SBA loan basics
Short answer
The maximum loan amount for an SBA 7(a) loan is $5 million. This limit applies to the total principal amount of the loan.
The SBA sets a maximum loan amount to ensure the program primarily benefits small businesses. While the SBA guarantees a portion of the loan, the total principal amount that a lender can provide under the 7(a) program for any single borrower is capped at $5 million.
A business seeking $6 million for an expansion would not be able to get the entire amount through a single SBA 7(a) loan. They would need to reduce their request to $5 million or combine it with other financing sources.
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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