
Preferred Bank
Preferred Bank is an active SBA lender in California, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.8 stars across 6 Google reviews.
$55M
in SBA approvals since 2010
51
SBA loans funded
Restaurants & Food Service · Manufacturing · Wholesale & Distribution
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Preferred Bank
Preferred Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending solutions tailored to small and medium-sized businesses seeking financial growth and stability. With a focus on the 7A program, it provides flexible financing options for various business needs, including working capital, equipment purchases, and real estate acquisitions. The bank's experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. Located in Los Angeles, it serves a diverse client base across multiple industries, leveraging its strong banking expertise and local market knowledge. The bank's commitment to personalized service and competitive rates makes it a trusted partner for business owners looking to expand or strengthen their operations.
Industries Preferred Bank finances
Business types Preferred Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Preferred Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a financial institution offering SBA loan programs, including the 7A program, to help small businesses access capital for growth and operational needs. You can find personalized assistance and flexible financing options tailored to your business goals.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a loan specialist, but walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability. Contact the branch in advance for the best experience.
What are the hours of operation?
The branch operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Hours may vary on holidays or special occasions, so it's best to call ahead.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees to visit the branch, but loan processing and application fees may apply depending on the financing options selected. These fees are discussed during the application process.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This branch primarily serves small and medium-sized businesses in the Los Angeles area. Business owners must meet specific eligibility criteria for SBA loans but do not need to be residents or members of the bank.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of 640 is typically required, though higher scores may improve approval chances and loan terms.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process usually 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 Preferred 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 Preferred Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Preferred 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 Preferred Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Preferred Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Preferred Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Preferred 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 Preferred Bank before applying. If you represent Preferred Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Preferred Bank by phone at (213) 891-1188 or email SBALending@preferredbank.com for SBA loan inquiries — confirm details directly with the bank.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Preferred Bank most often finances businesses in restaurants & food service and wholesale & distribution. This reflects Preferred 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 Preferred 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 Preferred Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Preferred 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?
Yes, Preferred Bank holds official SBA Preferred Lender Program (PLP) designation, which allows them to approve qualifying SBA loans in-house — confirm current status directly with the bank.
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. Preferred Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Preferred 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 Preferred 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 Preferred 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 Preferred 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. Preferred Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Preferred Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



