Quick reference to cash (5)
I believe the answer is:
ready
'quick' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)
'reference to cash' is the wordplay.
'reference' becomes 're' (I've seen this in other clues).
'to cash' becomes 'ady' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
're'+'ady'='READY'
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for ready that I've seen before include "Fully-prepared" , "Cash; within reach" , "Available now" , "game?" , "Prepare < dough" .)