SBA loan basics
Short answer
The average repayment term for an SBA 7(a) loan varies significantly by the use of proceeds, typically 10 years for business acquisition/working capital and 25 years for real estate.
While there isn't a single 'average,' the maximum terms guide the typical terms. Most loans for non-real estate assets or business acquisitions are structured with 10-year terms. Loans involving real estate usually take advantage of the maximum 25-year term to reduce monthly payments.
A loan solely for equipment and working capital would likely be structured with a 10-year term. A loan for buying a building for the business would be structured for 25 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 2026-06-14. 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.
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