SBA 7(a) Loans — The Most Versatile SBA Program
The SBA 7(a) loan program is the Small Business Administration's most popular and flexible lending program. Whether you need working capital, want to purchase equipment, acquire a business, or buy commercial real estate, the 7(a) program can do it all — with terms up to 25 years and amounts up to $5 million.
What You Can Use an SBA 7(a) Loan For
The 7(a) is the Swiss Army knife of SBA loans. Unlike the 504 program which is limited to fixed assets, the 7(a) can be used for nearly any legitimate business purpose:
Fixed vs. Variable Rate: What You Need to Know
SBA 7(a) loans are commonly issued at variable rates tied to the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate plus a spread of 1.5% to 2.75%. In a stable or declining rate environment, variable rates can work well. However, when rates rise — as they have since 2022 — businesses with variable-rate SBA loans can see their monthly payments increase significantly.
Fixed-rate options are available and increasingly popular. If you already have a variable-rate SBA 7(a) loan, 3A Lending can analyze your current terms and show you exactly what a fixed-rate refinance could save you each month.
Already have a variable-rate SBA 7(a) loan?
Contact us for a free Loan Health Analysis. We'll show you side-by-side how much you could save by refinancing into a fixed rate.
SBA 7(a) Eligibility Requirements
Get Pre-Qualified for an SBA 7(a) Loan
No fees, no obligation. Find out what you qualify for in 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About SBA 7(a) Loans
How much can I borrow with an SBA 7(a) loan?
The maximum SBA 7(a) loan amount is $5 million. The SBA guarantees up to 85% of loans of $150,000 or less, and up to 75% of loans above $150,000. Terms can extend up to 25 years for real estate and 10 years for equipment.
What can I use an SBA 7(a) loan for?
SBA 7(a) loans can be used for nearly any legitimate business purpose: working capital, equipment purchases, commercial real estate, business acquisitions, partner buyouts, debt refinancing, inventory, and leasehold improvements.
Are SBA 7(a) loans fixed or variable rate?
SBA 7(a) loans can be either fixed or variable rate. Variable rates are tied to the Prime Rate plus a spread of 1.5% to 2.75%. Fixed-rate options are available and increasingly popular for businesses seeking predictable payments.
How long does SBA 7(a) loan approval take?
3A Lending provides pre-qualification decisions within 24 hours. Full SBA 7(a) loan approval typically takes 30 to 60 days depending on the complexity of the deal and completeness of documentation.