It is likely at some point a business owner will need an outside financing source to purchase a new or used piece of equipment or even to supplement working capital needs. In times like this, the resources of your community bank are essential to helping you maintain smooth business operations. First Community Bank and Trust provides personalized support and flexible financing solutions to address your commercial loan needs.  

As a business owner, you may ask “how do I start the process for a commercial loan?”  This is certainly a valid question if you’ve never applied for this type of loan in the past. Follow these steps to begin the application process:

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine how much you need and for what purposes, whether it’s for equipment, working capital, or expansion.
2. Contact Us: Call John Lockie, Senior Vice President – Commercial Lending, at (708) 946-2246 to discuss your commercial loan needs. He can set up an appointment to meet with you at your place of business or our Beecher or Peotone Financial Centers. He’ll discuss your options and answer all your questions.
3. Prepare Documentation: Gather financial information for the loan review process:
   • Last (3) Years Business Tax Returns (Federal only)
   • Last (3) Years Personal Tax Returns (Federal only)
   • Complete a Personal Financial Statement (will be provided)

Depending on your financing requirements, additional paperwork may be requested, but having the above items is definitely a great place to start. If you do not have the time or capability to provide these documents, many customers simply have their accountant forward these items to the bank via a secure portal. Once the information is received by FCBT, the bank’s commercial lending staff will keep you informed during the process and communicate with you should there be any questions.

Remember, as a community bank, we make all loan decisions “in-house”, which results in a much quicker decision process that we think you’ll appreciate. This is what sets us apart from the larger banks and online lenders. 

FCBT is dedicated to being a long-term financial partner in the community, providing essential services to small and large companies and corporations. We value your business and aim to be a reliable resource for your financial needs. Reach out to us today – we’re here to help. You won’t regret it!

About First Community Bank and Trust
First Community Bank and Trust is a privately-owned bank. Established in 1916 First Community Bank and Trust has been serving Beecher, IL, Peotone, IL and the surrounding communities for over 108 years. Our commitment to providing the best banking products and services is matched only by our outstanding customer service. We offer traditional community banking services, including mortgage, consumer, and commercial lending, as well as state of the art electronic banking services.

Press Contact:
Steve Koehn, Senior Vice President
First Community Bank and Trust
(708) 946-2246

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