For SBA lenders
Short answer
SBA Form 912, the Statement of Personal History, is used to gather information about an individual's character, including criminal history, to determine eligibility. It must be completed by all principals of the applicant business.
SBA eligibility includes character requirements. Form 912 requires disclosure of arrests, convictions, paroles, and bankruptcies. Any 'yes' answers typically trigger additional review by the SBA. Principals required to complete the form include all owners with 20% or more equity, officers, directors, managing members, and other key management personnel. This ensures that individuals associated with the business meet SBA's character standards.
A loan applicant has three owners: 40%, 30%, and 30%. All three owners must complete and sign SBA Form 912. If the 40% owner disclosed a prior felony conviction, the lender must provide details and the SBA will review to determine if it impacts eligibility.
SBA Form 1919 - Borrower Information Form
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
Criminal Justice Reviews for SBA Business Loan Programs - Final Rule
Last checked 2026-06-13. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 · SBA sources checked through 2026-06-13. DealRoom analysis of public SBA 7(a) lending records (FY2020–present). Grounded in the current SBA rulebook; verify against the official sources above before relying on it for a live deal. Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision.
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