SBA 7(a) Q&A
Short answer
The typical and maximum repayment period for an SBA 7(a) loan for a business acquisition without real estate is 10 years.
SBA policy dictates specific maximum maturities based on the primary use of loan proceeds. For business acquisition loans that do not include the purchase of real estate, the maximum allowable term is 10 years. Loans involving real estate can extend up to 25 years.
A buyer secures a $750,000 SBA 7(a) loan to purchase a consulting firm, covering goodwill, equipment, and working capital. The loan will have a maximum repayment period of 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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