SBA loan basics
Short answer
You will generally need personal financial statements, personal income tax returns for the past three years, and a resume showing your management experience.
Lenders require personal financial information to assess the borrower's overall financial health and commitment. This includes SBA Form 1919 (Borrower Information Form), a personal financial statement detailing assets and liabilities, and federal income tax returns for the last three years. A resume helps lenders evaluate the applicant's management experience and capacity to run the business.
When applying for an SBA 7(a) loan, you would provide your Personal Financial Statement (SBA Form 413), federal tax returns for 2021, 2022, and 2023, and a resume highlighting your past management roles in the retail sector.
Insider move
Lenders carefully review personal documentation to assess the borrower's financial capacity, character, and management ability. Any inconsistencies or missing information can cause delays or raise red flags during underwriting.
7(a) Loan Program — Terms, Conditions, and Eligibility
U.S. Small Business Administration · Official SBA source
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
SBA Form 1919 - Borrower Information Form
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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