SBA Loan

SBA Loans

Invest in Your Success: Apply for an SBA Loan Online

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What is an SBA Loan?

SBA loans are business loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration. SBA guaranteed loans can range from small to large and can be used for most business purposes. With their multiple SBA funding programs, this agency provides SBA loan guarantees of up to 85% of the loan amount provided through an SBA-approved lender— such as Upwise. The SBA agency reduces risk and enables easier access to capital for small business owners across the United States. The three main SBA loan programs let you borrow money for nearly any business purpose—including working capital, purchasing inventory or equipment, refinancing other debts/loans, or buying real estate—through these SBA-guaranteed loans. Take into account that some SBA loan programs set restrictions on how you can use the funds, so make sure to check with your Upwise SBA loan specialist.

What is considered an SBA loan? The SBA stands for the Small Business Administration (SBA) and is the government agency that partially guarantees SBA loans and this agency was founded in 1953 to support small business owners financially across the United States. Here we will go over the costs, qualifications, use of proceeds, underwriting process, timeline to funding, and more to help you determine whether this type of loan is the best option to finance the growth of your small business.

Types of SBA Loans

Discover the ideal government backed business loan tailored to meet the unique needs of your business.

Loan Amount

Up to $5 million

SBA 7(a) Loans

Get revolving funds when you need it and only pay interest on what you draw. 

Purpose

Working capital, expansion, and equipment purchases. 

Loan Amount

Up to $5 million

SBA 504 Loans

Provides growing businesses with financing for real estate and long-lasting capital investments.

Purpose

Purchase, renovate or acquire land, facilities, machinery, furniture or fixtures.

Loan Amount

Up to $500,000

SBA Express Loans

With an expedited process, borrow from participating lenders as a term loan or line of credit. 

Purpose

Working capital, expansion, renovation, equipment purchases and debt refinancing. 

Loan Amount

Up to $50K

SBA Microloans

Smaller sized loans designed to provide financing to traditionally underserved businesses.

Purpose

Use for working capital, supplies, inventory, machinery, vehicles, and equipment. 

Loan Amount

Up to $5 million

SBA Export Working Capital Loans

Used for working capital to fill cash flow gaps and support export sales. 

Purpose

Production of goods & services for export, invoices and purchase orders.

Loan Amount

Up to $500,000

SBA Export Express Loans

Get quick access to expedited loans to support a business’s export opportunities.

Purpose

Use for production, shipping, inventory, marketing and receivables.

Loan Amount

Up to $5 million

SBA International Trade Loans

Access long-term financing to grow your export sales globally and upgrade operations to remain competitive with international rivals.

Purpose

Import raw materials, finance foreign account receivables, export order fulfillment.

Loan Amount

Up to $2 million

SBA Disaster Loans

Repair physical damage to property caused by a declared disaster and bridge the loss of revenue and increased operating costs.

Purpose

Cover items such as repairs, replacement, renovation, rent and payroll.

SBA Loan Pros vs Cons

PROS

Suitable for a Wide Range of Business Purposes

Flexible Terms & Low Interest Rates 

Security from the SBA = Lenders Approve Higher Amounts

CONS

Tight/Strict Lending Standards

Extensive Documentation Process

Longer Funding Speed Compared to Other Products

How does an SBA Loan work?

SBA loans are originated by a bank and the SBA provides a guarantee on the loan, promising to reimburse the bank for a certain percentage of the loan in the event of a default. The SBA agency does not typically make direct loans which is a common misunderstanding amongst small business owners. The guarantee by the SBA lowers the risks to lenders, encouraging them to offer these loans to more American small businesses. Upwise has partnered with many banks and other financial institutions that offer SBA loans, but their process, requirements, and fees can vary, including an upfront guarantee fee and an annual service fee. Their repayment structure also typically fully amortizes over the term, so borrowers do not face hidden balloon payments at the end.

Who Qualifies for an SBA Loan?

SBA loans offer some of the most competitive rates and longest repayment terms available to small business owners, but they also have stricter qualification requirements than many alternative financing options.

While every lender has its own underwriting guidelines, most SBA-approved lenders evaluate a borrower’s credit history, business financials, cash flow, and ability to repay the loan. Both established businesses and startups may qualify, depending on the SBA loan program and the strength of the application.

Typical SBA Loan Requirements

  • Minimum 620 personal FICO score from all three credit bureaus
  • For-profit business operating in the United States
  • Demonstrated ability to repay the loan
  • Strong personal and business credit history
  • Sufficient cash flow to support loan payments
  • Business owner investment in the company
  • No recent bankruptcies, foreclosures, or serious credit issues

What SBA Lenders Look For

When evaluating an SBA loan application, lenders typically review:

  • Personal credit score
  • Business credit profile
  • Business tax returns
  • Profit and loss statements
  • Balance sheets
  • Business bank statements
  • Existing debt obligations
  • Industry experience and management background

Can Startups Qualify for SBA Loans?

Yes. Certain SBA loan programs are designed to help entrepreneurs start a new business or acquire an existing business. Startups may be required to provide additional documentation, business plans, financial projections, and equity injections depending on the transaction.

How Long Does the SBA Loan Process Take?

SBA financing requires more documentation and underwriting than most online business loans. While expedited SBA programs may be available for smaller loan amounts, larger transactions often require additional review.

Typical timelines include:

  • SBA loans under $350,000: Often funded more quickly through streamlined programs
  • SBA loans over $350,000: Typically 30 to 45 business days from application to funding
  • Complex transactions involving real estate or business acquisitions may take longer

Important Considerations

Be cautious of any lender or broker promising SBA funding within a few days. SBA loans involve a detailed underwriting and approval process designed to verify a business’s ability to repay the loan. Businesses that demonstrate profitability, strong credit history, and responsible debt management often have the highest likelihood of approval.

At Upwise Capital, our SBA specialists help business owners navigate the application, underwriting, and approval process from start to finish, helping simplify one of the most powerful financing programs available to small businesses.

SBA Loan Requirements

Profitability

Over 10% Profit

credit score

over 650+

Annual revenue

over $200K

time in business

2+ years

* Note: These SBA loan requirements are based on previous Upwise customers and is just an average.

Open the Door to Financial Freedom With The Gold Standard of Business Loans.

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Kwon Jason
1 month ago
Leo helped me from the beginning and to the end of this whole process. He helped me to feel at ease and is highly reliable. Thank you.
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Trisha Smith
5 months ago
Working with Mike Kowal was truly an exceptional experience from start to finish. He was personable, highly responsive, and consistently communicative, taking the time to educate me throughout the entire process so I fully understood what was happening at every step.

What truly set Mike apart was his honesty. He reviewed multiple lender options with me in a fair, transparent way, walking me through the pros and cons of each and helping me understand every angle. He encouraged me to move forward only with what felt right for my business, never once making me feel pressured to choose him or Upwise. That level of professionalism is rare.

Mike also worked hard to build genuine personal rapport — something no other representative I spoke with did. He took the time to understand my business, explored different paths, and made sure I felt confident and comfortable throughout the decision-making process.

The follow-up from Mike and every member of his team has been above and beyond anything I’ve experienced with other lenders. Every interaction feels thoughtful, client-focused, supportive and most important- genuine. I’m incredibly grateful for the experience and would confidently recommend Mike to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, ethical, and truly client-first lending partner.
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HMP Wholesale
6 months ago
Convenient and aggressively priced rates - beats the market. Craig was great at speeding up the process and making it smooth.
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brandon banks
6 months ago
I was able to secure a business loan in an industry that typically has a hard time getting approved. Craig and the team at Upwise made it happen from start to finish. Professional, responsive, and results-driven. A+ experience all around!
Upwise Capital and Daniel Joseph were great in helping me obtain financing and grow my janitorial business. Mr. Joseph is quick, efficient and professional. Funding was complete in just a few hours. Daniel is very detailed and easy to work with. He stuck with me from beginning to end. Thank you Upwise Capital and Daniel for helping to expand my business. I appreciate all your help.
The rates for loans are horrible, and if you disagree with them, they get angry and hang up on you lol. It is clear they are in business to get the best deal for themselves, not the customer. Leo Lamb, one of their funding managers comes across like a used car salesman. When I called them out for their shady practices, he got very aggravated.

