Independent reference built on public SBA FOIA loan data. Not affiliated with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

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Your SBA loan roadmap

New to SBA loans? Here is the whole journey in five steps, with the right tool or guide for each one.

  1. 1

    Are you eligible?

    Confirm your business is for-profit, U.S.-based, small under its size standard, and an eligible type. Two minutes here can save you weeks.

    Eligibility checker Who qualifies Check your size standard
  2. 2

    7(a) or 504?

    Pick the right program. 7(a) is the flexible workhorse; 504 funds owner-occupied real estate and long-term equipment.

    How SBA loans work The 504 loan, explained 504 vs 7(a) in the data
  3. 3

    What will it cost?

    Estimate the monthly payment and understand how SBA rates and fees work before you talk to a lender.

    Payment calculator Rates and fees Down payment requirements
  4. 4

    Find your lenders

    See the lenders that actually fund businesses like yours, ranked by real track record, not by who pays for placement.

    Lender Match Best SBA lenders How to choose a lender
  5. 5

    Apply with confidence

    Get your documents in order and walk into the application knowing what the lender will ask for.

    How to apply, step by step Why loans get denied SBA loan requirements

Ready to apply for an SBA loan?

Shortlist lenders with a strong track record in your state and industry, then get matched with SBA-approved lenders that fund businesses like yours.

Get matched with lenders