In 2025, small business lending is shifting in a positive direction. With interest rates stabilizing and SBA loan programs remaining accessible, financial advisors are increasingly encouraging business owners to consider refinancing—particularly through the SBA 7(a) and 504 loan programs.
Many businesses are still burdened by high-interest debt from the post-pandemic period, including merchant cash advances and short-term online loans. SBA refinancing provides a strategic path to lower rates, better terms, and improved cash flow.

📉 Why Now? Interest Rates Are Holding Steady
As of mid-2025, the Federal Reserve has held interest rates steady through Q3, balancing inflation control with economic growth. While SBA 7(a) loans average 10.5%–14%, they are significantly cheaper than most private options like online loans (18–35%).
The SBA 504 loan—ideal for refinancing fixed assets—offers rates as low as 4.75% over 25 years.
🔗 Current SBA Loan Rates
Check out our live dashboard of current SBA loan rates.
🔄 SBA 7(a): A Smart Refinancing Tool
The SBA 7(a) program isn’t just for working capital or business acquisitions—it also supports debt refinancing, including:
- Paying off high-interest online or alternative loans
- Consolidating multiple debts into one manageable loan
- Refinancing merchant cash advances with short durations
- Restructuring debt terms up to 10–25 years
📌 Case Example
A restaurant owner carrying two loans at 18% APR refinances into a 10-year 7(a) loan at 10.75%, cutting monthly payments by 50% and freeing up capital for marketing and equipment upgrades.
💡 Key Benefits of SBA Loan Refinancing
- ✅ Lower Monthly Payments: Spread over a longer term with lower APR
- ✅ Simplified Finances: One loan means easier management and better forecasting
- ✅ Healthier Financial Statements: Improved DSCR and cash flow support future lending
- ✅ Room to Grow: Extra capital for hiring, marketing, or tech upgrades
🛠️ SBA Refinancing Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for refinancing through the SBA:
- Debt must be current with a strong payment history
- Original loan terms must have been commercially reasonable
- Refinance must offer a clear borrower benefit
- Debt must not be SBA-guaranteed (unless consolidating SBA loans)
Lenders must also confirm the “credit elsewhere” condition—demonstrating that the borrower can’t obtain equivalent terms without SBA support.
📊 Refinancing Trends (Q1–Q2 2025)
- 20% of 7(a) loans are now issued for refinancing
- Average refinance loan size: $422,000
- Loan approval time: Down 15% YoY due to digital platforms
Explore our data summary on SBA Lending Trends in 2025.
📝 Steps to Prepare for SBA Refinancing
- List Current Debts: Include amounts, rates, and monthly payments
- Update Financials: Prepare tax returns, P&Ls, and a debt schedule
- Check Credit: Aim for 680+ personal credit and solid business trade lines
- Work with SBA-Preferred Lenders: They understand refinancing guidelines
- Tell Your Story: Share how refinancing will improve your business
🧮 SBA vs. Bank vs. Online Refinancing
Criteria | SBA 7(a) Loan | Bank Loan | Online Lender |
---|---|---|---|
Interest Rate | 10.5%–14% | 9%–13% | 18%–35% |
Term Length | Up to 25 years | Up to 10 years | 6–36 months |
Down Payment | None | Often 10%+ | None |
Prepayment Penalty | None (under 15 yrs) | Often Yes | Often Yes |
Debt Refinance Eligibility | Yes | Limited | Rare |

With SBA underwriting back on track and rates holding steady in 2025, this is an ideal time for small businesses to refinance. Whether you’re managing multiple high-interest loans or simply want to improve cash flow, SBA 7(a) and 504 loans offer a powerful refinancing solution.
As advisors recommend acting before potential economic shifts in late 2025, entrepreneurs should seize this moment to strengthen financial stability and unlock new growth opportunities.
🚀 Take the Next Step with BoomerBiz Loans
Ready to elevate your entrepreneurial journey? BoomerBiz Loans specializes in supporting baby boomer business acquisitions, offering a streamlined 3-step loan application process for fast approvals within 24–48 hours.
With competitive low-interest rates, flexible terms, and loans up to $10 million, we help both first-time and experienced borrowers restructure and grow.
👉 Start Your Loan Application and refinance smarter today.