Glossary · The loan itself
Benchmark Rate
In short
This is the underlying interest rate index, like WSJ Prime or Term SOFR, that your SBA loan's variable interest rate is based on. Your loan rate will be this benchmark plus a spread.
What it means in a deal
Most SBA 7(a) loans have variable interest rates tied to a benchmark rate. You'll see your loan agreement specify WSJ Prime or Term SOFR. Understand how often your rate will adjust, as this directly impacts your monthly principal and interest payments.
Official sources
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
SOP 50 10 — Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
U.S. Small Business Administration · SBA Standard Operating Procedure
Last checked 2026-06-15. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Related terms
Common questions about Benchmark Rate
- What alternative base rates are available for variable-rate 7(a) loans besides the Wall Street Journal Prime rate?
- What is the 'Prime Rate' when talking about SBA 7(a) loan rates?
- What specific alternative base rates are permissible for variable rate 7(a) loans?
- What is the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate's role in SBA 7(a) loan interest rates?
- What are the maximum allowable interest rates for variable rate 7(a) loans, including the permissible spread?
- What are the current alternative base rate options for variable rate 7(a) loans, besides Prime Rate?
Defined by CapBench SBA Intelligence — plain-English definitions for business buyers, lenders, advisors, and AI agents, grounded in public SBA rules and records. Last reviewed 2026-06-15 · Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision. Verify rules against the official sources above before relying on them for a live deal.
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