SBA Form 1919: The Form That Determines Eligibility
Among the many SBA forms, Form 1919 — the Borrower Information Form — is one of the most important. It captures the information the SBA uses to determine eligibility, and answers given here can disqualify a borrower before underwriting even starts.
What the Form Asks
Form 1919 collects basic identifying information, business ownership structure, citizenship, and a series of yes/no questions about criminal history, federal debt, prior SBA loans, and current involvement in any legal proceedings. Every owner with 20% or more must complete one.
Answers That Trigger Additional Scrutiny
A 'yes' answer to questions about pending criminal proceedings, prior incarceration, parole, probation, or arrest within the last six months typically triggers SBA character determination. This does not automatically disqualify the borrower but requires additional documentation and review.
Federal Debt Delinquency Is a Hard Stop
Delinquent federal student loans, unpaid federal taxes without a formal installment agreement, defaulted federal loans, and prior SBA defaults will typically prevent approval until resolved.
Be Truthful
Lenders verify these answers through background checks. Inconsistencies between what is reported on Form 1919 and what the verification reveals are treated as material misrepresentation and can result in immediate denial.
Educational content only — not advice. KQT Advisors, LLC is a commercial loan broker; we are not a lender, attorney, accountant, financial advisor, or fiduciary. We do not originate loans or make lending decisions. The information in this article is provided strictly for general informational and educational purposes and reflects our understanding at the time of writing. It is not — and must not be construed as — financial, tax, legal, accounting, investment, or any other professional advice, and creates no advisor-client relationship. Loan programs, rates, terms, eligibility requirements, fees, and approval criteria are set by individual lenders, the SBA, and other parties and are subject to change at any time without notice. Examples are illustrative only and not guarantees of outcome. Nothing here is a commitment to lend, an offer of credit, or a representation that any specific structure will be available to or appropriate for any borrower. Always consult your own qualified financial, tax, and legal advisors before acting on any information in this article. To the maximum extent permitted by law, KQT Advisors, LLC and its principals, employees, agents, and affiliates disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental loss or damage arising out of any use of, reliance on, or inability to use the information in this article.