First Merchants Bank

This is a bank that provides SBA loan programs designed to help small and medium-sized businesses grow and succeed. You can find assistance with financing options like the SBA 7(a) program, personalized support, and guidance throughout the loan process.

It is recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a loan specialist, but walk-in consultations may also be available during business hours.

First Merchants Bank's Broad Ripple location in Indianapolis maintains business hours Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For specific appointment times or variations, confirm directly with the branch at (317) 287-0470.

There are no fees for visiting or consulting with the bank; however, loan processing and application fees may apply depending on the specific financing arrangement.

This bank primarily serves local residents and businesses in the Indianapolis area, but they welcome qualified applicants from the region seeking SBA financing.

Typically, a personal credit score of 640 or higher is preferred, though other factors may also influence approval decisions.

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

This location is closed on weekends and Saturday through Sunday. First Merchants Bank SBA lending staff are available Monday through Friday only.

First Merchants Bank is located in Indiana — 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.

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

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

You can reach First Merchants Bank by phone at (317) 287-0470 or online at firstmerchants.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 First Merchants Bank before relying on them.

Based on its approved SBA loans, First Merchants Bank most often finances businesses in construction & contractors, restaurants & food service, manufacturing, general retail, wholesale & distribution, and medical practices & clinics. This reflects First Merchants 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 First Merchants Bank which sectors it actively lends to before you apply.

SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether First Merchants Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact First Merchants Bank and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.

First Merchants Bank holds SBA Preferred Lender status, allowing them to approve loans in-house for faster decisions without SBA involvement per loan. Confirm current PLP programs with the branch.

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. First Merchants Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask First Merchants Bank directly whether it considers start-up loans.

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 First Merchants Bank what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.

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 First Merchants Bank to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.

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 First Merchants Bank to confirm it qualifies and how to document it.

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. First Merchants Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask First Merchants Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.