SBA 7(a) Q&A
Short answer
No, a felony conviction from 15 years ago does not automatically make you ineligible, but it will be thoroughly reviewed.
The SBA's rules regarding criminal history have evolved. While certain recent felony convictions can lead to ineligibility, a conviction from 15 years ago typically requires a more nuanced review. The SBA will assess the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since conviction and release, and your post-conviction conduct and rehabilitation. Disclosure on SBA Form 1919 is mandatory.
A buyer applying for an SBA loan for a $500,000 business acquisition discloses a 15-year-old felony conviction for a non-financial crime. The lender would review the details, confirming the time elapsed and a clean record since, and likely submit it to the SBA for a character determination, which may be favorable given the time frame.
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
Criminal Justice Reviews for SBA Business Loan Programs - Final Rule
SBA Form 1919 - Borrower Information Form
Last checked 2026-06-14. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 · SBA sources checked through 2026-06-14. 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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