SBA loans have real costs beyond interest, but the SBA limits many of them and requires others to be disclosed. Knowing the list protects you from paying for things you should not.
Fees you can expect
| Fee | Who charges it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SBA guarantee fee | The SBA charges the lender, which usually passes it to you | Depends on loan size and term; can change each fiscal year; often financed into the loan |
| Third-party costs | Appraisers, environmental firms, title companies, attorneys | Common on real estate deals |
| Packaging or closing fees | Some lenders | Must be reasonable and tied to real work |
| Agent or broker fees | Consultants or brokers who help you | Must be disclosed on SBA Form 159 |
| Prepayment penalty | The SBA, on some long-term 7(a) loans | Only for terms of 15+ years, prepaying a large share in the first three years |
Always ask the lender for a written list of every fee before you sign.
About brokers and consultants
You do not need a broker to get an SBA loan. Lenders are required to tell you this in writing. If you do hire someone to help prepare your application:
- Their compensation must be disclosed on SBA Form 159.
- They generally cannot be paid by both you and the lender on the same loan.
- If you pay them a percentage, SBA rules cap the total.
- They cannot promise approval or imply they work for the SBA.
Red flags
Walk away from anyone who:
- Asks for a large upfront fee before anything is done.
- Guarantees approval.
- Says they are “from the SBA” or uses the SBA seal on their own materials.
- Pressures you to sign quickly or to leave numbers blank.
Read more in loan scams that target business owners.
Our approach
SBAMatchPro is free for business owners. We are not a lender or a broker and we never charge you. Some links on our site are referral links; when used, a partner may pay us, at no cost to you. That never changes the order of our lender search results, which come straight from SBA data. See our disclaimer.
Use our payment calculator to see the full cost of different amounts and terms.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a broker to get an SBA loan?
No. Lenders must tell you in writing that using an agent is not required. Free help is available from SBDCs and SCORE.
What is SBA Form 159?
The fee disclosure form that records what any agent, broker or packager is paid in connection with an SBA loan.
Is an upfront fee before approval normal?
No. Large upfront fees before anything is done are a red flag. Legitimate fees are disclosed in writing and usually paid at closing.
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Educational information, not legal or financial advice. We are not a lender and are not affiliated with the SBA. Disclaimer