Glossary · People and paperwork
Criminal Record
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.
What it means in a deal
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.
Official sources
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.
Related terms
Common questions about Criminal Record
- Can a past criminal record impact my eligibility for an SBA 7(a) loan?
- Does having a criminal record automatically disqualify me from an SBA 7(a) loan?
- Does having a past criminal record prevent me from getting an SBA 7(a) loan?
- Does having a past criminal record automatically disqualify me for an SBA 7(a) loan?
- Will having a past criminal record prevent me from getting an SBA 7(a) loan?
- How does a past criminal record affect my eligibility 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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