SBA loan basics
Short answer
Beyond interest, the primary fee for an SBA 7(a) loan is an upfront SBA guaranty fee, which is a percentage of the guaranteed portion of the loan. Other fees may include packaging fees, closing costs, and appraisal fees.
The SBA charges a one-time guaranty fee to the lender, which is typically passed on to the borrower. This fee varies based on the loan amount and the guaranteed percentage. Lenders may also charge reasonable packaging fees, and borrowers are responsible for standard closing costs such as legal fees, appraisal fees, and environmental reports.
For a $1,000,000 loan with an 85% SBA guaranty, the upfront fee might be around 3.0% of the guaranteed portion, or $25,500. Additionally, the borrower might pay $5,000-$15,000 in closing costs.
7(a) Loan Program — Terms, Conditions, and Eligibility
U.S. Small Business Administration · Official SBA source
7(a) Fees Effective During Fiscal Year 2026
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
SBA 7(a) Loan Guaranty Fee Calculator
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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