💡 Quick Verdict
Dave is designed to help people avoid overdraft fees with small cash advances up to $500. The ExtraCash feature is genuinely useful for bridging gaps between paychecks. However, the tipping model and express fee can add up, and banking features are basic compared to Chime or SoFi.
✅ Pros
- Cash advances up to $500
- No interest on advances
- Automatic budgeting
- Side Hustle job finder
- No credit check
- FDIC insured
❌ Cons
- Tips encouraged (can add up)
- Express fee for instant advances
- Basic banking features
- Lower advance limits initially
- Limited savings features
- Subscription required for some features
What is Dave?
Dave is a banking app focused on helping people avoid overdraft fees. Its signature feature is ExtraCash, which provides small advances up to $500 with no interest. The app also offers budgeting tools and a Side Hustle feature to find gig work. Dave partners with Evolve Bank for FDIC insurance.
Learn more about app safety in our Safe Finance Guide.
ExtraCash
Advances up to $500
Budget Alerts
Spending predictions
Side Hustle
Find gig work
Dave Banking
No-fee checking
Who Should Use Dave?
Dave is ideal for:
- People living paycheck to paycheck
- Those who frequently overdraft
- Anyone needing small cash advances
- Gig workers seeking extra income
Dave might NOT be for you if:
- Those who don't need cash advances
- People wanting comprehensive banking
- Users seeking high-yield savings
- Those who dislike tipping models
Not sure if Dave is right for you? Take our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Dave vs Competitors
Dave vs Albert
Albert: Both offer cash advances. Albert has better budgeting and human financial advice; Dave has higher advance limits.
Dave vs Chime
Chime: Chime's SpotMe is simpler (automatic, no tips). Dave offers larger advances but with more friction.
Dave vs Earnin
Earnin advances are based on hours worked. Dave doesn't require employment verification.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I borrow from Dave?
Up to $500, but you start lower ($25-100) and limits increase with account history and direct deposit.
Does Dave charge interest?
No interest. However, Dave suggests tips (optional) and charges a fee for instant transfers ($1.99-$5.99).
Do I need a job to use Dave?
You don't need traditional employment, but you need regular income (including gig work, benefits, etc.) deposited to your Dave account.
How fast can I get money from Dave?
Instant (with express fee) or 1-3 business days (free) to your Dave account or external bank.
Is Dave safe and legit?
Yes, Dave is a legitimate company. Banking services are FDIC-insured through Evolve Bank & Trust.
Ready to Try Dave?
See if Dave is the right fit for your financial journey