SBA Loans for Veterans

Last Updated: September 2026
SBA Loans for Veterans

Key Takeaways

  • Veterans have access to multiple SBA loan options, including 7(a), Express, and 504 loans, each designed for different business needs, from working capital to commercial real estate.
  • Not all SBA lenders are equal. As an SBA-Preferred Lender, Customers Bank can make final loan decisions in-house, meaning faster approvals and less waiting compared to standard lenders.
  • SBA Express Loans waive upfront guarantee fees for veteran and military spouse-owned businesses — a meaningful cost savings that makes getting started more accessible.
  • You don’t have to figure it out alone. Customers Bank’s SBA experts will walk you through every option and help match you to the loan that fits where your business is today and where you want it to go.

Are you eager to implement a great business idea but don’t know how to finance it? Customers Bank and the SBA are working to help get small business loans into the hands of more veterans and military spouse entrepreneurs. We can help you decide which opportunity is right for you.

All SBA Lenders are Not the Same

The Small Business Administration (SBA) does not lend money directly to businesses. Instead, the agency sets policies and procedures and then helps connect borrowers with banks, credit unions, and alternative lenders to provide loans to small business owners on its behalf.

When you apply for an SBA loan, the lender you select will process and approve your application. Then, you will have to wait for additional approval from the SBA. Typically, this can take four to six weeks.

However, SBA-Preferred Lenders like Customers Bank are allowed by the SBA to streamline the process of approving and servicing SBA-guaranteed loans. Since our team has efficiently processed and serviced SBA loans for many years and has already done much of the agency’s work, we have the authority to make final decisions on most SBA loans, which allows for a quicker approval process.

What Types of SBA Loans Are Available to Veterans?

SBA loan programs are designed for small businesses that do not have access to other types of financing. There are several different types of loans, so speak with a Customers Bank SBA loan expert to decide which type of loan your business may need. Here are a few loan programs to consider:

  • SBA 7(a) Loans:
    For startups and existing small businesses, SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million are available for terms up to 25 years depending on the use of proceeds. These loans can be utilized for nearly any business need, including working capital, debt refinance, starting a business or purchasing commercial real estate, equipment or an existing business.
  • HSBA Express Loans:
    Under the umbrella of the SBA 7(a) loan program, veterans can borrow up to $500,000 through this program. Upfront guarantee fees, typically 2% to 3% of the loan, are waived for businesses owned and controlled by a veteran or veteran spouse. This loan program provides revolving credit to help you manage your cash cycle.
  • SBA 504 Loans:
    This loan product provides long-term financing (up to $5 million in SBA debenture financing) for purchasing, building or renovating commercial real estate, or purchasing other fixed assets. Two lenders are paired to fund the project: a bank or traditional lender and a community development corporation (CDC). SBA 504 loans require the business to occupy at least 51% of the commercial space if purchasing an existing building, and 60 % of the space if new construction.

Why choose an SBA loan?

An SBA loan offers veteran-run businesses many benefits. These can include:

  • Competitive rates
  • Lower down payments
  • Flexible overhead
  • No collateral needed (depending on the loan)
  • Ongoing financial support

 Consider an SBA loan to finance your business

Veterans, active-duty service members, reservists and military spouses who need funding to start a business or expand an existing business may want to consider SBA loans that offer numerous advantages. As SBA-Preferred lenders, Customers Bank will walk you through the options and recommend the financial vehicle that may meet your needs.

At Customers Bank, we’re dedicated to helping you get the financial support you need, through our business banking services. If you want to learn more about SBA loans, reach out to speak to a member of our team.