SBA Loan Eligibility Checker
Check if your business qualifies for SBA loans in minutes. Get an instant eligibility score and personalized recommendations for the best loan programs.
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Key Eligibility Factors
Understanding these factors helps determine your SBA loan eligibility and approval likelihood.
Industry Type
CriticalSome industries like gambling, lending, and speculation are ineligible
Business Size
CriticalMust meet SBA small business size standards for your industry
Credit Score
HighPersonal credit score of 650+ significantly improves approval odds
Time in Business
High2+ years in business preferred, though exceptions exist for strong applicants
Cash Flow
HighConsistent positive cash flow demonstrates ability to repay
Down Payment
MediumAbility to provide required down payment (typically 10-15%)
Check Your SBA Loan Eligibility
Answer a few questions about your business to get an instant eligibility assessment and score.
SBA Eligibility Assessment
Complete this assessment to determine your eligibility for SBA loan programs and get personalized recommendations.
Business Information
How It Works
Our streamlined process connects you with the right SBA lender quickly and efficiently.
Calculate & Explore
Use our free calculators to estimate payments and explore your options
Get Matched
Skip the bank runaround - get connected with a lender who actually wants your business
Compare Offers
Review personalized loan offers and choose the best terms for your business
Basic SBA Loan Requirements
These are the fundamental requirements that most SBA loan programs share.
Business Size
- Must be a small business per SBA size standards
- Generally under 500 employees for most industries
- Revenue limits vary by industry (typically $5M-$40M)
- Affiliates and subsidiaries count toward size
Time in Business
- Typically 2+ years in business for most loans
- Startups may qualify with strong experience/plan
- Must show consistent cash flow
- Financial statements required
Credit Requirements
- Personal credit score typically 650+
- Business credit history preferred
- No recent bankruptcies or defaults
- Manageable debt-to-income ratio
Financial Strength
- Positive cash flow and profitability
- Ability to service debt payments
- Sufficient collateral or down payment
- Realistic debt-to-income ratios
Tips to Improve Your Eligibility
Actionable steps you can take to strengthen your SBA loan application.
Check Industry Eligibility First
Some industries are automatically ineligible for SBA loans. Verify your NAICS code qualifies before applying.
Improve Your Credit Score
A higher credit score can mean better rates and terms. Consider improving credit before applying.
Gather Financial Documents
Having complete financials ready speeds up the process and improves approval odds.
Consider Loan Purpose
SBA loans have specific use restrictions. Make sure your intended use qualifies.
Trusted by Thousands of Business Owners
"Saved me 3 weeks of bank visits. Realized I qualified for $200K more than I thought possible!"
Sarah M.
Restaurant Owner
Loan Amount: $450,000
"The calculator showed me exactly what I could afford. No surprises, no runaround - just real numbers."
Mike C.
Manufacturing
Loan Amount: $750,000
"Found out I was eligible for SBA Express in 60 seconds. Had funding approval in 2 weeks instead of 3 months."
Jennifer R.
Medical Practice
Loan Amount: $320,000
SBA Eligibility FAQs
What credit score do I need for an SBA loan?
Many lenders prefer personal credit scores around 650+ for SBA financing, but approvals depend on cash flow, collateral, and the full credit profile. Higher scores typically improve rates and approval odds.
How long do I need to be in business to qualify?
Many lenders prefer 2+ years in business, but startups can sometimes qualify with strong experience, projections, and collateral. Underwriting varies by lender and loan purpose.
Do SBA loans require a down payment?
Often yes. For example, many SBA 7(a) acquisitions require an equity injection, and SBA 504 commonly starts around 10% down (higher for special-purpose or new businesses).
Does the SBA approve my loan?
Your lender underwrites and approves the loan within SBA guidelines. The SBA provides a guarantee to reduce lender risk, but you still must qualify based on repayment ability.
Qualified for an SBA Loan?
If your eligibility score looks good, connect with a pre-qualified SBA lender who can provide personalized loan offers based on your business profile.