Glossary · People and paperwork
Look-Back Period
In short
This is the specific timeframe the SBA reviews an applicant's criminal history to determine eligibility for a loan. It's typically one year for certain offenses.
What it means in a deal
For certain non-financial felonies and misdemeanors, the SBA has a one-year look-back period from the date of conviction or release from incarceration/supervision, whichever is later. If you have a relevant criminal history, understand this period to assess your eligibility. Always provide accurate details on SBA Form 1919.
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 Look-Back Period
- What is the specific look-back period for an owner's prior felony conviction on SBA Form 1919?
- What is the specific look-back period for prior ownership interests when determining affiliation for a 7(a) loan?
- What is the specific look-back period for criminal history when evaluating an applicant's eligibility for an SBA 7(a) loan?
- How far back does the SBA look into my personal credit history for a 7(a) loan application?
- What if the seller wants to be paid back earlier than the SBA standby period allows?
- Do I really have to pay back 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.
Know what you'll need before you apply
Tell us about the deal and who's buying — we'll flag the guaranty, eligibility, and paperwork issues that slow SBA approval before they cost you time.
Free · No documents · Usually same-day
Backed by data on 1,000+ SBA lenders and 300,000+ funded deals. Your details go only to lending partners you ask to be matched with — never sold to advertisers.