
East West Bank
East West Bank is an active SBA lender in California, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.7 stars across 17 Google reviews.
$2.2B
in SBA approvals since 2010
2,790
SBA loans funded
Wholesale & Distribution · Restaurants & Food Service · Hotels & Lodging
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About East West Bank
East West Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending solutions tailored to small and medium-sized businesses seeking financial growth and stability. With a focus on supporting diverse industries, the bank provides access to various SBA loan programs including 7(a) and 504 loans, enabling businesses to secure funding for expansion, equipment, or working capital needs. Their experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from initial inquiry to loan closing. The bank's expertise in SBA lending helps entrepreneurs navigate complex requirements, making it easier to access the capital necessary for their business goals. Located in Pasadena, California, East West Bank combines local market knowledge with national lending capabilities to serve a broad client base. Whether you're a startup or an established enterprise, their SBA programs are designed to support your growth ambitions with flexible terms and competitive rates.
Serves SBA borrowers in 15 states
East West Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries East West Bank finances
Business types East West Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about East West Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a commercial bank offering SBA loan programs designed to help small and medium-sized businesses access funding for growth, equipment, or real estate projects. You can find support for various industries and tailored financing options to meet your business needs.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to meet with their SBA lending specialists, but walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability. Calling ahead ensures you receive dedicated time and personalized assistance.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank's branch hours are typically Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's best to contact the branch directly for specific appointment times or after-hours services.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for simply visiting or consulting; however, loan processing and guarantee fees apply when pursuing SBA financing options. These costs are disclosed during the application process.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank's SBA programs are open to qualified small businesses nationwide, regardless of residency, provided they meet the lending criteria and industry requirements.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 650 is generally preferred, but other factors such as cash flow and business history also influence approval decisions.
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 application and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and East West 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 East West Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
East West 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 East West Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by East West Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at East West Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for East West 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 East West Bank before applying. If you represent East West Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach East West Bank by phone at (626) 768-6088 or online at eastwestbank.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 East West Bank before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, East West Bank most often finances businesses in wholesale & distribution, restaurants & food service, general retail, medical practices & clinics, transportation & trucking, and manufacturing. This reflects East West 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 East West 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 East West Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact East West 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. East West 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. East West Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask East West 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 East West 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 East West 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 East West 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. East West Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask East West Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



