
Community Star CU, Inc.
Community Star CU, Inc. is an active SBA lender in Ohio, a credit union offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.5 stars across 121 Google reviews.
$880K
in SBA approvals since 2015
8
SBA loans funded
General Retail · Restaurants & Food Service · Food Manufacturing & Processing
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Community Star CU, Inc.
Community Star CU, Inc. offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth and development. With a focus on community-oriented banking, this institution provides various loan options including SBA 7(a) loans, which are ideal for working capital, equipment, and expansion needs. Located in Elyria, Ohio, the bank prides itself on personalized service and flexible lending criteria to help local entrepreneurs succeed. Their experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring clarity and support at every step. Whether you're a startup or an established business, Community Star CU, Inc. aims to foster economic development in the region by providing accessible financing solutions. The bank also emphasizes quick turnaround times and competitive rates, making it a reliable partner for your business financing needs. Their commitment to community growth is reflected in their tailored loan programs, designed to meet diverse industry requirements. From small retail outlets to service providers, they support a broad spectrum of local businesses. If you're looking for a trusted lender with a community focus and SBA expertise, Community Star CU, Inc. is equipped to assist you in achieving your business goals.
Common questions about Community Star CU, Inc.
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a community-focused bank offering SBA loan programs and financial services tailored for small businesses in Elyria, Ohio. You can find assistance with business financing, growth strategies, and personalized banking solutions to support local entrepreneurs.
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 for general inquiries and initial consultations.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. It's advisable to call ahead for specific services or to confirm appointment availability.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for initial consultations, but standard loan application and processing fees may apply depending on the specific financing product.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
The bank primarily serves residents and small businesses within the community, but eligibility requirements depend on the specific loan program and application criteria.
What minimum personal credit score does this lender look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of 640 or higher is generally preferred, though other factors are also considered during the approval process.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the completeness of the application and supporting documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most credit unions keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Community Star CU, Inc. 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 Community Star CU, Inc. to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Community Star CU, Inc. is located in Ohio — 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 Community Star CU, Inc., an SBA-participating credit union. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Community Star CU, Inc. itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Community Star CU, Inc., you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Community Star CU, Inc. — 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 Community Star CU, Inc. before applying. If you represent Community Star CU, Inc., claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Community Star CU, Inc. by phone at (440) 365-7342 or online at commstar.org — 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 Community Star CU, Inc. before relying on them.
What core industries does this lender traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, Community Star CU, Inc. 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 Community Star CU, Inc. 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 Community Star CU, Inc. participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Community Star CU, Inc. 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. Community Star CU, Inc. 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. Community Star CU, Inc.'s appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Community Star CU, Inc. 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 Community Star CU, Inc. 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 Community Star CU, Inc. 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 Community Star CU, Inc. 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. Community Star CU, Inc. weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Community Star CU, Inc. how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.

