Glossary · Doing the deal
Voluntary Workout Option
In short
An agreement between a borrower and lender to modify loan terms to avoid default, typically when the borrower faces financial difficulty. It's a structured path to prevent formal liquidation.
What it means in a deal
If your business hits a rough patch and you anticipate difficulty making loan payments, a voluntary workout option allows you to proactively negotiate with your lender. This could involve revised payment schedules, interest-only periods, or other concessions, aiming to keep the business afloat and avoid the drastic step of loan default and liquidation.
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 Voluntary Workout Option
- When does a lender require prior SBA approval for a voluntary collateral substitution on a 7(a) loan?
- What is the role of a "workout plan" in the liquidation of a defaulted 7(a) loan?
- What is the SBA's expectation for a lender's 'workout plan' for a defaulted 7(a) loan prior to liquidation?
- Does the SBA 7(a) loan program have an 'Express' option for quicker approvals?
- Does an unfunded stock option agreement trigger affiliation for SBA 7(a) size standard calculations?
- Is an SBA 7(a) loan a good option for someone just starting a brand-new business?
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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