For SBA lenders
Short answer
The typical maximum repayment term for an SBA 7(a) loan used solely for business acquisition (without real estate) is 10 years.
SBA loan terms are generally limited by the useful life of the assets being financed. For business acquisitions that primarily involve goodwill, equipment, and working capital, the maximum term is capped at 10 years. Loans with a real estate component can extend up to 25 years.
A buyer uses a $750,000 SBA 7(a) loan to purchase an existing service business, including its customer list, equipment, and working capital, but not its leased office space. The maximum loan term would be 10 years.
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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