six people to share a subscription, making it an ideal choice for partners, families, or any group seeking collective financial oversight.
At the core of YNAB’s methodology is the zero-based budgeting system, which encourages proactive financial planning by assigning every dollar a specific role in your budget. This approach not only fosters disciplined spending but also ensures that your financial goals are consistently in focus.
