Advance Alternatives
10 competitor cash advance apps ranked.
Read more →Varo is a fully chartered bank — which means not every cash advance app connects to it easily. Here are the ones that actually work, ranked by our testing.
Why compatibility matters: Because Varo is a federally chartered bank (not a fintech using a bank partner), some cash advance apps that work through Plaid or similar services may not connect smoothly. The apps below have been verified to work with Varo Bank accounts.
EarnIn connects via Plaid and is confirmed to link with Varo Bank accounts. Access up to $150/day with no mandatory fees. Best for W-2 workers with employer timesheets.
✓ Confirmed CompatibleDave's ExtraCash feature links to external bank accounts including Varo. You can receive advances into your Varo checking account. The $1/month fee applies.
✓ Confirmed CompatibleMoneyLion Instacash can link to a Varo Bank account for deposits. Up to $500 with 0% APR. Note: Higher limits require a RoarMoney account (MoneyLion's own account).
✓ Confirmed CompatibleAlbert Instant links via Plaid and deposits to Varo accounts. Works for up to $250 without subscription, up to $1,000 with Genius plan. Good for gig workers.
✓ Confirmed CompatibleBrigit connects to most accounts via Plaid including Varo. Advances up to $250. Requires 3+ months of account history and regular incoming deposits.
≈ Mostly CompatibleEmpower uses Plaid to link external accounts. Most users report successful Varo linkage. Advances up to $300 instantly. $8/month subscription required.
≈ Mostly CompatibleCleo connects via Plaid but some Varo users report connection issues. Try it — if your account links successfully, advances up to $250 are available for Cleo Plus members.
⚠ LimitedKlover has mixed reports with Varo. Some users connect successfully, others face issues. Advances up to $200 if you qualify. No subscription fee.
⚠ LimitedInstall the app from the App Store or Google Play. Create an account with your name, email, and phone number.
Most apps use Plaid to link bank accounts. Search for "Varo Bank" in the bank search. Enter your Varo username and password.
The app will analyze your Varo transaction history (usually 2–3 months of data) to determine your eligibility and advance amount.
Once approved, request your advance and choose delivery speed. Standard (free) or instant (small fee) delivery options are typically available.
Most compatibility issues stem from Plaid integration. Since Varo is a fully chartered bank (not a fintech using Bancorp or Stride), Plaid connections can sometimes fail or require manual verification. Try: logging in fresh, enabling biometric login in Varo first, or contact the advance app's support to report the Varo connection issue.
Yes — Varo Advance is Varo's internal product and is separate from third-party apps linking to your account. However, you can only have one outstanding Varo Advance at a time. Using a third-party app depositing to your Varo account doesn't conflict with Varo Advance.