SBA Veteran Advantage Guide
The SBA Veteran Advantage program waives the upfront guaranty fee on 7(a) loans for qualifying veteran-owned businesses. Calculate your fee savings and walk through the exact steps to apply.
Fee Savings Calculator
YOUR FEE SAVINGS
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How to Apply — Step by Step
Verify your eligibility. You must own ≥51% of the business. For SDVOSB status, you need a VA service-connected disability rating. Gather your DD-214, VA rating letter, and business ownership documents.
Find an SBA-approved lender. Use the SBA Lender Match tool at lendermatch.sba.gov. Preferred Lenders can approve loans without additional SBA review — faster processing.
Complete SBA Form 1920. This is the Lender's Application for Loan Guaranty. Your lender fills most of it out, but you'll need to provide business financials, 3 years tax returns, and a business plan.
Certify veteran status. Mark the veteran ownership box on SBA Form 1919 (Borrower Information). No additional certification is required for fee waiver — the lender verifies with your DD-214.
Close the loan. Once approved, the SBA fee is waived at closing. Keep a copy of your approval letter — it documents the fee waiver for your records.
As of FY2024, the SBA waives the guaranty fee on all 7(a) loans up to $150,000 for veteran-owned businesses. For loans above $150,000, the upfront fee is reduced by 50% for SDVOSBs and VOBs. The ongoing servicing fee (0.52% annually) is not waived.