Instant Pay: 5 Companies and Alternatives to Get Paid on the Same Day

Instant pay, also known as same-day pay, allows employees to access their earnings on the same day they work. Companies like Walmart, Dollar Tree, McDonald's, Duracell, and Calhoun Management (Wendy's) offer instant pay as a benefit to attract new employees. Alternatives for on-demand pay include EarnIn, Chime, and MoneyLion, which offer cash advances up to $500.

Instant pay, also known as same-day pay, is gaining traction in the business landscape, offering employees the ability to access their earnings on the same day they work. Companies such as Walmart, Dollar Tree, McDonald's, Duracell, and Calhoun Management (Wendy's) have embraced this innovative approach to attract and retain talent. This shift is driven by the growing demand for financial flexibility among employees, particularly in the gig economy.

According to a study by PYMNTS Intelligence and The Clearing House, nearly two-thirds of consumers live paycheck to paycheck, highlighting the need for more frequent and accessible pay schedules. This trend has led to the integration of on-demand pay solutions like Instant and DailyPay into HR platforms, offering employees the freedom to manage their daily cash flow needs [2].

Instant, a leading provider of earned wage access solutions, has partnered with Workday to expand its reach. This strategic alliance enables Instant to serve more businesses focused on their employees' financial well-being, reaching tens of millions of workers [2]. Instant's flexible solutions are trusted by brands across various industries, including hospitality, staffing, manufacturing, transportation, and retail [1].

The benefits of instant pay are manifold. For employers, offering on-demand pay can be a competitive advantage, particularly in an environment where staff shortages are prevalent. According to Instant, companies that adopt these solutions are more likely to attract and retain employees [1]. Furthermore, instant pay can help mitigate the effects of inflation by providing employees with immediate access to their earned wages [1].

Alternatives to instant pay, such as EarnIn, Chime, and MoneyLion, offer cash advances up to $500, catering to the financial needs of employees who require immediate access to funds. These platforms provide a responsible option for employees to use a portion of their pay when needed, without the burden of excessive fees [1].

The integration of instant pay into HR platforms is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of financial wellness in the workplace. By offering employees the ability to access their earnings on their terms, companies can enhance employee satisfaction and productivity. This shift towards more flexible and responsive payroll solutions is set to continue, driven by the evolving needs and expectations of the modern workforce.

References:

[1] https://www.instant.co/employers/
[2] https://www.pymnts.com/payroll/2025/workday-and-dailypay-expand-reach-of-on-demand-pay-offering/