# How long can an SBA Express term loan run?

**Short answer:** It depends on what the loan buys. SBA Express term loans follow the general 7(a) limits in Appendix 17, Para. A of SOP 50 10 8.1: 10 years for working capital and, for real estate, 25 years, plus any reasonable construction or renovation period.

Canonical page: https://www.sbaexpress.loans/answers/sba-express-term-loan-length/
Last checked: 2026-11-08

An SBA Express term loan follows the general 7(a) maturity limits, which depend on what the money buys. Appendix 17, Para. A of SOP 50 10 8.1 applies because the SBA Express paragraph in that appendix (Para. B.3) covers lines of credit only.

## Maximum terms by use

- Working capital, inventory and intangibles, including goodwill: 10 years.
- Equipment, fixtures and furniture: 10 years, or up to 15 years if the IRS asset class useful life supports it.
- Real estate: 25 years, plus any reasonable construction or renovation period.
- Leasehold improvements: 10 years, plus up to 12 months to complete the improvements.
- Mixed uses: a blended maturity, or up to 25 years if 51% or more of the proceeds are for real estate.
- Buying a business: 10 years of amortization, with only the real estate portion allowed up to 25 years on a blended basis. Appendix 15, Para. B.1 governs.

## The maximum is not automatic

Every 7(a) loan needs 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). A lender can offer less than the maximum, and terms vary by lender.

## Balloon payments

SBA does not allow balloon payments (13 CFR 120.214(e); Appendix 18). Your payments must retire the loan by maturity.

## Sources

- [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)
- [SOP 50 10 8.1, Appendix 15, Para. B.1 (p. 370)](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)
- [13 CFR § 120.214(e)](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-13/section-120.214)