Everything You Need to Know About SBA Loan Percentages and Terms

SBA loan percentages and terms can vary depending on loan type, amount, and purpose—but they’re consistently more favorable than traditional financing. Whether you're using an SBA 7(a) loan to buy an existing business, secure working capital, or refinance debt, understanding rates, terms, and requirements is key to structuring a deal that protects your cash flow.

What Is an SBA 7(a) Loan and How Does It Work?

The SBA 7(a) loan is the most common government-backed loan used for small business financing. It enables buyers to borrow up to $5 million for a variety of uses:‍

Buying an existing business
Working capital
Equipment or inventory
Real estate or leasehold improvements
Refinancing eligible business debt

The SBA doesn’t lend directly. Instead, it guarantees up to 85% of the loan through approved lenders, reducing the risk and encouraging banks to lend to entrepreneurs.

SBA 7(a) Loan Interest Rates in 2025

As of 2025, the Prime Rate is 7.50%. SBA loan percentages are structured as Prime + a lender-determined spread. Based on recent SBA acquisition loans, here’s the typical range:

Low end: Prime + 0.25% fixed for 5 years, then Prime + 1.75% variable
(Effective range: 7.75% → 9.25%)
High end: Prime + 3.00% variable for 10 years
(Effective rate: 10.50%)

Your actual rate will depend on:

Credit profile
Loan size and structure
Post-closing liquidity
Industry risk
Lender’s internal policy

SBA Loan Terms: What to Expect

SBA 7(a) loans are fully amortized, which means no balloon payments. Loan terms vary by purpose:

Business acquisitions: Up to 10 years
Working capital: Up to 10 years
Equipment loans: Up to 10 years
Commercial real estate: Up to 25 years

These longer repayment terms keep monthly payments manageable and support healthier post-acquisition cash flow.

Using an SBA Loan to Buy an Existing Business

Buying an existing business with an SBA loan is one of the most common uses of the 7(a) program. These loans allow you to leverage a small down payment into a fully operating business with existing revenue. To qualify, lenders typically expect:

A credit score of 680 or higher
A 10% equity injection (down payment)
Some relevant business experience
A well-prepared business plan and financial package

This is often referred to as a small business acquisition loan.

SBA Equity Injection: What the 10% Down Really Means

SBA requires at least 10% equity in any ownership transfer. That can be structured in three main ways:

Cash from Buyer – Most preferred. Lenders usually want at least 5% from liquid funds.
Seller Note on Partial Standby – No payments for 24 months; may count for up to 5%.
Seller Note on Full Standby – No payments until SBA loan is paid off; may count for full 10% depending on lender.

💡 Pro Tip: Even if SBA rules allow seller notes, most lenders want to see at least half of the equity injection in cash.

SBA Loan for Working Capital: How It Works

Need to smooth out cash flow or fund operational growth? An SBA loan for working capital might be the right fit.

Loan amounts: $30,000 – $5 million
Terms: Up to 10 years
Interest: Typically 9%–11% in 2025
Use cases: Payroll, rent, inventory, marketing, seasonal expenses

📈 Example: A retail business secures $150,000 at 10% interest over 7 years. Monthly payments would be ~$2,000—a flexible alternative to short-term loans or high-interest credit.

SBA Loan Closing Costs: What Should You Budget?

Closing costs for an SBA loan can run 2% to 6% of the total project cost. Expect to cover:

SBA guarantee fee
Legal fees (e.g., contract reviews)
Due diligence (quality of earnings reports)
Real estate-related costs (if applicable)
- Appraisal
- Phase I environmental
- Title insurance and surveys

✅ These costs are often financeable within the loan, but buyers should still plan for upfront cash needs.

Who Gets the Best SBA Loan Terms?

To secure favorable SBA loan percentages and terms, you’ll want to demonstrate:

A credit score of 680+
At least 5%–10% of the loan amount in post-close liquidity
Prior ownership or management experience
A comprehensive loan package, including financials and a business plan

Lenders want to work with organized buyers who reduce risk and can execute the business plan.

SBA Loan Percentages vs. Other Financing Options

‍Final Thoughts: Is an SBA Loan Right for You?

If you're considering an SBA loan for working capital or a business loan to buy an existing business, the 7(a) program offers unmatched flexibility and favorable terms.

At Pioneer Capital Advisory, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs: