SBA VetCert Certification: SDVOSB & VOSB Guide
Complete guide to obtaining your SDVOSB or VOSB certification through the SBA's VetCert program, including eligibility requirements and application process.
- VetCert is administered by the SBA at certifications.sba.gov (not the VA)
- Both SDVOSB and VOSB certifications are available through VetCert
- Certification is valid for 3 years and must be renewed
- The veteran must own at least 51% and control daily operations
- You must be registered in SAM.gov before applying
The SBA's VetCert program is the official certification for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) and Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSB). This certification is required to compete for SDVOSB and VOSB set-aside contracts with any federal agency.
As of January 2023, the SBA's VetCert program replaced the VA's Verification Program. All veteran-owned businesses seeking to compete for set-aside contracts must now apply through VetCert at certifications.sba.gov.
This guide explains the eligibility requirements, application process, and what to expect during the certification review.
Step-by-Step Process
Verify Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, confirm you meet all requirements: you must be a U.S. veteran (or service-disabled veteran for SDVOSB), own at least 51% of the business, control the management and daily operations, and the business must be small under SBA size standards.
Tip
The veteran must hold the highest officer position or be able to demonstrate clear control.
Complete SAM.gov Registration
You must have an active SAM.gov registration before applying for VetCert. Your SAM registration must include accurate information about your business structure and veteran ownership status.
Tip
Make sure your SAM registration is current and shows your veteran-owned business status.
Gather Required Documents
Collect all required documentation including DD-214 (proof of veteran status), VA disability rating letter (for SDVOSB), business formation documents, proof of ownership, financial statements, and tax returns.
Tip
Organize documents before starting - incomplete applications are a common cause of delays.
Create a Certify.SBA.gov Account
Create an account at certifications.sba.gov using Login.gov. This is the official portal for all SBA certification programs including VetCert, 8(a), HUBZone, and WOSB.
SBA Certify PortalComplete the VetCert Application
Log in and start your VetCert application. You'll provide information about the veteran owner(s), business structure, ownership percentages, management control, and business operations. Upload all required documents.
Tip
Answer all questions completely and accurately. Incomplete answers lead to requests for information (RFIs) that delay processing.
Submit Application and Await Review
After submission, the SBA will review your application. They may send Requests for Information (RFIs) if they need additional documentation or clarification. Respond to RFIs promptly to avoid delays.
Tip
Monitor your email and the Certify portal regularly for RFIs. You typically have 10 business days to respond.
Receive Certification Decision
Once the review is complete, you'll receive a certification decision. If approved, your certification is valid for 3 years. If denied, you'll receive an explanation and can appeal or reapply after addressing the issues.
Tip
Approved certifications are reflected in SAM.gov - verify your status there after approval.
VetCert Document Checklist
Prepare these documents before starting your application:
DD Form 214
Proof of honorable discharge for all veteran owners
VA Disability Rating Letter
Required for SDVOSB certification only
Business formation documents
Articles of incorporation, operating agreement, or partnership agreement
Proof of ownership
Stock certificates, membership certificates, or capital accounts
Business licenses and permits
Two years of business tax returns
Or since inception if less than 2 years
Two years of personal tax returns
For all owners with 20%+ ownership
Current financial statements
Balance sheet and income statement
Organizational chart
Showing management structure and reporting relationships
Resumes of key personnel
Especially for veteran owner(s)
Bank signature cards
Showing who has authority over business accounts
Payroll records
Showing veteran's compensation and role
Common Mistakes to Avoid
51% ownership is the minimum
The veteran must own at least 51% of the business. This ownership must be unconditional - options, warrants, or convertible securities held by non-veterans can disqualify your business.
Control means day-to-day control
The veteran must control the day-to-day management and decision-making. Having a veteran as a figurehead owner while a non-veteran actually runs the business will result in denial.
The business must be small
Your business must qualify as a small business under SBA size standards for your primary NAICS code. Check size standards at sba.gov/size-standards.
Self-certification is not enough
Simply claiming VOSB/SDVOSB status in SAM.gov is not the same as VetCert certification. Only VetCert-certified businesses can compete for most set-aside contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between SDVOSB and VOSB?
SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business) requires the veteran owner to have a service-connected disability rated by the VA. VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business) is for veteran owners without a service-connected disability. SDVOSB contracts are more common and have more set-aside opportunities.
How long does VetCert certification take?
The SBA aims to complete reviews within 90 days. However, processing time varies based on application volume and complexity. Responding quickly to any Requests for Information (RFIs) helps speed up the process.
Do I need VetCert for VA contracts specifically?
Yes. As of January 2023, VetCert certification is required for all SDVOSB and VOSB set-aside contracts, including those from the VA. The VA's previous verification program has been replaced by VetCert.
Can a franchise be VetCert certified?
It depends on the franchise agreement. The veteran must have unconditional control over the business. Many franchise agreements give too much control to the franchisor, which can disqualify the business.
What happens if my certification is denied?
You can request reconsideration within 10 business days if you have new information. Otherwise, you can appeal to the SBA's Office of Hearings and Appeals within 45 days. You can also reapply after 90 days if you've addressed the reasons for denial.
Official Sources
This guide references the following official government sources:
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