# How long can an SBA Express line of credit last?

**Short answer:** An SBA Express line of credit can run up to 10 years, including any term-out period (SOP 50 10 8.1, Appendix 17, Para. B.3). Lenders may set shorter terms within that cap, and terms vary by lender.

Canonical page: https://www.sbaexpress.loans/answers/sba-express-line-of-credit-term/
Last checked: 2026-11-08

An SBA Express line of credit can run up to 10 years, including any term-out period. Appendix 17, Para. B.3 of SOP 50 10 8.1 sets that limit, and SBA's lender page repeats it.

## The cap covers the whole life of the line

The limit includes both the draw period and the repayment period that follows. SBA calls that repayment period the term-out. A line cannot revolve for the full limit and then start to amortize.

Every 7(a) loan must have a stated maturity. SBA also requires the shortest appropriate term based on the use of proceeds and the borrower's ability to repay (Appendix 17, Para. A; 13 CFR 120.212). Your line may be set for less than the maximum.

## Term varies by lender

SBA sets the outer limit. The lender chooses the structure within it. Ask each lender for:

- The total maturity.
- The length of the draw period.
- When amortizing payments begin.
- Whether the line renews each year.

## Two related limits

- Term loans made under SBA Express follow different rules, based on the use of proceeds (Appendix 17, Para. A).
- Export Express lines have a shorter limit of 7 years (Appendix 17, Para. B.6).

## Sources

- [SOP 50 10 8.1, Appendix 17, Para. B.3 (Para. B begins p. 391)](https://legacy.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2026-10/SOP%2050%2010%208.1%20Technical%20Policy%20Updates%20effective%20%2010.1.2026.docx)
- [SOP 50 10 8.1, Appendix 17, Para. A (p. 390)](https://legacy.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2026-10/SOP%2050%2010%208.1%20Technical%20Policy%20Updates%20effective%20%2010.1.2026.docx)
- [13 CFR § 120.212](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-13/section-120.212)
- [SBA, Terms, conditions and eligibility for 7(a) lenders, sba.gov/sba-lenders (read November 8, 2026)](https://www.sba.gov/sba-lenders)