Merchants and Farmers Bank
Merchants and Farmers Bank is an active SBA lender in Arkansas, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.8 stars across 13 Google reviews.
About Merchants and Farmers Bank
Merchants and Farmers Bank provides comprehensive SBA loan services tailored to meet the needs of small businesses seeking financial support for growth and development. With a focus on the local Dumas community, this bank offers various SBA programs including the popular 7(a) loan program, which is ideal for funding working capital, equipment, or real estate acquisitions. 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. The bank's commitment to supporting small business success is evident in their personalized approach and flexible lending options. Whether you're a startup or an established business, Merchants and Farmers Bank aims to provide accessible financing solutions to help you achieve your business goals. Their expertise in SBA lending, combined with a strong community presence, makes them a reliable partner for entrepreneurs in the Dumas area and beyond.
Common questions about Merchants and Farmers Bank
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 growth and expansion projects.
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-ins are also welcome during business hours.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours by appointment.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for visiting the bank; however, loan applications and processing may involve standard fees associated with SBA loans.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves local residents and small business owners within the region, but qualified applicants from outside the area may also apply.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of 620 is generally required for SBA loan eligibility.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes between 30 to 45 days, depending on the completeness of the application and supporting documents.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Merchants and Farmers 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 Merchants and Farmers Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Merchants and Farmers Bank is located in Arkansas — 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 Merchants and Farmers Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Merchants and Farmers Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Merchants and Farmers Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Merchants and Farmers 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 Merchants and Farmers Bank before applying. If you represent Merchants and Farmers Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Merchants and Farmers Bank by phone at (870) 382-4311 or via their online contact form at mfbanknet.com/contact-us. Confirm current contact details directly with the lender.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, Merchants and Farmers Bank 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 bank sets its own industry preferences and may avoid sectors it considers higher risk. Ask Merchants and Farmers Bank directly which industries 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 Merchants and Farmers Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Merchants and Farmers 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. Merchants and Farmers 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. Merchants and Farmers Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Merchants and Farmers 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 Merchants and Farmers 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 Merchants and Farmers 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 Merchants and Farmers 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. Merchants and Farmers Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Merchants and Farmers Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
