SBA loan basics
Short answer
The 'Statement of Personal History' (SBA Form 1919) is highly significant as it collects critical information about the applicant's background, including criminal history, citizenship, and past defaults, which determines eligibility.
SBA Form 1919, specifically the 'Statement of Personal History' section, requires applicants to disclose information about their legal, financial, and citizenship status. This information is used by the SBA to determine if the applicant meets eligibility criteria related to character and legal standing.
An applicant discloses a past felony conviction from 15 years ago on their SBA Form 1919. The lender must then review this information against SBA rules to determine if the conviction impacts their eligibility or requires an exception.
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
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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