Cash Advance Apps

Is Dave app legit?

Last Updated: Jun 13, 2025

Dave is a legit cash advance app. The company, Dave Operating LLC, is based in Los Angeles and claims to have helped over 4 million members get ExtraCash™ and saved users over $2.0 billion in overdraft fees since 2017. While Dave is legit, it's important to note that in 2024, the FTC filed a complaint against the company for misleading marketing practices, alleging deceptive practices like charging undisclosed fees and collecting tips and monthly fees without consumers' knowledge or consent.

How reliable is Dave?

Hundreds of Dave reviews from April and May 2025 that we analyzed suggest users can rely on the app. Here's what they have to say about it:

  • Lifesaver: Over a dozen users describe Dave as a "lifesaver", highlighting how it helps them out "in a pinch" when they need extra cash.
  • Always there when needed: Many users appreciate that Dave is "always there when I need it" and mention its reliability during tight times.
  • Inconsistent advance amounts: A few users express frustration over fluctuating advance limits and reductions in available funds, calling it "unreliable" and "inconsistent".

Overall, the majority of reviews praise Dave for being a dependable resource during financial crunches, offering quick assistance when it matters most.

How much can I get from Dave?

Based on user experiences, getting Dave's advertised maximum cash advance of $500 is possible, but it might take time and consistent use. Here's what we found:

  • Advances can increase: Some users report their advance limits grew over time to $500 or even $600 after regular use and timely repayments.
  • Unpredictable amounts: Many users mention their available advance fluctuates without clear reason, sometimes decreasing even after on-time payments.
  • Starting small: It's common to start with advances as low as $25 or $50, and some users never see an increase despite long-term use.
  • Difficulty reaching $500: Several users express frustration at not being offered advances close to the advertised $500 limit.

So while Dave offers advances up to $500, you might need to be patient and use the app consistently to potentially reach higher amounts.

App reviews talking about Loan Amounts:
"...they fluctuate the amount of money available to you..."
"...increase your loan amount and then drop it out of nowhere..."
"...advance amounts never consistent! Even if a customer for years..."

What users say?

Positive
5%
Negative
95%
Many users complain about the difficulty in canceling their subscriptions with the Dave app. They report unauthorized charges even after attempting to cancel or delete their accounts, with some mentioning recurring fees that persist despite their efforts. The process to unsubscribe seems cumbersome, with users expressing frustration over unresponsive customer service and prolonged attempts to resolve the issue. The sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, with users feeling trapped by a service they no longer wish to use.
App reviews talking about Subscription Cancellation:
"...the hardest app to unsubscribe from..."
"I’ve unlinked my bank account from this app NUMEROUS times and they are still taking my money!!!!"
"...charged 5$ a month for 2 months to tell me im not eligible for an advance..."

Scam reports

Even though Dave is a legit company, we found numerous recent reviews describing the service as scammy (for context, this is out of dozens we analyzed). Over 40 users explicitly called the app a "scam," "fraud," or "thieves." Many users reported unauthorized charges, difficulties canceling their memberships, and unexpected fees that made them feel deceived.

Several reviewers mentioned concerns about unauthorized withdrawals from their bank accounts, even after they thought they had canceled or unlinked their accounts. Others expressed frustration with customer service, saying they were unable to resolve issues or get clear answers about charges.

The overarching theme is that users feel tricked by hidden fees, unwanted subscriptions, and challenges in disconnecting from the service. Many cautioned others to avoid the app to prevent similar negative experiences.

App reviews talking about Scam:
"...they will literally charge you money just for having the app..."
"...this app is fake don’t waste your time on it..."
"...they started charging me monthly without me knowing..."