SBA-backed loans offer the lowest interest rates and longest repayment terms available to small businesses. We'll match you with an SBA-approved lender — free.
Privacy Secured | No Obligation | Won't Affect Your Credit Score
The SBA offers several loan programs, each designed for different business needs and sizes.
| Program | Best For | Max Amount | Max Term | Typical Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SBA 7(a) | Working capital, equipment, real estate, acquisitions | $5M | 25 years | Prime + 2.25–4.75% |
| SBA 504 | Major fixed assets (real estate, heavy equipment) | $5.5M | 20–25 years | ~5.5–6.5% fixed |
| SBA Microloan | Startups and very small businesses | $50K | 6 years | 8–13% |
SBA loans have stricter requirements than conventional business loans, but the rates and terms are unmatched.
Your business must be a for-profit entity operating in the United States and meet SBA size standards for your industry.
Most SBA 7(a) and 504 programs require at least 2 years of operating history. Microloans may be available to startups.
A personal credit score of 650 or higher is typically required. Strong business financials can compensate for a lower score.
Lenders want to see that your business generates enough revenue to service the debt. A DSCR of 1.25x or higher is ideal.
You must not have defaulted on a prior government loan. Recent bankruptcies (within 3 years) will typically disqualify you.
Owners with 20%+ equity stake must personally guarantee the loan. Collateral is required when available.
SBA loans take longer to close but offer significantly better terms than conventional alternatives.
| Feature | SBA Loan | Conventional Loan |
|---|---|---|
| Interest Rate | Lower (prime-based) | Higher (market-based) |
| Repayment Term | Up to 25 years | Typically 1–10 years |
| Down Payment | 10–20% | 20–30% |
| Approval Time | 2–8 weeks | 1–5 business days |
| Collateral Required | When available | Often required |
| Best For | Long-term, large investments | Fast capital needs |
SBA 7(a) loans typically take 2–8 weeks from application to funding. SBA Express loans (up to $500K) can close in 36 hours. SBA 504 loans take 30–60 days due to the two-lender structure.
Yes — SBA 7(a) loans are one of the most common ways to finance a business acquisition. You can borrow up to $5M with as little as 10% down.
SBA 7(a) loans can be used for working capital, equipment, real estate, business acquisitions, and refinancing existing debt. SBA 504 loans are specifically for major fixed assets like commercial real estate and heavy equipment.
No — Releafly is a marketplace that connects you with SBA-approved lenders in our network. We do not lend money directly. Our service is always free to borrowers.