Update: Leo contacted me, and after basically insulting me concerning their prior behavior, I decided to let them run my application. After being ghosted for the day, they finally came back and denied due to another loan my business was involved in. These people get their feelings hurt way to easy to be in this business. I would not recommend this company to anyone.
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Stacy Aleixo
11 months ago
The process was very simple and fast! Craig is a pro and helped so much during what I thought would be a stressful transaction. As we know it’s so hard to receive funding for cannabis, or so I thought! I highly recommend Upwise Capital.
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Jonathan F
2 years ago
Timely efficient, def would work with again, made the processs easy
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Hatchet's & More
2 years ago
Absolutely great customer service. Jim is such a professional and was able to get us funding. Thanks Jim and Upwise Capital.
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Nothing But Hemp
2 years ago
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Donna Essner
2 years ago
Craig went above and beyond to get this deal done! I would highly recommend UpWise Capital if you're looking for a broker to get investors onboard.
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Merideth Cann
2 years ago
Leo provided a very quick turn around and is a pleasure to work with !
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Alba De La Cruz
2 years ago
I worked with Leo. He is very attentive and professional.
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Mohamed Khanafer
3 years ago
Craig made himself available all the time, he was very attentive, professional and easy to work with. Highly recommend!
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Tammy Sockwell
3 years ago
We worked with Leo for our line of credit. We are a trucking company an can be a challenge to secure financing. The process was smooth and fast funding. Our only complaint would be that Leo was a little impatience when it came to our decision making. We are very thankful for the funding and would do business with them again. Thanks,
Upwise
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Sharon Johnson
3 years ago
Leo got us a line of credit loan very quickly to help with expenses we incurred during our new business building purchase.
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Mike Maffei
3 years ago
You are always hesitant when working with a finance firm to borrow money to grow your company But, I highly recommend Upwise Capital. Lou and Marc went out of their way to ensure everything was taken care of. Very professional in all steps taken to secure the financing I needed. I look forward to continuing the business relationship.
I rarely write reviews, but my experience with Leo was absolutely. Leo was patient, knowledgeable, and extremely responsive. During a hectic work week he continued to bare with me to be sure that i had all the information I was requesting. He got me the capital I needed within one day. I highly recommend this company!

What does an SBA Loan cost?

Small business Administration loans tend to be the least expensive financing option available to small business owners.  SBA rates can vary depending on the lender that you work with and the amount of money you qualify for, but all interest rates must be within Small business Administration guidelines.

The SBA establishes the minimum and maximum amount that can be charged for these loans. SBA loans from Upwise marketplace banks can have fixed or variable interest rates and depend on the loan amount, lender, and Small business Administration loan program type. Low rates are a major advantage of SBA loans compared with many other small-business financing options. SBA interest rates are based on the Wall Street Prime Rate + anywhere from 2.25 – 4.25% depending on the loan product.

Apply for an SBA Loan Now.

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Get in touch now achieve your goals with an SBA Loan.

Name(Required)

Documents You'll Need to Apply

Driver’s License

Voided Business Check

Business Bank Statements (Last 4 Months)

Credit Score

Collateral Information

You may also be requested to provide the following for larger dollar amounts over $100K:

Credit Application

Balance Sheets

Profit & Loss Statements

2 Years Business Tax Returns

2 Years Personal Tax Returns

You’ve got big plans to take your business further – now you just need a way to make them happen. That’s where SBA loans come in! These programs are specially designed to fuel growth for companies of all sizes. With their backing, lenders can offer better terms than many other loans.

