Glossary · The loan itself
Character-based eligibility criterion
In short
A set of SBA rules that assess the honesty and integrity of a borrower and key principals. Past criminal history or certain financial issues can make you ineligible for a loan.
What it means in a deal
The SBA wants to ensure borrowers are trustworthy. This criterion looks at things like criminal records, past bankruptcies, or defaults on federal debt. Be prepared to disclose all relevant information on Form 1919; misrepresentation can lead to loan denial or even fraud charges.
Official sources
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
SOP 50 10 — Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
U.S. Small Business Administration · SBA Standard Operating Procedure
Last checked 2026-06-15. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Related terms
Common questions about Character-based eligibility criterion
- If my business is home-based, does that affect its eligibility for an SBA 7(a) acquisition loan?
- How does the SBA determine if a business is considered "small" for eligibility based on its NAICS code?
- What basic character requirements must business owners meet when applying for an SBA 7(a) loan?
- How does a lender assess 'good character' for all principals on a 7(a) loan application?
- What are the basic character requirements for business owners applying for an SBA 7(a) loan?
- Are there any specific character or background checks for owners applying for an SBA 7(a) loan?
Defined by CapBench 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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