
Empire State Bank
Empire State Bank is an active SBA lender in New York, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.8 stars across 22 Google reviews.
$69M
in SBA approvals since 2011
93
SBA loans funded
General Retail · Construction & Contractors · Restaurants & Food Service
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Empire State Bank
Empire State 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 the Staten Island community and beyond, the bank provides various SBA loan programs including the popular 7(a) loan program, which is ideal for working capital, equipment purchases, and real estate acquisitions. The bank's experienced lending team guides clients through the application process, ensuring clarity and support at every step. They are committed to helping entrepreneurs access the funding they need to succeed, offering competitive rates and flexible terms. Whether you're a startup or an established business, Empire State Bank provides personalized solutions to meet your unique needs. Their expertise in SBA lending and local market knowledge make them a reliable partner for your business growth journey.
Serves SBA borrowers in 2 states
Empire State Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries Empire State Bank finances
Business types Empire State Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Empire State Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a local SBA lender offering small business loans and financial services designed to help entrepreneurs grow and succeed. You can find information about different SBA loan programs, application guidance, and personalized support for your business needs.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a lending specialist, but walk-ins may be accommodated based on availability. Contact the bank beforehand for the best experience.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank's typical hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's advisable to call ahead to confirm specific hours or schedule an appointment.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees to access basic information or initial consultations. Loan-specific fees apply during the application process, which will be transparently discussed with your lender.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves small business owners and entrepreneurs within the Staten Island area and surrounding regions. Business eligibility depends on meeting SBA program requirements.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 620 is generally preferred, but higher scores improve approval chances and terms.
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 Empire 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 Empire State Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Empire State Bank is located in New York — 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 Empire State Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Empire State Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire State Bank before applying. If you represent Empire State Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Empire State Bank by phone at (718) 351-0590 or online at esbna.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 Empire State Bank before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Empire State Bank most often finances businesses in general retail, construction & contractors, restaurants & food service, food manufacturing & processing, and wholesale & distribution. This reflects Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire State Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Empire 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. Empire 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. Empire State Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire 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. Empire State Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Empire State Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.