We’re here to help you find the right SBA option for your needs. Whether you’re looking at equipment, real estate, payroll or anything else, these loans have very flexible uses. And the application process is simple and straightforward. Just give us a call and we’ll guide you from start to finish. You focus on building your business – let us help secure the funds to spark your vision into reality!

Small Business Administration (SBA) Loan Types Chart

Maximum Loan Amount:  $5 Million

Maximum SBA Guarantee: 85% for loans up to $150,000 and 75% for loans greater than $150,000

Interest Rate:  Lenders and borrowers can negotiate the interest rate, but it may not exceed the SBA maximum

Eligibility Decision:  By the SBA. Qualified lenders may be granted delegated authority (PLP) to make eligibility determinations without SBA review.

Revolving Lines of Credit:  Up to 10 years (Permitted only under CAPLines submission. See below)

SBA Turn Around Time: 5-10 business days

Forms: SBA Form 1919 and SBA Form 1920 are required for every loan (other SBA Forms may be required)

Collateral:  Lenders are not required to take collateral for loans up to $25,000. For loans in excess of $350,000, the SBA requires that the lender collateralize the loan to the maximum extent possible up to the loan amount. If business fixed assets do not “fully secure” the loan the lender may include trading assets (using 10% of current book value for the calculation), and must take available equity in the personal real estate (residential and investment) of the principals as collateral.

Credit Decision:  By the SBA. Qualified lenders may be granted delegated authority (PLP) to make credit decisions without SBA review.

Why Upwise for SBA Loans

Quick & easy application

Our simple 15-minute application gets you on your way to funding quickly. Most applicants receive a fast decision within hours of applying. Then just choose your loan terms and you could have funds deposited into your account as soon as 24 hours.

Ensure you make the wise choice

Every Upwise applicant gets a dedicated funding advisor who takes the time to understand your business and it's unique needs. We are here for your support throughout the entire funding process.

Access multiple financing options

Upwise has an extensive product suite and a network of 100+ lenders. This means you're more likely to find the best match for your funding needs.

business funding

SBA loans — key information

Provided by Upwise Capital · upwisecapital.com/sba-loans

Up to $5M
Funding amount
Up to 25 yrs
Max. term
30–90 days
Funding timeline
650+
Typical credit score
SBA-backed
Guarantee
SBA Loan Programs
SBA 7(a) Loan
  • General-purpose business financing
  • Working capital
  • Equipment purchases
  • Business acquisitions
  • Debt refinancing
  • Commercial real estate
SBA 504 Loan
  • Owner-occupied commercial real estate
  • Construction projects
  • Major equipment purchases
  • Long-term fixed asset financing
SBA Express Loan
  • Streamlined approval process
  • Faster credit decisions
  • Working capital
  • General business expenses

Qualification requirements

  • Personal credit history
  • Business cash flow
  • Time in business
  • Industry experience
  • Debt service coverage
  • Available collateral when applicable

Common uses

  • Working capital
  • Business expansion
  • Equipment financing
  • Commercial real estate purchases
  • Partner buyouts
  • Business acquisitions
  • Debt refinancing

SBA loans vs. conventional loans

  • SBA: Government-backed financing
  • SBA: Longer repayment terms
  • SBA: Lower down payment requirements in many cases
  • SBA: Competitive interest rates
  • Conventional: Faster funding in some situations
  • Conventional: Fewer government requirements
  • Conventional: May require stronger qualifications

Best for

  • Established businesses
  • Business acquisitions
  • Commercial real estate purchases
  • Expansion projects
  • Equipment investments
  • Long-term growth initiatives

