Short on cash and find yourself Googling, "can you get a loan through Cash App?" If you're in that situation, it makes sense to find out. While Cash App offers a loan tool called Borrow, it’s important to know that it's an invite-only feature for users. This means getting access to cash may not be as easy as it seems.
This guide will walk you through exactly how Cash App's Borrow works, who qualifies, what it costs, and, most important, if it's actually worth it. And you can also learn about some safer alternatives — whether or not you’re eligible for Borrow.
What is Cash App's Borrow and how does it work?
Borrow is a short-term loan feature designed to help Cash App users with a little extra when they need it most. It's a quick loan to cover an unexpected bill or to tide you over until your next paycheck. Loan amounts are modest, usually ranging from $20 to $200. It's not a huge sum, but for many, that's all it takes to handle an immediate need.
The system is straightforward. Once approved, you have four weeks to pay the money back. There's a flat 5% fee attached to the loan, which means if you borrow $100, you'll owe $105 when the due date arrives. This fee is non-negotiable.
A key feature for Borrow is its automatic repayment system: On your due date, you can set Cash App to automatically deduct the full amount from your balance.
Borrow is an invite-only feature. You can't just apply for it. Cash App doesn't perform a formal credit check. Instead, Cash App uses its own criteria to decide which users get access.
Who qualifies for a Cash App loan?
Since you can't just apply for a loan, you might be wondering, "can I get a loan through Cash App?" When it comes to Cash App, the short answer is — it depends on your relationship with the app. The platform's algorithm looks at a few things to determine if you're a good fit for the Borrow feature. These include:
- Your history of using the app. This is one of the biggest factors, especially if you have direct deposits coming in. If you use Cash App for your paycheck, you're much more likely to be given a loan offer.
- Overall app usage. Cash App looks at your overall app usage as another determining factor. This includes how often you use your Cash Card and if you regularly send and receive money. The more you use the app, the better your chances are of getting a loan offer.
- Where you live. Your location also plays a role, as the Borrow feature isn't available in all states.
Unfortunately, there's no way to request access to Cash App's Borrow feature. You just have to wait for Cash App to notify you that you’re eligible. The Borrow option will appear in your app if you meet its criteria.
How do you apply to Cash App's loan offer?
If you’ve been invited to use the Borrow feature, getting the loan can be simple. The process is designed to be quick and easy, which is exactly what's needed in a financial emergency. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Open Cash App and tap the “Banking” tab
This is the icon in the bottom-left corner that looks like a little house. It's where you manage your balance and access banking features.
Step 2: Look for “Borrow”
If you're eligible, you'll see "Borrow" right under your balance. If you don't see it, it means you haven't been invited to use the feature. There’s no hidden button or link — it simply won't be there.
Step 3: Select the loan amount offered
Cash App will show you the maximum amount you’re pre-approved to borrow. You don’t have to take the full amount; you can choose a smaller amount if that’s all you need.
Step 4: Accept the terms and confirm
Read through the repayment terms and fees. Make sure you understand the flat 5% fee and the four-week repayment window. Once you agree, you can confirm the loan.
Step 5: Funds are deposited to your balance
Almost instantly, the loan amount will be added to your Cash App balance. From there, you can use it to pay bills, transfer to your bank, or use your Cash Card for purchases.
What are the repayment terms and fees?
Cash App's Borrow feature keeps the fine print simple. Here’s what you need to know:
- There’s no interest — just the one-time 5% fee.
- Cash App automatically deducts the amount from your balance on the due date.
- There are no late fees — but if you don’t repay, your Cash App balance goes negative.
- If your balance stays negative, Cash App may restrict features or lock you out of your account.
Compared to payday loans, which can charge 300%+ APRs or overdraft fees from banks, Cash App's Borrow tool is much cheaper. But it’s still not free — and missing repayment can cause headaches, especially if you rely on Cash App for everyday transactions.
Is getting a loan through Cash App worth it?
If you don’t see the Borrow option, don’t panic. There’s another way to get cash quickly — without mandatory fees, interest, or credit checks.
Check out EarnIn, an earned wage access (EWA) app. Its Cash Out1 feature lets you access up to $150/day, with a max of $750 between paydays of your already-earned pay, starting at $2.99 per transfer. It’s available to those who get a regular paycheck and have direct deposit. It’s your money. You’re just getting it before your scheduled payday.
Why EarnIn is a solid alternative:
- Get up to $150/day, with a max of $750 per pay period1
- No mandatory fees, no interest, and no credit check (though users can choose to leave a tip2 for the service)
- Works with most employers and banks
- May be a flexible choice for borrowers who don’t qualify for the Cash App option
If you’re facing urgent expenses and Cash App isn’t available to you, EarnIn may be a possible alternative. You can learn more about how EarnIn works or explore our guide to cash advance apps to find the right fit.
What if you don’t qualify for Cash App's Borrow?
First, check if you’re eligible. If you see the Borrow option, follow the steps listed above. Make sure you understand how the loan tool works. While it may be an ideal short-term fix, it may not be a long-term solution.
If you don’t qualify for Borrow, don’t stress. Apps like EarnIn can offer a way to access earned wages without traditional credit checks or interest charges.
Whether you’re covering rent, groceries, or just trying to stay afloat until payday, knowing your options — and their pros and cons — can help you make the best decision for your wallet.
Please note, the material collected in this post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be relied upon as or construed as advice regarding any specific circumstances. Nor is it an endorsement of any organization or services.
This Blog was sponsored by EarnIn. While the author received compensation, the information shared is grounded in independent research and intended to provide helpful and accurate guidance to readers.
EarnIn is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by our bank partners on certain products other than Cash Out.
1A pay period is the time between your paychecks, such as weekly, biweekly, or monthly. EarnIn determines your daily and pay period limits ("Daily Max" and "Pay Period Max") based on your income and financial risk factors as outlined in the Cash Out Maxes section of our Cash Out User Agreement. EarnIn reserves the right to adjust the Daily Max and Pay Period Max at its discretion. Your actual Daily Max will be displayed in your EarnIn account before each Cash Out.
EarnIn does not charge interest on Cash Outs or mandatory fees for standard transfers, which usually take 1–2 business days. For faster transfers, you can choose the Lightning Speed option and pay a fee to receive funds within 30 minutes. Lightning Speed may not be available at all times and/or to all customers. Restrictions and terms apply; see the Lightning Speed Fee Table and Cash Out User Agreement for details and eligibility requirements. Tips are optional and do not affect the quality or availability of services.
2
Tips go to EarnIn and help us provide tools such as Credit Monitoring for free and keep Lightning Speed fees low. Your service quality and availability aren’t affected by whether you tip or not.
