For SBA lenders
Short answer
The maximum aggregate outstanding loan amount for a single 7(a) borrower, including affiliates, is $5,000,000 across all 7(a) loans.
13 CFR 120.151 states the maximum amount of any 7(a) loan is $5,000,000. This is an aggregate limit, meaning the total outstanding principal balance of all 7(a) loans to a single borrower and its affiliates cannot exceed this amount. Lenders must check for existing SBA exposure.
A borrower applies for a $3,000,000 7(a) loan. The lender discovers the borrower and an affiliate already have $2,500,000 outstanding in other 7(a) loans. The new loan would be capped at $2,500,000 to meet the aggregate limit.
Insider move
Lenders must diligently check for existing SBA loans to the applicant and any affiliates to ensure the aggregate limit is not exceeded. Approving a loan that breaches this limit will result in a guaranty denial.
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
7(a) Loan Program — Terms, Conditions, and Eligibility
U.S. Small Business Administration · Official SBA source
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.
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