SBA 504 Loan Eligibility

To be considered for an SBA 504 loan, applicants must meet the following requirements listed below.

Requirements

• Operate as a for-profit company
• Do business (or propose to) in the United States or its possessions
• Has a tangible net worth less than $15 million and an average net income less than $5.0 million after taxes for the preceding two years.
• Loans cannot be made to businesses engaged in speculation or investment in rental real estate.
• Be an eligible type of business. While the vast majority of businesses are eligible for financial assistance from the SBA 504 program, some are not. Check this list of eligible and ineligible types of businesses to see if your company qualifies.
• Under the 504 Program, Plan to use proceeds for an approved purpose. CDC/504 loan proceeds may be used for the financing of fixed assets like real estate or equipment. This list explains Eligible and Ineligible Use of Proceeds.
• Not have funds available from other sources. SBA does not extend financial assistance to businesses when the financial strength of the individual owners or the company itself is sufficient to provide all or part of the financing. Both business and personal financial resources are reviewed as part of the eligibility criteria. If these resources are found to be excessive, the business will be required to use those resources in lieu of part or all of the requested loan proceeds.
• Ability to repay the loan on time from the projected operating cash flow of the business
• Good character. SBA 504 obtains a "Statement of Personal History" from the principals of each applicant firm to determine if they have historically shown the willingness and ability to pay their debts and whether they have abided by the laws of their community
• Relevant management expertise
• Feasible business plan