SBA Tweaks Surety Bond Fees in Routine Contractor Support Update
Published Date: 10/30/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting November 30, 2026, the SBA is changing the fees for its Surety Bond Guarantee Program, which helps small contractors get bonding when they can’t get it elsewhere. These fee changes affect surety companies and small businesses (except manufacturing projects) and help keep the program strong and ready to support more small businesses. If you’re involved in this program, get ready for updated fees that keep the support flowing!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Prior Approval fees rise for most contracts
If you get an SBA Prior Approval (Plan A) bond (other than a bid bond) on or after November 30, 2026, the SBA Surety fee increases from 20% to 26% of the bond premium and the Principal (contractor) fee increases from $6.00 to $7.29 per $1,000 of contract amount. These new rates apply to all Prior Approval guarantees except those for projects coded NAICS 31, 32, 33 (Manufacturing).
Manufacturing projects keep prior rates
If your project is under NAICS Codes 31, 32, or 33 (Manufacturing), SBA will keep the Prior Approval Surety fee at 20% of the bond premium and the Principal fee at $6.00 per $1,000 of contract amount, effective for guarantees approved on or after November 30, 2026. Manufacturing projects are therefore not subject to the increased Prior Approval fees.
Preferred Program fees remain unchanged
If you participate in the Preferred Surety Bond Program, SBA's fee will remain 20% of the bond premium and the Principal fee will remain $6.00 per $1,000 of contract amount for guarantees approved on or after November 30, 2026. The Preferred program rates are not being increased.
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