Business Insights

SBA 7(a) Part III – Frequently Asked Questions During the SBA 7(a) Application

NEWITY is committed to helping small businesses across the United States thrive, which is why we offer SBA 7(a) working capital loans up to $500,000. Compared to alternative financing options, 7(a) loans offer lower interest rates and longer maturity that results in a lower monthly payment for your business.  

To ensure a successful and seamless process for business owners, we’ve created a 3-part Insights series on preparing for your SBA 7(a) loan application: 

  1. Part 1: Loan Eligibility – Explaining the main eligibility requirements for an SBA 7(a) loan. 
  1. Part 2: Which Documents To Prepare and How – Outlining specific documentation necessary for the SBA 7(a) application and how to find and prepare each one. 
  1. Part 3: SBA 7(a) FAQs on Applications – Answering specific frequently asked questions while applying for the SBA 7(a) loan.  

The NEWITY credit team answers the Top 10 FAQs during the SBA 7(a) loan application.

If you’re interested in applying for an SBA 7(a) loan, you’ll need to first know if your business qualifies. 

To qualify for an SBA Working Capital Loan, your business must be: 

  • In operation for at least 1 year as a for-profit business 
  • US-based location and operations 
  • Owner supported / owner funded 
  • Eligible per the SBA’s requirements 
  • Loan size determined by average annual revenue of the business and FICO score

For more information on eligibility, please visit our Part 1 Article in this 3 part series: https://newitymarket.com/business-loans/preparing-for-the-sba-7a-loan-application-part-1-loan-eligibility/

The interest rate for SBA 7(a) working capital loans is variable. It is based on the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) Prime Rate, plus 2.75%. As of March 22, 2023, the current prime rate is 8.00% in the U.S., according to The Wall Street Journal’s Money Rates table. 

At the current WSJ Prime Rate of 8.00%, NEWITY’s 7(a) loan interest rate can be calculated as 8.00% + 2.75% = 10.75% per annum. 

The interest rate on your funded loan will adjust on the first day of every calendar quarter based on the current Wall Street Journal (WSJ) Prime Rate + 2.75%. If there was no rate change during the previous quarter, your rate will remain the same. Please review the Payment Termssection of SBA Note Form 147 included in the Closing packet that will be sent to you for more details.   

Yes. If you have not filed your 2022 tax return, you will need to provide the IRS proof of extension and the previous three years returns. For example, if you have not filed your 2022 tax return as an individual or business, you may provide the IRS proof of extension, proof payment for any taxes owed and the 2019 – 2021 tax returns. 
 

a. April 18, 2023 – Tax filing deadline. After this date, we will need to review your 2022 return or the extension with proof of payment for both the business and the personal taxes.

b. July 1, 2023 – 6 months after the fiscal year, the SBA requires 2022 transcripts.

c. October 15, 2023 – You will need to submit your 2022 return and your tax transcripts will be required.

Alongside our partner, Northeast Bank, we offer SBA 7(a) Working Capital Loans of up to $250,000. Loan qualification requirements will vary by loan amount request, but are generally determined by the historical revenue of your business.

SBA requires collateral for loans greater than $25,000. These loans are secured with a lien on all of the Applicant’s fixed assets.

a. You can expect a decision on your application within approximately 2-3 business days after the Underwriter completes their review of your application. The timeframe will depend on the accuracy and completeness of your application and supporting documentation.

b. If your application is approved, you can expect funding in your account within approximately 10 business days. During the application journey on the Funding Account Information page, please ensure you enter your correct routing and account number to prevent any delays.

One of the key advantages of 7(a) working capital loans is that they can be used to cover a wide variety of expenses. Funds may be used on the following categories:
Payroll – This includes salaried, hourly, part-time, and 1099 employees.
Operating Expenses – This includes short-term expenses such as marketing, membership programs, inventory purchases, and day-to-day expenses.
Rent Utilities – This includes all utility expenses incurred by a business.
Note: The funds from the loan may be used in one category or may be split among multiple categories.

Where to Find More Information on 7(a) and Apply for your Loan

NEWITY offers small business 7(a) working capital loans up to $500,000. We’ve streamlined the SBA loan process for our members to make applying as simple as possible while standing by to guide you through every step. Start your 7(a) application here.

For more NEWITY FAQs on SBA 7(a) loans and the application process, please visit our website: https://support.newitymarket.com/knowledge/sba-7a-small-business-loans If you have additional questions, contact your NEWITY member services representative.

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To qualify for an SBA 7(a) small business loan, your business must be:

  1. U.S.-based and operated
  2. Owner supported / owner funded
  3. Eligible per the SBA’s requirements

Your loan amount will determined by the business’ average annual revenue, FICO score, and years in business