App stores are crowded places these days, and because storage space on your phone is often at a premium, you’ll want to fill it with not only the best, but also the most helpful apps out there. Because they come and go quicker than the latest fashion trends, and digging through Google Play, the iTunes App Store, or any of the others is such a mission; a little nudge in the right direction is often very welcome. Here are the apps we think you need to check out this week.

To achieve some of the really big goals in life, a considerable amount of money — more than you may have on hand — is needed. It’s not always comfortable asking for cash from friends and family, but the process is made easier by technology. While Venmo is designed more as a way to make small payments to friends, like splitting a check, Ledge turns the system into a way to lend money and help out your loved ones.

The best way to think of Ledge is somewhere between Kickstarter and PayPal. Users can set up campaigns and provide some detail as to what they need money for. Then friends and family can help contribute to their goal with loans up to $5,000. The interest rate and repayment plan can be negotiated and set between parties so the terms are understood and agreed upon. The whole process is run through Venmo, so you know that the money will be there when you need it. Just try not to get too greedy.

iTunes, Google Play