Guthrie County State Bank
Guthrie County State Bank is an active SBA lender in Iowa, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 5.0 stars across 1 Google reviews.
$5M
in SBA approvals since 2010
13
SBA loans funded
Auto Dealers & Sales · Construction & Contractors · General Retail
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Guthrie County State Bank
Guthrie County State Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending solutions tailored to small businesses seeking financial growth and stability. With a focus on supporting local entrepreneurs, this bank provides access to various SBA programs including the 7(a) loan program, which is ideal for working capital, equipment purchase, or real estate acquisition. Their team works closely with clients to understand their unique needs and guide them through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. Located at 505 E Main St in Panora, IA, Guthrie County State Bank is dedicated to fostering economic development within the community. The bank offers personalized service, competitive rates, and flexible terms to help small businesses succeed and expand. Whether you're starting a new venture or looking to grow an existing business, they provide the financial tools and expertise necessary to achieve your goals. Their commitment to local businesses makes them a trusted partner in the region, supporting economic vitality and job creation. With a history of supporting SBA programs, Guthrie County State Bank is well-equipped to assist small business owners in navigating the complexities of SBA lending and securing the funding they need to thrive.
Common questions about Guthrie County State Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a community-focused bank offering SBA loan programs and financial services tailored to small businesses in the Panora area. You can find personalized guidance, loan options, and support for business growth and development. The bank specializes in helping local entrepreneurs access funding through SBA programs like the 7(a) loan, providing a trusted resource for business financing needs.
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. Calling ahead can help you prepare and streamline your visit.
What are the hours of operation?
Guthrie County State Bank's lobby is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with drive-up service available starting at 8:00 a.m. Please confirm current hours directly with the bank.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for visiting the bank or consulting with a loan officer. Fees may apply for specific loan products or services, which will be disclosed upfront.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves residents and small business owners within the community and surrounding areas. Non-residents may need to meet certain criteria or have a relationship with the bank.
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 through this bank.
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 completeness of your application and the complexity of your loan request.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Guthrie County 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 Guthrie County State Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Guthrie County State Bank is located in Iowa — 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 Guthrie County State Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Guthrie County State Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Guthrie County 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 Guthrie County 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 Guthrie County State Bank before applying. If you represent Guthrie County State Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Guthrie County State Bank at (641) 755-2400 (Panora location) or via their online contact form at gcsbank.com/contact-us/. For SBA loans, ask for their business lending department.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, Guthrie County State Bank 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 bank sets its own industry preferences and may avoid sectors it considers higher risk. Ask Guthrie County State Bank directly which industries 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 Guthrie County State Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Guthrie County 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. Guthrie County 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. Guthrie County State Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Guthrie County 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 Guthrie County 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 Guthrie County 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 Guthrie County 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. Guthrie County State Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Guthrie County State Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
