SBA loan basics
Short answer
For SBA 7(a) loans used solely for equipment, the maximum repayment period is typically 10 years, or the useful life of the equipment, whichever is less.
The repayment term for equipment loans is tied to the expected useful life of the assets being financed. The SBA generally allows a maximum of 10 years for equipment. This ensures that the loan is repaid before the collateral significantly depreciates or becomes obsolete, protecting the lender's interest.
A dental practice obtains a $150,000 SBA 7(a) loan for new dental chairs and X-ray machines. The lender sets the repayment term at 10 years, aligning with the expected useful life of this specialized equipment.
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 2026-06-13. 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.
Terms in this answer
Pre-qualify your SBA 7(a) deal
Tell us the business, the price, and where you are — we'll point you to the lenders most likely to fund a deal like yours and flag anything that trips up approval.
Free · No documents · Usually same-day