Key benefits

  • Competitive interest rates
  • Longer repayment terms
  • Higher borrowing limits
  • Lower monthly payments
  • Flexible use of proceeds
  • Wide variety of eligible business purposes

Frequently asked questions

How much can I borrow with an SBA loan?
Many SBA loan programs provide financing up to $5 million, although eligibility and approval amounts vary by lender and borrower qualifications.
Do SBA loans require collateral?
Collateral requirements vary by loan amount, lender, and program. Some SBA loans may require available business or personal assets as collateral.
What credit score is needed for an SBA loan?
While requirements vary by lender, many SBA borrowers have personal credit scores of 650 or higher.
How long does it take to get an SBA loan?
Most SBA loans require 30 to 90 days from application to funding, depending on the complexity of the transaction and the documentation provided.
What is the difference between an SBA 7(a) and SBA 504 loan?
The SBA 7(a) is a general-purpose program covering working capital, equipment, acquisitions, and real estate. The SBA 504 is designed for owner-occupied commercial real estate, construction, and major fixed asset purchases with long-term financing.

Interested in SBA financing? Start your application and connect with an SBA-approved lender.

Apply Now →

Final Thoughts on SBA Loans

SBA loans remain one of the most attractive financing solutions available to small businesses because they combine competitive interest rates, long repayment terms, and flexible use of funds. Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA loan programs help businesses access capital through approved SBA lenders that may not otherwise be available through conventional financing.

The most popular loan program is the SBA 7(a) loan, which provides funding for working capital, equipment purchases, business acquisitions, inventory, refinancing existing debt, commercial real estate, and other business purposes. SBA 7(a) loans can provide loan amounts up to $5 million and repayment terms of up to 25 years for eligible borrowers. Many business owners also consider SBA Express loans, which offer a faster approval and quicker access to funding, although maximum loan amounts are generally lower than traditional SBA programs.

One of the biggest advantages of SBA loans is that they are SBA guaranteed. The SBA provides a partial guarantee to the lender, reducing risk and allowing lenders to offer lower interest rates, longer repayment schedules, and larger loan amounts than many conventional business loans. Depending on the loan program, SBA 7(a) loan guarantee fees can range from 0.25% to 3.5%, which are typically financed into the loan amount.

To qualify for SBA financing, businesses must meet the SBA’s definition of a small business based on industry size standards. Businesses must be for-profit, operate within the United States or its territories, and demonstrate the ability to repay the debt. In most cases, borrowers must show that they have exhausted other financing options before receiving SBA-backed funding. Owners are generally required to invest their own equity into the business before applying for a loan.

Eligibility requirements vary by lender and loan program, but lenders typically review business revenue, cash flow, credit history, collateral, business experience, and overall financial strength. Most SBA lenders require a personal guarantee from any owner holding 20% or more ownership in the business. The SBA also requires personal financial information and may evaluate both personal and business credit as part of the underwriting process.

Proceeds from this loan can be used for a wide range of business purposes, including purchasing equipment, acquiring fixed assets, expanding operations, buying commercial real estate, funding inventory, refinancing existing obligations, or providing additional working capital. Certain specialized SBA programs also support export businesses, disaster recovery, and other targeted financing needs.

Not all businesses qualify for SBA financing. Non-profit organizations, illegal businesses, and certain restricted industries are generally ineligible. Businesses must also meet citizenship and residency requirements, with operators typically being U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents.

For businesses that qualify, loans often provide some of the most affordable financing available in the marketplace. The combination of low interest rates, extended repayment periods of up to 25 years, high loan limits, and government-backed guarantees makes SBA financing an excellent option for business owners seeking long-term growth capital.

If you’re not sure where to start, Upwise Capital can help you navigate the SBA loan process, compare loan programs, evaluate eligibility requirements, and identify the best financing solution for your business. Whether you need working capital, equipment financing, commercial real estate funding, or a loan to start your business, our team can help you explore available SBA loan programs and secure the funding needed to achieve your goals.