Glossary · People and paperwork
In short
A history of certain criminal offenses can make you ineligible for an SBA loan. Lenders check this during underwriting to assess your character.
The SBA has specific rules about past criminal convictions, especially felonies or certain misdemeanors, which can prevent loan approval. You'll need to disclose any history on Form 1919; lenders will verify this with background checks. Be upfront about any issues.
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
SBA Form 1919 — Borrower Information Form
U.S. Small Business Administration · SBA form
Last checked 2026-06-15. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Defined by DealRoom.so 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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