Five Star Credit Union
Five Star Credit Union is an active SBA lender in Alabama, a credit union offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.9 stars across 127 Google reviews.
About Five Star Credit Union
Five Star Credit Union offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth, equipment, or operational needs. With a focus on personalized service, they assist clients through the SBA 7(a) program, providing flexible financing options up to $189,000. Their team understands the nuances of SBA loans and works closely with borrowers to streamline the application process, ensuring timely approval and funding. Located in Dothan, Alabama, they serve local businesses while also supporting regional economic development. Their expertise extends to various industries, with a strong emphasis on commercial real estate and equipment financing. Whether you're starting a new venture or expanding an existing business, Five Star Credit Union is committed to helping you access the capital you need to succeed.
Common questions about Five Star Credit Union
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a commercial bank offering SBA loan programs and financial services tailored for small businesses, including support for real estate, equipment, and working capital needs.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated service, but walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability.
What are the hours of operation?
Typically, they are open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, but it's best to confirm with the branch directly.
Is there a fee to use this?
Yes, fees may apply depending on the loan type and amount, but they are generally transparent and discussed upfront.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This lender primarily serves members of the credit union, but non-members may be eligible after membership approval.
What minimum personal credit score does this lender look for in a guarantor?
A minimum credit score of around 650 is typically required, though higher scores improve approval chances.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The process usually takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the loan and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most credit unions keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Five Star Credit Union 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 Five Star Credit Union to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Five Star Credit Union is located in Alabama — see the contact card for the full address. Most credit union 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 Five Star Credit Union, an SBA-participating credit union. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Five Star Credit Union itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Five Star Credit Union, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Five Star Credit Union — 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 Five Star Credit Union before applying. If you represent Five Star Credit Union, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Five Star Credit Union by phone at (888) 619-1711, email at membercarecenter@fivetsrcu.com, or online at fivestarcu.com. Please confirm current contact details directly with the lender.
What core industries does this lender traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, Five Star Credit Union can finance a broad range of small businesses — common categories include professional services, healthcare practices, restaurants and franchises, retail, light manufacturing, and commercial real estate. Each credit union sets its own industry preferences and may avoid sectors it considers higher risk. Ask Five Star Credit Union directly which industries it actively lends to before you apply.
Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this lender?
SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether Five Star Credit Union participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Five Star Credit Union and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.
Does this lender 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 credit unions hold PLP status, but it varies by institution. Five Star Credit Union can confirm its current PLP standing — ask before you apply if speed matters to you.
Are start-up companies eligible for financing at this lender?
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. Five Star Credit Union's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Five Star Credit Union 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 Five Star Credit Union what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.
Does this lender 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 Five Star Credit Union to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.
Can I use loan proceeds from this lender 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 Five Star Credit Union 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. Five Star Credit Union weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Five Star Credit Union how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
