SBA loan basics
Short answer
The maximum repayment term for an SBA 7(a) loan depends on the use of proceeds, with the longest possible term being 25 years for real estate.
For real estate (including acquisition, construction, or renovation), the maximum term is 25 years. For equipment, it's typically up to 10 years. For working capital or business acquisition (without real estate), it's typically up to 10 years. Loans combining uses will have a blended maturity not exceeding 25 years.
If a business acquires a commercial building (real estate) and also needs working capital, the loan can have a 25-year term. If it's just for equipment and working capital, the maximum term would be 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
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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