SBA loan basics
Short answer
The maximum repayment period for an SBA 7(a) loan depends on what the loan funds are used for, typically up to 10 years for working capital and equipment, and up to 25 years for real estate.
SBA sets maximum maturities to align with the useful life of the assets being financed. For loans primarily used for working capital or equipment, the maximum term is usually 10 years. If a significant portion of the loan is for real estate (purchase or construction), the maximum term can extend to 25 years. The average blended term is used for mixed-use loans.
If a $1 million loan is used 80% for real estate purchase and 20% for working capital, the loan could be structured with a 25-year repayment term due to the predominant real estate component.
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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