SBA 7(a) Q&A
Short answer
Yes, a personal vehicle with significant equity can be contributed as equity if it is essential for the business operations and its value is independently appraised.
Non-cash assets, including personal property, can count towards equity injection if they are directly related to the business, valued by an independent appraiser, and transferred to the business. The SBA's primary concern is ensuring the asset is truly an unencumbered contribution of value to the business.
A landscaper buyer has a commercial-grade truck with $30,000 in equity. An independent appraiser values it, and it's transferred to the new business. This $30,000 counts towards the buyer's equity injection.
Insider move
Lenders will require an independent appraisal by a qualified professional to establish the fair market value. They will also verify that the vehicle is free of liens and properly transferred into the business's name.
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
Last checked 2026-06-14. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 · SBA sources checked through 2026-06-14. 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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