Right now (July 2026): the WSJ Prime Rate is 6.75%. Most SBA 7(a) business-acquisition loans price at Prime + 2.75% to 3.0%, roughly 9.5%, 11.75% variable, with loans over $350,000 capped at 9.75%. Term is up to 10 years (25 with real estate), and there's no prepayment penalty under 15-year terms.
Maximum SBA 7(a) rates by loan size
The SBA caps how much a lender can charge over Prime. Bigger loans get lower maximum spreads, so acquisition-size loans are protected:
| Loan size | Max spread over Prime | Approx. max rate |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 or less | Prime + 6.5% | 13.25% |
| $50,001, $250,000 | Prime + 6.0% | 12.75% |
| $250,001, $350,000 | Prime + 4.5% | 11.25% |
| Over $350,000 | Prime + 3.0% | 9.75% |
Caps are regulatory maximums; most borrowers pay less. Fixed-rate 7(a) loans use a separate, generally higher cap. Confirm your quoted rate with your lender.
See your real monthly payment
Plug today's rate into the calculator to get your payment and full amortization.
How SBA rates are set
An SBA 7(a) rate has two parts: a base rate (usually the WSJ Prime Rate) plus a lender spread the SBA caps by loan size. When the Federal Reserve moves and Prime changes, your variable rate moves with it, typically at the start of the next month or quarter. That's why the same deal can look different two months apart.
Don't fall in love with a rate, fall in love with a deal that still works if rates tick up a point.
Fixed vs. variable
- Variable, most common. Lower starting rate, but your payment can rise if Prime rises. Re-run the DSCR calculator at a higher rate to make sure the deal still covers its debt with room to spare.
- Fixed, payment certainty, usually at a higher starting rate. Worth it if you value predictability or expect rates to climb.
Frequently asked questions
As of July 2026, ~9.5%, 11.75% variable for acquisition loans, WSJ Prime (6.75%) plus a lender spread, capped at Prime + 3.0% (9.75%) on loans over $350,000.
Most are variable and reset with Prime. Fixed-rate 7(a) loans exist but usually start higher. The SBA sets maximums; the exact rate is negotiated with your lender.
