Central State Bank
Central State Bank is an active SBA lender in Alabama, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.4 stars across 25 Google reviews.
$39M
in SBA approvals since 2010
78
SBA loans funded
Construction & Contractors · Childcare & Early Education · Restaurants & Food Service
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Central State Bank
Central State Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending solutions tailored to meet the needs of small businesses seeking financing options for growth, working capital, or acquisitions. With a focus on personalized service, the bank provides SBA 7(a) loans that help entrepreneurs access capital with flexible terms and competitive rates. Their experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring clarity and support at every step. Located conveniently in Calera, Alabama, the bank serves local businesses while also supporting regional economic development. Whether you're a startup or an established enterprise, Central State Bank aims to facilitate your business goals through tailored financial products and dedicated customer service. Their SBA programs are designed to accommodate various industries, with particular strength in sectors like healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. The bank’s commitment to small business success is reflected in their flexible lending criteria and proactive approach to client needs.
Industries Central State Bank finances
Business types Central State Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Central State Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a community-focused bank offering SBA loan programs, business financing, and personalized banking services designed to support small business growth and success.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It is 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 additional hours by appointment.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for basic banking services, but loan application and processing fees may apply for financing products.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves local residents and small businesses within the Alabama region, with some services available to out-of-area clients by appointment.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of 620 is generally required to qualify for SBA loans.
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 the application.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Central State 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 Central State Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Central State Bank is located in Alabama — 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 Central State Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Central State Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Central State Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Central State 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 Central State Bank before applying. If you represent Central State Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Central State Bank by phone at (205) 668-0711 or online at centralstatebank.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 Central State Bank before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Central State Bank most often finances businesses in restaurants & food service, medical practices & clinics, construction & contractors, and general retail. This reflects Central State 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 Central State 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 Central State Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Central State 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. Central State 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. Central State Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Central State 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 Central State 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 Central State 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 Central State 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. Central State Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Central State Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.

