Question 1

What is SBA's VetCert program?

Accepted Answer

SBA's VetCert (Veteran Small Business Certification) program is the official federal certification for SDVOSBs and VOSBs. As of January 1, 2023, SBA assumed responsibility for SDVOSB certification from the VA's Center for Verification and Evaluation (CVE). VetCert certification is required to compete for SDVOSB set-aside contracts across all federal agencies, including the VA. Certifications are valid for three years.

Question 2

How does a business register as an SDVOSB?

Accepted Answer

To register as an SDVOSB, you must: (1) register in SAM.gov with a valid UEI, (2) apply for SBA VetCert certification at certify.sba.gov, submitting required documents including military service records, VA disability rating, ownership documents, and financial statements. After SBA approves your VetCert certification, your status is reflected in SAM.gov. Self-certification alone is no longer sufficient for most contracts.

Question 3

What replaced the VA CVE verification program?

Accepted Answer

The VA's Center for Verification and Evaluation (CVE) formerly handled SDVOSB and VOSB verification for VA contracts. As of January 1, 2023, SBA's VetCert program fully replaced VA CVE verification. Existing CVE verifications were transitioned to SBA VetCert. Businesses that were previously CVE-verified needed to recertify under VetCert. The VetBiz.gov database is no longer used — VetCert status appears in SAM.gov.

Question 4

What documents are required for SBA VetCert application?

Accepted Answer

Required documents typically include: DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), VA disability rating letter or DoD determination, federal tax returns (3 years), ownership documents (articles of incorporation, operating agreement, or partnership agreement), government-issued ID for all owners, and any joint venture or mentor-protégé agreements if applicable. SBA may request additional documents during review.

What is SBA's VetCert program?

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