SBA Loans
Government-backed loans with long terms and some of the lowest payments available to small businesses.
- Amounts
- Up to $50K (Microloan) to $5.5M (504)
- Terms
- Up to 10 yrs; 25 yrs for real estate
- Rates
- SBA-capped, Prime + 3% to 6.5% by loan size
- Funding speed
- About 30–90 days
- Typical minimums
- 2+ yrs in business, ~650–680+ credit
Typical market ranges, not a quote. Actual amounts, rates and terms depend on the lender and your business profile.
How SBA loans work
SBA loans are made by banks and approved lenders and partially guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration. That guarantee lowers the lender's risk, which is why SBA loans typically offer longer repayment terms and lower payments than most conventional business loans.
They can be used for working capital, equipment, real estate, refinancing existing debt, or buying a business.
Every SBA loan program
Standard 7(a)
SBA's main loan for working capital, equipment, real estate, refinancing and buying a business.
7(a) Small
A streamlined 7(a) for smaller amounts, with lender decisions in about 2–10 business days.
SBA Express
Faster 7(a) term loans and revolving lines of up to 10 years.
504 Loans
Long-term financing through Certified Development Companies for real estate and major equipment.
Microloans
Smaller loans from nonprofit lenders for working capital, inventory and equipment; rates generally 8%–13%.
CAPLines
Seasonal, Contract, Builders and Working CAPLines for short-term and cyclical working capital.
Working Capital Pilot
Monitored lines of credit against receivables and inventory for established businesses.
Export Express
Financing to develop or grow your export sales.
Export Working Capital
Working capital for export orders, with lines of up to 36 months.
International Trade
Facilities, equipment and working capital for businesses competing internationally.
MARC (Manufacturers)
Manufacturers' Access to Revolving Credit for manufacturing businesses.
Disaster Loans
Physical damage, economic injury (EIDL) and Military Reservist EIDL loans after declared disasters.
Program limits from SBA.gov. Rates, fees and terms are set by each lender within SBA rules.
Best for
- Established businesses that want lower monthly payments
- Buying commercial real estate or another business
- Refinancing higher-cost debt
- Owners who can wait a few weeks for funding in exchange for better terms
What lenders look at
- Time in business (often 2+ years for most programs)
- Personal and business credit history
- Cash flow that comfortably covers the new payment
- Owner investment in the business
- Collateral, when available
- Complete financial statements and tax returns
Frequently asked questions
How long does an SBA loan take?
SBA loans involve more paperwork than most financing, so funding usually takes several weeks to a few months. SBA Express can move faster.
Do I need collateral for an SBA loan?
Lenders take available collateral on larger loans, but a lack of collateral alone isn't usually a reason for denial.
Can a startup get an SBA loan?
It's harder, but possible. Microloans and some 7(a) lenders work with newer businesses that have strong personal credit, industry experience and a solid plan.
Find the right SBA loans for your business
Answer a few quick questions and a funding specialist will match you with the options that fit your business.