SBA Express Loan: Faster Approvals, Up to $500K

SBA Express vs Standard 7(a)

The biggest trade-off in choosing Express over standard 7(a) is the lower SBA guarantee (50% vs 75-85%). This usually means slightly higher rates, smaller maximum loan size, and more lender risk appetite required. In return, Express delivers significantly faster approval — often 30-45 days vs 60-90 for standard 7(a).

• Maximum loan: Express $500K vs 7(a) $5M
• SBA guarantee: Express 50% vs 7(a) 75-85%
• SBA review: Express 36 hours vs 7(a) 5-10 business days (or instant for PLPs)
• Use of funds: Same as 7(a), including commercial property under $500K
• Lines of credit: Express can be structured as a revolving line, 7(a) generally cannot

When to Choose SBA Express

• You need under $500K total financing
• Speed of approval matters (vendor financing window, time-sensitive opportunity)
• You want a revolving line of credit rather than a term loan
• You have strong credit and clear cash flow (Express lenders take more risk so they screen harder)

When to Choose 7(a) Instead

• You need over $500K
• You're acquiring a business with significant goodwill
• You're buying commercial real estate over $500K
• You want the maximum SBA guarantee (which often means slightly better rates)