Self-Help FCU
Self-Help FCU is an active SBA lender in North Carolina, a credit union offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 2.5 stars across 37 Google reviews.
$15M
in SBA approvals since 2010
50
SBA loans funded
Wholesale & Distribution · Childcare & Early Education · Restaurants & Food Service
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Self-Help FCU
Self-Help FCU offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth and development. With a focus on community-oriented banking, they provide flexible financing options through the SBA 7(a) program, helping entrepreneurs access capital for various needs including working capital, equipment, and expansion projects. Their experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring clarity and support at every step. Located in Durham, NC, they serve local businesses with personalized service and competitive rates. The bank's commitment to fostering small business success is reflected in their supportive lending practices and community engagement initiatives. Whether you're starting a new venture or expanding an existing one, Self-Help FCU is dedicated to helping small businesses thrive with tailored financial solutions and expert advice.
Common questions about Self-Help FCU
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a community-focused financial institution offering SBA loans and banking services tailored for small businesses seeking growth capital and support.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment for personalized service, but walk-ins are also welcome during business hours.
What are the hours of operation?
The branch operates Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, with special hours on select days. It's best to call ahead for specific appointment times.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees to access basic banking services, but loan processing and application fees may apply depending on the service.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
Services are primarily available to members of the credit union, which includes residents of the community and eligible small business owners.
What minimum personal credit score does this lender look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of 640 is generally recommended, but approval depends on overall financial health and business viability.
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 the application and documentation provided.
Is this open on weekends?
Most credit unions keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Self-Help FCU 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 Self-Help FCU to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Self-Help FCU is located in North Carolina — see the contact card for the full address. Most credit union 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 Self-Help FCU, an SBA-participating credit union. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Self-Help FCU itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Self-Help FCU, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Self-Help FCU — 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 Self-Help FCU before applying. If you represent Self-Help FCU, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Self-Help FCU by phone at (919) 687-0585 or online at self-help.org — 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 Self-Help FCU before relying on them.
What core industries does this lender traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, Self-Help FCU 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 credit union sets its own industry preferences and may avoid sectors it considers higher risk. Ask Self-Help FCU directly which industries it actively lends to before you apply.
Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this lender?
SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether Self-Help FCU participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Self-Help FCU and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.
Does this lender 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 credit unions hold PLP status, but it varies by institution. Self-Help FCU can confirm its current PLP standing — ask before you apply if speed matters to you.
Are start-up companies eligible for financing at this lender?
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. Self-Help FCU's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Self-Help FCU 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 Self-Help FCU what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.
Does this lender 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 Self-Help FCU to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.
Can I use loan proceeds from this lender 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 Self-Help FCU 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. Self-Help FCU weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Self-Help FCU how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
