How do I get an SBA loan for a franchise in Washington?

Apply through an SBA-approved lender in Washington. Live Oak Bank is the top SBA franchise lender in the state. Washington processed 3,560 SBA 7(a) loans in 2025, averaging $372,000 per loan. Start with a free consultation at your local SBA district office or a local SCORE chapter for help with your business plan.

What credit score do I need for an SBA franchise loan in Washington?

Most SBA-approved lenders in Washington want a 680+ FICO score. Some lenders work with scores as low as 650 if you have strong collateral or relevant franchise industry experience. Below 650, consider building credit for 6-12 months before applying. Your personal credit history matters more than a business credit score for a new franchise purchase.

Are there franchise-specific lenders in Washington?

Yes. Live Oak Bank leads SBA franchise lending volume in Washington. National franchise lenders like Live Oak Bank, Guidant Financial, and ApplePie Capital also serve Washington borrowers. Franchise-specific lenders understand FDD financials and often close faster than general SBA lenders. Contact the Washington SBA district office for a current list of preferred lenders.

SBA Franchise Loans in Washington

2026 lenders, rates, and how to apply

Washington SBA-approved lenders issued 3,560 SBA 7(a) loans in 2025, averaging $372,000 per loan. About 14.0% of those went to franchise businesses, with franchise loans averaging $450,000.

3,560

SBA 7(a) loans (2025)

$372,000

Average loan amount

14.0%

Franchise share of SBA

$450,000

Avg franchise loan

Top SBA Franchise Lenders in Washington

Live Oak Bank

Highest SBA 7(a) franchise loan volume in Washington

Columbia Bank

Second-highest SBA franchise volume

National franchise lenders (Live Oak Bank, Guidant Financial, ApplePie Capital) also serve Washington. Compare at least 3 lenders before signing.

SBA Loan Payment Estimator

Loan amount

Interest rate (%)

Term (years)

Down payment (%)

$2,571

Monthly payment

Total interest

Down payment due

Estimate only. Actual rates and terms depend on credit, collateral, and lender. SBA guarantee fee (0.25-3.75%) not included.

How to Get an SBA Franchise Loan in Washington

Confirm your franchise is SBA-approved

Check the SBA Franchise Directory at sba.gov. If your brand isn't listed, your lender will need to submit the FDD for SBA review (adds 2-4 weeks).

Build your business plan

Washington has 12 SBDC locations and 8 SCORE chapters that offer free business plan help. Include 3-year projections and use FDD Item 19 data if available.

Compare lenders

Start with Live Oak Bank (highest SBA franchise volume in Washington). Compare at least 2-3 SBA-approved lenders. Rates, closing speed, and franchise experience vary a lot.

Apply and close

SBA 7(a) loan processing takes 30-90 days. Have your equity injection ready. Expect the lender to verify your personal credit, tax returns (2-3 years), and the franchise agreement.

Washington SBA District Offices — Visit SBA.gov office page

SBA Franchise Loans in Other States

Alabama Connecticut Delaware Idaho Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey Ohio

Related on FranchiseBudget

Franchise Cost Calculator All States All Financing Options ROI Calculator