Getting approved for an SBA loan is a big step and a huge relief for many small business owners. But approval doesn’t mean funds in hand. This guide breaks down what happens next, so you can stay ahead of the process and avoid delays.

If your SBA loan was just approved, take a moment to celebrate. You’ve passed the biggest hurdle in the process! But before those funds land in your account, you’ll need to complete one more important stage. SBA loan closing.

This stage is often misunderstood, especially by first-time borrowers. That’s why we believe it’s essential to provide small business owners with a clear understanding of what comes next.

So, in this guide, we’ll walk you through what happens after approval, what documents you'll need, and how long closing typically takes, so you can stay ahead and put your capital to work without delay.

Why SBA loans take time to close

SBA loans take longer to close than traditional loans because there’s more red tape. Since they’re partially backed by the government, lenders have to check every box (collateral, permits, compliance paperwork, etc.) before the funds are released.

Borrowers can support this process by staying proactive and organized, for example, by responding promptly and keeping documents up to date. This goes a long way towards avoiding unnecessary delays and keeps closing on track.

Please read our guide on what an SBA loan is to better understand how they work and why the closing process is more involved.

What happens after SBA loan approval?

After your SBA loan is approved, your lender will send over a Loan Commitment Letter. This lays out what needs to happen before closing can move forward, and usually covers:

  • How much you’re approved to borrow, and at what rate
  • The repayment plan you’ve agreed to
  • Any collateral you’ll need to provide
  • Additional requirements (e.g., insurance, permits, or licenses) that must be in place before funding

It’s worth going through this letter carefully. If anything looks off or unclear, ask your lender now rather than later. A quick conversation upfront can save you time and frustration down the line.

If you want to get a head start on your prep, read our guide on how business loans and taxes work to make sure you’re set up for tax season.

Key steps in the SBA loan closing process

The SBA closing process is pretty straightforward once you know what’s coming. While the exact steps vary depending on your loan and business, most borrowers go through a similar checklist:

1. Document collection and verification

Lenders often ask for fresh copies of key paperwork, even if you already submitted them earlier. This is because they need to confirm that your business still matches the terms of your approved loan.

In light of that, expect to resend things like:

  • Personal and business financial statements
  • Business licenses, permits, and insurance certificates
  • Proof of business structure (such as Articles of Incorporation or an LLC Operating Agreement)
  • Lease agreements or property-related documents (if real estate is part of the loan)

If anything is outdated or missing, your lender may pause the process. So, gathering these items in advance helps keep things on track.

2. SBA-specific documentation

After reviewing your paperwork, your lender will move on to the final SBA forms:

SBA loan authorization: This spells out the terms, things like the loan amount, interest rate, repayment schedule, collateral, and any extra conditions attached.

Proof of flood insurance (if applicable): If your loan involves real estate in a designated flood zone, flood insurance must be in place before closing. The policy must meet federal standards and name your lender (or the SBA) as the loss payee.

Environmental due diligence: If the loan includes commercial real estate (especially properties with past or current uses that may pose environmental risks), your lender may require a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment to identify any concerns.

Certification of use of proceeds (SBA form 1050): This form is required for all 7(a) loan disbursements. You and your lender must complete it at closing to confirm how funds will be used, consistent with the loan authorization. Supporting documentation (like invoices or wire confirmations) may also be required.

Other SBA forms and certifications: Depending on your loan type and business situation, you may be asked to complete additional documents, such as:

  • SBA Form 159 (if you paid a broker or agent)
  • IRS Form 4506-C (to verify business tax returns)
  • Hazard insurance documentation (for collateral)
  • Borrower certifications confirming no material changes since loan approval.

3. Legal and compliance requirements

Once the SBA-specific paperwork is out of the way, your lender will move on to the legal checks to confirm that your business is on solid legal ground and that everything meets SBA program rules.

You may be asked to:

  • Sign legal documents that reflect the final loan terms
  • Show that you’ve invested some of your own money into the business
  • Provide proof that your location complies with zoning laws or environmental rules
  • Back the loan with a personal guarantee or collateral

These steps are all about protecting both you and your lender while keeping everything above board.

Since SBA loans often require personal guarantees or assets as collateral, it’s worth understanding what happens if you default on an SBA loan and how to protect yourself.

4. Lender due diligence and final review

Right before closing, your lender will go over the details one last time to make sure everything lines up before funds are released. That could mean:

  • Taking a second look at the title report, especially if real estate is involved
  • Making sure all the collateral paperwork is in the file
  • Following up with any lingering questions from underwriting

It’s routine, but important because it’s how lenders protect both sides before the loan goes live.

5. Signing the closing documents

This is the part where everything becomes official. You’ll go over the final loan agreement and sign documents like the promissory note, personal guarantee, and security agreement.

However, if real estate is part of your loan, there’s usually extra paperwork involved, like a deed of trust or lien filings. Some of those documents may need to be notarized. But don't worry, your lender will tell you what’s needed and when. These days, many lenders offer digital signing options to make things easier

6. Disbursement of funds

After you’ve signed all the paperwork and your lender has done a final review, the funds can be released.

How that happens depends on your loan and what it’s being used for:

Lump sum: For some loans, such as those primarily for working capital or refinancing existing debt, the full loan amount may be disbursed all at once directly into your business bank account.

In stages (draws): For projects involving construction, major renovations, or phased equipment purchases, funds are typically released in stages. This "draw" process allows the lender to monitor project progress and verify that funds are used appropriately at each phase.

Direct to third parties: Sometimes, the funds don’t go straight into your account. Depending on your loan terms, the lender might send the money directly to vendors like equipment suppliers or business sellers, or place it in an escrow account managed by a title company. This helps make sure the money gets used exactly as approved.

The typical timeline for fund disbursement is generally within 7–21 business days after the loan closing documents are signed. While some lenders, particularly those with highly streamlined or digital processes, may be able to release funds faster, it's prudent to anticipate this timeframe.

Get ready to put your capital to work

Once you close, the hard part is behind you. Now it’s time to focus on growth. It doesn't matter whether you’re purchasing new equipment, expanding to a second location, or managing seasonal cash flow; your loan is likely the key to moving your business forward.

Interested in a SBA loan? Lendio stays in your corner every step of the way, offering tools, expert guidance, and support when it matters most. If you're planning your next big move, our team is ready to help you make it happen. Start your SBA loan application today.