
Guardian Bank
Guardian Bank is an active SBA lender in Georgia, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 2.8 stars across 11 Google reviews.
$21M
in SBA approvals since 2011
22
SBA loans funded
Hotels & Lodging · Manufacturing · Pharmacy & Medical Retail
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Guardian Bank
Guardian Bank is an SBA 7(a) and/or 504 lender with 22 approved SBA loans totaling $21M in 1 state since fiscal year 2011, per U.S. SBA FOIA records. Top industries financed: Hotels & Lodging, Manufacturing, Pharmacy & Medical Retail. Contact the bank directly for current programs and terms.
Common questions about Guardian Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is Guardian Bank, a regional bank offering SBA loan programs and business financing solutions. You can find assistance with SBA 7(a) and 504 loans, tailored to help small and medium-sized businesses grow and succeed.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
Ask Guardian Bank directly — some branches take walk-ins, others book SBA conversations by appointment.
What are the hours of operation?
Hours vary by branch and change. Check Guardian Bank's website or call before you visit.
Is there a fee to use this?
Browsing this directory is free. Any loan fees are set by Guardian Bank and the SBA program — ask the lender for its current schedule.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This service is primarily available to local residents and business owners in the region seeking SBA financing solutions.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
Many SBA lenders look for a personal score around 640 or higher, but each bank sets its own bar and it changes. Ask Guardian Bank what it looks for today.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process generally takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the loan and completeness of application materials.
Is this open on weekends?
Most bank SBA teams work weekdays; confirm with Guardian Bank before planning a weekend visit.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Guardian Bank is located in Georgia — 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 Guardian Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Guardian Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Guardian Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Guardian 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 Guardian Bank before applying. If you represent Guardian Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Guardian Bank by phone at (229) 241-9444 or online at www.guardian.bank — the same details are in the contact card on this page.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, Guardian 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 Guardian 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 Guardian Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Guardian 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?
Whether Guardian Bank has SBA Preferred Lender (PLP) status is set by the SBA. Ask the bank directly; PLP lenders can approve in-house and often move faster.
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. Guardian Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Guardian 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 Guardian 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 Guardian 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 Guardian 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. Guardian Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Guardian Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.


