SBA loan basics
Short answer
No, the SBA does not directly charge borrowers an application fee. However, borrowers are responsible for an SBA Guaranty Fee, which is typically financed into the loan, and some lenders may charge packaging fees.
The SBA charges a 'guaranty fee' to the lender, which is usually passed on to the borrower and can be financed into the loan. This fee helps offset the cost of the program. Lenders may also charge reasonable packaging or processing fees, which are subject to SBA regulations.
For a $500,000 loan, the SBA guaranty fee might be around $17,000 to $20,000, depending on the loan amount and repayment term. This fee is often added to the total loan amount, so the borrower doesn't pay it out-of-pocket upfront.
Lenders ensure that all fees charged to the borrower, including the SBA guaranty fee and any administrative fees, comply with SBA regulations regarding maximum allowable amounts and proper disclosure.
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
7(a) Fees Effective During Fiscal Year 2026
SBA 7(a) Loan Guaranty Fee Calculator
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.
More on loan fees
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