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SBALendersUSA

First Federal Bank

Bank4.9(144)

First Federal Bank is an active SBA lender in Florida, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.9 stars across 144 Google reviews.

$488M

in SBA approvals since 2010

643

SBA loans funded

Restaurants & Food Service · Hotels & Lodging · Childcare & Early Education

Top industries financed

Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).

About First Federal Bank

First Federal Bank is an SBA 7(a) and/or 504 lender with 643 approved SBA loans totaling $488M in 8 states since fiscal year 2010, per U.S. SBA FOIA records. Top industries financed: Restaurants & Food Service, Hotels & Lodging, Childcare & Early Education. Contact the bank directly for current programs and terms.

Serves SBA borrowers in 8 states

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

Industries First Federal Bank finances

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

Common questions about First Federal Bank

What is this place and what can I find here?

This is a local bank that offers SBA loan programs and financial services to support small business growth and development in the Lake City area.

Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?

Ask First Federal Bank directly — some branches take walk-ins, others book SBA conversations by appointment.

What are the hours of operation?

Hours vary by branch and change. Check First Federal Bank's website or call before you visit.

Is there a fee to use this?

Browsing this directory is free. Any loan fees are set by First Federal Bank and the SBA program — ask the lender for its current schedule.

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

This bank primarily serves local residents and small business owners in the Lake City area, but other clients may also be eligible.

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

Many SBA lenders look for a personal score around 640 or higher, but each bank sets its own bar and it changes. Ask First Federal Bank what it looks for today.

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 application and completeness of documentation.

Is this open on weekends?

Most bank SBA teams work weekdays; confirm with First Federal Bank before planning a weekend visit.

How do I get there and where do I park?

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

How current is the information on this page?

The core details for First Federal 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 First Federal Bank before applying. If you represent First Federal Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.

How do I contact this listing directly?

You can reach First Federal Bank by phone at (386) 755-0600 or online at www.ffbf.com/?utm_medium=yext&utm_source=gmb — the same details are in the contact card on this page.

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

Based on its approved SBA loans, First Federal Bank most often finances businesses in restaurants & food service, general retail, childcare & early education, medical practices & clinics, hotels & lodging, and manufacturing. This reflects First Federal 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 First Federal 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 First Federal Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact First Federal 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?

Whether First Federal Bank has SBA Preferred Lender (PLP) status is set by the SBA. Ask the bank directly; PLP lenders can approve in-house and often move faster.

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

First Federal Bank offers SBA 7(a) loans explicitly for startups, which provide multi-purpose funding for business establishment and growth. Confirm current startup credit and collateral requirements with their SBA lending team.

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 First Federal 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 First Federal 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 First Federal 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. First Federal Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask First Federal Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.

Not sure First Federal Bank is your best shot?

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