SBA 7(a) Q&A
Short answer
Yes, the SBA guaranty fee can be reduced or waived for certain types of loans, such as those made to veterans or very small loans, depending on current SBA policy.
The SBA periodically adjusts its fee schedule and offers waivers or reductions for specific initiatives. For example, loans to eligible veterans often qualify for a reduced or waived upfront guaranty fee. Also, loans under a certain threshold (e.g., $50,000) typically have no upfront guaranty fee.
If you are an eligible veteran applying for a $300,000 SBA 7(a) loan, you might qualify for a zero upfront guaranty fee, saving several thousand dollars, based on the current fiscal year's policy.
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.
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