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Citizens Bank

Bank4.7(172)

Citizens Bank is an active SBA lender in Tennessee, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.7 stars across 172 Google reviews.

About Citizens Bank

Citizens Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or operational needs. With a focus on fostering local economic development, this bank provides various SBA loan programs, including the popular 7(a) loan program, to help entrepreneurs access capital with flexible terms. Their experienced lending team works closely with clients to understand their unique needs and guide them through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. Whether you're looking to purchase equipment, real estate, or manage working capital, Citizens Bank is equipped to support your business ambitions. Located in Elizabethton, Tennessee, they serve a broad region with a commitment to community banking and personalized service. The bank's expertise in SBA loans makes it a reliable partner for small business owners seeking to leverage government-backed financing options. Their loan offerings are designed to accommodate various industries, with a strong emphasis on supporting local businesses in the manufacturing, retail, and service sectors. With a history of approving loans up to $514,000, Citizens Bank is well-positioned to meet diverse funding needs, providing both stability and growth opportunities for small business clients.

Serves SBA borrowers in 39 states

Citizens Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.

Industries Citizens Bank finances

Business types Citizens Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.

Common questions about Citizens Bank

What is this place and what can I find here?

This is a bank that offers SBA loan programs to help small businesses access financing for growth, equipment, or real estate needs. You can find information about loan options, application processes, and personalized support for your business goals.

Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?

It's recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a loan officer, but walk-in consultations may also be available during business hours.

What are the hours of operation?

The bank's typical hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's best to contact the branch directly for specific appointment times.

Is there a fee to use this?

There are no fees to inquire about SBA loans, but loan processing and application fees may apply depending on the loan type and amount.

Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?

This bank primarily serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in the Elizabethton region and surrounding areas, but eligibility is based on creditworthiness and business criteria.

What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?

A minimum personal credit score of around 640 is generally recommended, though higher scores improve approval chances.

How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?

The underwriting process typically takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the loan and completeness of documentation.

Is this open on weekends?

Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Citizens Bank typically follows the same pattern. SBA lending staff are generally reachable Monday through Friday. A few locations offer Saturday or by-appointment hours, so call Citizens Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.

How do I get there and where do I park?

Citizens Bank is located in Tennessee — see the contact card for the full address. Most bank locations offer free on-site or nearby street parking for visitors. For exact directions, the entrance, and accessible parking, use the listed address or call ahead and staff can point you to visitor spaces.

Who owns or operates this listing?

This page is an independent directory listing for Citizens Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Citizens Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Citizens Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.

How current is the information on this page?

The core details for Citizens Bank — name, location, contact, and lender type — are compiled from public records and reviewed periodically. Rates, programs, credit policies, and hours change often and are not guaranteed here, so always confirm the latest terms directly with Citizens Bank before applying. If you represent Citizens Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.

How do I contact this listing directly?

You can reach Citizens Bank by phone at (866) 882-2265 or online at citizensbank24.com — the details are in the contact card on this page. For SBA loans specifically, ask for their business lending or SBA department. Treat this directory page as a starting point and confirm hours and contact details with Citizens Bank before relying on them.

What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?

Based on its approved SBA loans, Citizens Bank most often finances businesses in restaurants & food service, fitness & recreation, medical practices & clinics, general retail, gas stations & convenience, and salons, spas & personal care. This reflects Citizens Bank's real SBA 7(a) and 504 lending history rather than a stated policy — it can still consider other industries and sets its own current preferences, so confirm with Citizens Bank which sectors it actively lends to before you apply.

Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this branch?

SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether Citizens Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Citizens Bank and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.

Does this bank have Preferred Lender Provider status with the government?

SBA Preferred Lender Program (PLP) status lets a lender approve loans in-house without sending each one to the SBA first, which usually means faster decisions. Many established banks hold PLP status, but it varies by institution. Citizens Bank can confirm its current PLP standing — ask before you apply if speed matters to you.

Are start-up companies eligible for financing at this traditional institution?

The SBA does fund start-ups, but many traditional lenders prefer at least two years of operating history and may ask newer ventures for a larger equity injection or stronger collateral. Citizens Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Citizens Bank directly whether it considers start-up loans.

What are the typical down payment expectations for commercial real estate acquisitions?

For SBA 7(a) and 504 commercial real estate loans, borrowers typically contribute around 10% to 20% as a down payment or equity injection, depending on the property and the deal. Exact requirements vary with your credit, the business, and the lender's policy. Ask Citizens Bank what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.

Does this bank impose prepayment penalties on short-term working capital facilities?

SBA 7(a) loans with terms under 15 years generally carry no prepayment penalty, while longer real estate loans can have one in the early years. Short-term working capital lines often have no penalty, but terms vary by lender. Review your loan agreement and ask Citizens Bank to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.

Can I use loan proceeds from this bank to buy out an existing equity partner?

SBA loans can be used for a partner or owner buyout, including buying out an existing equity partner, when the deal is structured to meet SBA rules — for example, the remaining owner generally must stay actively involved. Approval depends on the specifics, so discuss your buyout plan with Citizens Bank to confirm it qualifies and how to document it.

Will historical personal bankruptcies automatically disqualify my loan application here?

A past personal bankruptcy does not automatically disqualify you from an SBA loan. Lenders look at how long ago it was discharged, the circumstances, and how your credit has recovered since. Citizens Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Citizens Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.

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