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SBALendersUSA

Cathay Bank

Bank2.8(29)

Cathay Bank is an active SBA lender in California, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 2.8 stars across 29 Google reviews.

$516M

in SBA approvals since 2010

531

SBA loans funded

Wholesale & Distribution · Hotels & Lodging · General Retail

Top industries financed

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

About Cathay Bank

Cathay Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small and medium-sized businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or operational needs. With a focus on personalized banking solutions, it provides expertise in SBA 7(a) loans, helping clients secure funding up to $637,000 for various business purposes. The bank's experienced team guides borrowers through the application process, ensuring clarity and efficiency. Located in Los Angeles, CA, it serves a diverse business community with a commitment to fostering economic development and supporting entrepreneurial ventures. The bank's SBA program history reflects a strong track record of successful approvals and client satisfaction, making it a reliable partner for your business financing needs. Whether you're looking for working capital, equipment financing, or real estate loans, Cathay Bank is equipped to assist with flexible terms and competitive rates. Its dedicated staff understands the nuances of SBA lending and works closely with clients to tailor solutions that match their unique circumstances. This bank emphasizes customer service, transparency, and a thorough understanding of small business challenges, positioning it as a trusted resource for entrepreneurs in the region.

Serves SBA borrowers in 6 states

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

Industries Cathay Bank finances

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

Common questions about Cathay Bank

What is this place and what can I find here?

This is a bank that provides SBA loan options and financial services tailored to small and medium-sized businesses. You can find assistance with funding, guidance through the application process, and personalized banking solutions to support your business growth.

Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?

It's recommended to schedule an appointment to meet with a loan officer for personalized service, but walk-in consultations may be available during business hours depending on availability.

What are the hours of operation?

The bank typically operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. It's best to call ahead to confirm hours or schedule an appointment.

Is there a fee to use this?

There are no fees for simply visiting the bank; however, loan processing and application fees may apply depending on the services used.

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

This bank primarily serves small business owners and residents in the region, but eligibility depends on meeting specific credit and business criteria.

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

Typically, a minimum personal credit score of 680 is preferred, but other factors like business performance and collateral are also considered.

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

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

Is this open on weekends?

Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Cathay 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 Cathay Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.

How do I get there and where do I park?

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

How current is the information on this page?

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

How do I contact this listing directly?

You can reach Cathay Bank by phone at (213) 625-4791 or online at cathaybank.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 Cathay Bank before relying on them.

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

Based on its approved SBA loans, Cathay Bank most often finances businesses in wholesale & distribution, restaurants & food service, general retail, manufacturing, hotels & lodging, and medical practices & clinics. This reflects Cathay 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 Cathay 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 Cathay Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Cathay 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. Cathay 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. Cathay Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Cathay 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 Cathay 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 Cathay 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 Cathay 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. Cathay Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Cathay Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.

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