Glossary · People and paperwork
Serious Criminal Offense
In short
This refers to certain felonies or crimes of moral turpitude that can make a loan applicant ineligible for an SBA loan.
What it means in a deal
If you or any key principal have a serious criminal offense on your record, it can prevent SBA loan approval, especially if it's a felony, a crime involving fraud, or if you're currently incarcerated or on probation/parole. The SBA uses a look-back period to assess eligibility, so be upfront about any past issues on 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 Serious Criminal Offense
- What constitutes a 'serious criminal offense' that may cause 7(a) loan ineligibility for a principal?
- Can a minor past criminal offense prevent me from getting an SBA 7(a) loan?
- What specific types of prior criminal offenses are generally disqualifying for an SBA 7(a) loan?
- What specific types of criminal offenses are generally disqualifying for an SBA 7(a) loan applicant or owner?
- Can an arrest record without conviction for a minor offense affect my SBA 7(a) loan approval?
- Which criminal history issues commonly prevent SBA loan approval?
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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