SBA loan basics
Short answer
For SBA 7(a) loans that do not involve real estate, such as those for working capital, equipment, or business acquisition (without property), the maximum repayment term is generally 10 years.
The SBA sets maximum loan maturities based on the assets financed. When a loan primarily finances working capital, inventory, equipment, or the goodwill of an acquired business without real estate, the longest permissible term is 10 years. This aligns with the typical useful life of such assets and the nature of these expenditures.
A borrower obtains a $400,000 SBA 7(a) loan solely to acquire an existing service business and provide working capital. The repayment schedule would be structured over a maximum 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
SBA 7(a) Loans Overview
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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