Glossary · Doing the deal
lien searches
In short
These investigations check public records to identify any existing claims or security interests (liens) against the business's assets or the seller. This ensures you're buying assets free and clear.
What it means in a deal
Your lender will conduct UCC lien searches and other lien searches (e.g., tax liens) on the seller and the business to confirm that the assets you are acquiring are unencumbered. Any existing liens must be satisfied at closing, or your lender will not have first lien position, which is a deal-breaker for SBA loans.
Official sources
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 lien searches
- When must a lender take a lien on specific equipment for collateral, beyond a blanket lien?
- Is a separate lien required on each piece of equipment if a blanket lien is already in place?
- Does the SBA take a lien on my personal home as collateral?
- Is a blanket lien on all business assets a standard SBA requirement?
- What is the SBA's general requirement for lien position on business collateral?
- Is a UCC-1 filing sufficient to perfect a lien on business assets?
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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