Business
SBA VetCert: VOSB and SDVOSB Certification
The certification a veteran-owned business needs to compete for federal set-aside and sole-source contracts.
Certification is required. SBA states that all veteran firms had to be certified through SBA VetCert by December 22, 2024 to count for subcontracting and contracting goals.
What it is
VetCert is the SBA program that certifies Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSB) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB). Certified businesses can compete for federal contracts set aside for veterans, including sole-source awards. The federal government aims to award at least 5 percent of all federal contracting dollars to SDVOSBs each year. That is a goal, not a promise to you.
Who qualifies
- At least 51 percent of the business is owned and controlled by one or more veterans (13 CFR Part 128).
- The business is small under its industry size standard (NAICS code).
- SBA lists that the owner must be identified by VA as a Veteran, or as a Service-Disabled Veteran for SDVOSB.
- SDVOSB: 51 percent owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans. If a veteran has a permanent and severe disability, the spouse or permanent caregiver can hold ownership or run daily operations, as SBA describes it.
How to apply, step by step
- Go to the SBA Certifications portal (link below).
- Use the eligibility checklist on the portal first.
- File the application electronically on SBA's website. You carry the burden of proving you are eligible, so upload everything asked for.
- Answer any SBA request for more documents fast. Failing to answer properly is grounds for denial under the rule.
- Search for your firm in the portal's certified-business search once approved.
1Go to the SBA Certifications portal (link below).
2Use the eligibility checklist on the portal first.
3File the application electronically on SBA's website. You carry the burden of proving you are eligible, so upload everything asked
4Answer any SBA request for more documents fast. Failing to answer properly is grounds for denial under the rule.
Deadlines and traps
- Recertify every 3 years. You may recertify within the 90 days before your certification period ends.
- If you miss the date, SBA will decertify you. Reinstatement is possible if you recertify within 30 days after it expires.
- The rule requires the veteran to own and control at least 51 percent of the business.
VetCert certification
Where to call and where to go
Phone
- SBA VetCert help line: 866-722-4357 (866-SBA-HELP), Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET. Source: SBA veteran contracting programs
- Email: certifications@sba.gov
Official pages