SBA loan basics
Short answer
Yes, the maximum loan amount for an SBA 7(a) loan is $5,000,000. This is the total principal amount, not just the SBA-guaranteed portion.
The SBA sets a statutory maximum loan amount for the 7(a) program at $5 million. This limit applies to the total amount of the loan, regardless of the SBA's guaranty percentage, and ensures the program remains focused on small businesses.
A borrower needs $6,000,000 to buy a business. They can only get up to $5,000,000 through the SBA 7(a) program. The remaining $1,000,000 would need to be financed through other means or reduced from the purchase price.
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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