SBA 7(a) Q&A
Short answer
Yes, lenders are allowed to charge reasonable and customary processing, origination, or packaging fees for SBA 7(a) loans, separate from SBA fees.
The SBA permits lenders to recover their costs associated with processing and originating loans. These fees must be transparent, reasonable, and customary for the specific type of loan and market. The SBA does not mandate specific amounts for these lender-originated fees but expects prudence and disclosure.
A lender processes an SBA 7(a) loan and charges a 1.5% origination fee on a $750,000 loan, amounting to $11,250. This fee is separate from the SBA's upfront guaranty fee and is generally acceptable if it is within industry standards and clearly disclosed.
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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