Business Insights

What You Can (And Cannot) Use an SBA 7(a) Loan For

Key Takeaways

  • SBA 7(a) loans offer flexible funding for operational and growth needs.
  • There are clear restrictions on how funds can be used, such as prohibitions on real estate purchases, large equipment, personal expenses, passive investments, delinquent taxes (without a payment plan), and refinancing other SBA loans.
  • Strategic use of SBA 7(a) loans can unlock growth and stability, especially when cash flow gaps, expansion opportunities, or high-interest debt are limiting your business’s potential.
SBA 7(a) loans are among the most versatile forms of small business financing. For entrepreneurs navigating growth, slow seasons or operational transitions, these loans may provide a safety net and a launchpad. SBA 7(a) loans facilitated by NEWITY function as working capital loans, giving small business owners the flexibility to fund everyday needs and long-term initiatives.

But what does this mean for you and your small business?

Here’s a breakdown of ways you can and cannot use an SBA 7(a) loan facilitated by NEWITY:
Permitted Uses
Working Capital
Cover day-to-day operating expenses, manage cash flow, and support growth initiatives
Inventory and Materials
Purchase inventory or raw materials, upgrade technology systems, invest in supplies, and cover work-in-progress costs
Debt Refinancing
Refinance existing non-SBA business debt
Tenant Improvements
Make upgrades to leased spaces for business use
Non-Permitted Uses
Real Estate
Purchase land or buildings, renovate or improve existing facilities, construct new building
Equipment
Purchase large machinery and vehicles
Personal Expenses
Personal purchases, vacations, or non-business costs
Passive Investments
Purchase rental properties or investments not tied to active business operations
Taxes
Repaying delinquent taxes, unless you have an approved IRS payment plan
Refinancing SBA Loans
Refinancing certain other SBA loan
Speculative Ventures
Funding for gambling, pyramid schemes, or high-risk investments

Why This Matters

For many small businesses, understanding these boundaries helps prevent missteps and ensures funds are used strategically. With proper planning, an SBA 7(a) loan can be a catalyst for growth, offering both stability and opportunity.

At NEWITY, we specialize in helping business owners navigate the loan process and align financing with real goals. If you’re unsure whether your plans fit within permitted uses, our team is here to provide clarity at every step.

How Do You Know When You Need An SBA 7(a) Loan?

Many business owners hesitate to borrow because they aren’t sure if the timing is right, or whether their use case is valid. A good rule of thumb is that you should consider an SBA 7(a) loan when access to additional working capital will unlock growth or stabilize operations in ways your current cash flow cannot support.

Here are some indicators an SBA 7(a) loan is right for you:

Cash Flow Gaps Are Holding You Back: If your business struggles to cover payroll, utilities, or supplier payments during slow periods, a loan can bridge those gaps without disrupting operations.

Opportunities Exceed Current Resources: A new contract, expanded client demand, or the chance to purchase inventory at a discount may require capital you don’t have on hand. An SBA 7(a) loan ensures you don’t miss out.

Debt Is Draining Your Margins: High-interest loans or credit cards can restrict growth. Refinancing through an SBA 7(a) loan may free up cash to reinvest in the business.

You’re Ready to Scale: Whether it’s hiring additional staff, adding locations, or investing in marketing, growth initiatives often require upfront costs that outpace available reserves.

Your Business Needs Stability: During Transition Mergers, ownership changes, or even leadership restructuring can strain resources. A loan provides the cushion needed to keep momentum steady.

Ready To Explore Your Options

With NEWITY, small businesses don’t just gain access to capital, they gain a partner dedicated to their success. Find out how much funding your business could qualify for in just 10 minutes.

Find out how much you could qualify for in just 10 minutes! 

NEWITY LLC and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.

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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