SBA Express Loans are available through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). They feature a streamlined application process, and you’ll generally receive a lending decision within 36 hours of submitting a completed loan application.
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What Can You Use The Funds For
The loan proceeds from SBA Express Loans can be used for business-related expenses. You can also refinance existing debt (limitations apply), cover the costs of an ownership change in an existing business, and procure real estate for your company.
Types of SBA Express Loans
Standard SBA Express Loans
SBA Express Loans are available to qualified businesses through SBA-approved banks and lenders. You could get approved for up to $350,000.
SBA Export Express Loans
As the name suggests, these loans are ideal for entities in the exporting industry. Loan amounts are limited to $500,000, and you’ll generally get a response from the SBA in 24 hours.
H2 – SBA Express Repayment Terms
Revolving Loans/ Lines Of Credit
The repayment period on SBA Express lines of credit is limited to 10 years. This includes both the draw period and the term-out period. The latter is the span of time you repay what you borrow, but draws aren’t permitted.
However, the repayment period on revolving loans is different. You can opt for a renewable 12-month period, excluding a term-out window. If the term exceeds 12 months, the term-out period must be equal to or greater than the draw period. Furthermore, draws are prohibited in either case following a 60-month window.
Term Loans
The repayment terms on SBA Express term loans vary by how the funds are used. Here’s a breakdown of the guidelines:
- Up to 10 years for working capital and inventory loans
- Up to 10 years for loans used to finance intangible assets
- Up to 10 years for leasehold improvements (with an extension of up to 12 months to complete the necessary renovations)
- Up to 10 years for equipment, furniture and fixture loans (or 15 years in some instances)
- Up to 25 years for real estate acquisition, construction, rehabilitation and renovation loans (quick note: construction and renovation loans may qualify for an extended-term)
- Up to 25 years for mixed purpose loans
SBA Express Loan Interest Rates And Fees
The SBA sets thresholds for interest rates and fees on Express Loans. You could get a fixed or variable rate, and some loans have a combination of both. For loan amounts of up to $50,000, the interest rate must not exceed the prime rate plus 6.5 percent. If the loan is greater than $5,000, the interest rate is capped at the prime rate plus 4.5 percent.
Regarding fees, SBA 7(a) loans approved anytime between October 1, 2020, and September 30, 2021, come with an annual service fee of 0.55 percent. But if your company is classified as a veteran-owned business, you won’t pay an upfront guarantee fee.
You’ll pay a one-time guarantee fee between 2 and 3 percent for all other SBA Express loans, depending on the loan amount.
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How Do You Qualify For An SBA Express Loan?
You could be eligible for an SBA Express Loan if you meet the following criteria:
- You’re a for-profit business operating in the U.S. and meet the SBA’s size standards for a small business.
- You operate in an industry that the SBA deems eligible for SBA Express Loans (i.e., not a business that’s considered passive in some instances).
- You don’t have unresolved federal tax or student loan debt.
- Your credit history is acceptable per the SBA’s standards. (Note: The SBA doesn’t have a minimum credit score requirement, but most lenders prefer credit scores of 680 or higher). Ideally, you should also be in business for at least two years and have a steady revenue stream before applying.
- Your criminal history doesn’t disqualify you for funding.
- At least 50 percent of your company is owned by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Also, keep in mind that the SBA could require collateral for Express Loans over $25,000.
SBA Express Loan Application Process
If you’re a good fit and would like to apply for an SBA Express Loan, here’s what you can expect:
- Step 1: Contact an SBA-approved SBA Express lender to get started.
- Step 2: Work directly with your lender to prepare your loan application.
- Step 3: Upon completion, the lender will submit your application. (The SBA will provide a lending decision within 36 hours).
It’s important to understand that a rapid lending decision doesn’t mean your loan will be funded right away. In fact, it could be some time before loan proceeds are disbursed – up to two months in some cases.
Pros and Cons Of SBA Express Loans
Benefits of SBA Express Loans:
- The application process is streamlined, and you generally won’t need a ton of documentation to get the process started.
- Your business may be eligible for a loan with a competitive rate if you cannot secure financing elsewhere.
- You’ll get a lending decision within 36 hours.
Drawbacks of SBA Express Loans:
- Loans are limited to $500,000.
- Collateral may be required for loans over $25,000.
- These loans aren’t ideal if you need fast funding
- You may not qualify for a loan with subpar credit.
Where Can You Get An SBA Express Loan?
If you’re ready to apply for an SBA Express Loan, visit Lendio to explore your options. It’s an online marketplace that connects small business owners with over 75 lenders nationwide.
You can check your eligibility in just 15 minutes without impacting your credit score and compare options in real-time if there’s a match. While SBA Express loans could take some time to fund, other options, like business lines of credit, business term loans, merchant cash advances, and equipment financing, are available through lenders in the Lendio network to secure the capital you need. Even better, some offer funding in as little as 24 hours.
Visit Lendio.com to learn more about SBA Express loans and other funding opportunities available to your small business.
