For SBA lenders
Short answer
Yes, the SBA upfront guaranty fee can be waived for specific loan programs, such as certain Export Loan programs, or for specific borrower categories like veteran-owned businesses, depending on current fiscal year policies.
While typically a standard fee applies, the SBA may, through annual policy notices or specific program mandates, waive or reduce the upfront guaranty fee. For example, some export-related 7(a) loans (e.g., Export Express, International Trade Loans) have had reduced or waived fees. Similarly, veteran-owned businesses have sometimes benefited from fee waivers. Lenders must consult the latest SBA Policy Notices for the relevant fiscal year to confirm current fee structures and waivers.
A veteran-owned small business applies for a $200,000 7(a) loan. The lender checks the current fiscal year's fee schedule and finds that the upfront guaranty fee for loans under $350,000 to veteran-owned businesses is waived. The lender would then not charge this fee.
7(a) Loan Program — Terms, Conditions, and Eligibility
U.S. Small Business Administration · Official SBA source
7(a) Fees Effective During Fiscal Year 2026
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
Last checked 2026-06-13. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 · SBA sources checked through 2026-06-13. DealRoom analysis of public SBA 7(a) lending records (FY2020–present). Grounded in the current SBA rulebook; verify against the official sources above before relying on it for a live deal. Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision.
More on guaranty fees
Terms in this answer
Pre-qualify your SBA 7(a) deal
Tell us the business, the price, and where you are — we'll point you to the lenders most likely to fund a deal like yours and flag anything that trips up approval.
Free · No documents · Usually same-day