SBA loan basics
Short answer
The maximum loan amount for an SBA 7(a) loan is $5 million.
The SBA sets a maximum amount that lenders can issue under the 7(a) program, which is currently $5 million. While the SBA guarantees a portion, the actual loan is originated and funded by the participating lender up to this maximum.
A business needs $6 million to purchase a new facility. They could obtain a maximum of $5 million through an SBA 7(a) loan and would need to find alternative financing for the remaining $1 million, possibly through a conventional loan or a 504 loan.
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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