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.
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:
Overall, the majority of reviews praise Dave for being a dependable resource during financial crunches, offering quick assistance when it matters most.
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:
So while Dave offers advances up to $500, you might need to be patient and use the app consistently to potentially reach higher amounts.
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.