Running a business is no small feat, and a number of veterans have taken the leap to own and operate their own enterprise after serving our country. According to a recent report published by the United States Census Bureau, veteran-owned businesses made up about 5.2% (304,823) of all businesses, with an estimated $922.2 billion in receipts, approximately 3.3 million employees, and about $179.9 billion in annual payroll.
One key financing option available to veteran-owned businesses is SBA veteran loans, which are specifically designed to help veterans secure the funding they need.
Even with the freedom to be in the driver’s seat, you may face some financial challenges as a veteran entrepreneur. Growing a successful business takes more than a great product or service: Keeping on top of cash flow is essential. Here are some financing options that may help your veteran-owned business thrive.
SBA (Small Business Administration) Loans
If you’ve been in business for over two years and have strong credit and cash flow, SBA loans are generally considered the gold standard. These loans offer long repayment terms, longer repayment terms, and manageable monthly payments.
Veterans may also qualify for the SBA Veterans Advantage Program, which offers reduced fees and other benefits. This may make SBA loans even more appealing for veteran-owned businesses.
The primary SBA loan options include the SBA 7(a), the Express loan, the CDC/504 loan, and the microloan program. While the SBA doesn’t directly issue these loans, it guarantees a portion of the loan, reducing the risk for lenders and improving the chances of approval.
The SBA's Veterans Advantage Loan Program
For businesses majority-owned by veterans, the SBA has their Veterans Advantage Loan program. The SBA Veterans Advantage is a comprehensive program that includes various loan options in addition to other benefits designed to support veterans. The program applies to both the SBA Express and SBA 7(a) loans.
Benefits of the SBA Veterans Advantage Loan Program
The Veterans Advantage program offers many benefits to veteran-owned businesses looking for financing.
- Lower fees: For many Veterans Advantage program loans, guarantee fees may be completely waived.
- Less paperwork: Veterans participating in the program may have reduced SBA loan paperwork.
- Training and counseling: The SBA offers online and in-person training and mentorship, such as its Boots to Business and Veterans’ Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs). Both Boots to Business and VBOCs are free resources aimed at helping our military community transition from defending freedom to embracing free enterprise. They provide entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and support for qualifying veteran-owned businesses.
Remember, while the Veterans Advantage program offers significant benefits, it still requires a solid credit score and strong business financials. However, it may be an excellent way for eligible veteran entrepreneurs to access capital and grow their businesses.
Qualifications for SBA Veterans Advantage
You and your business must meet certain requirements to qualify for a Veterans Advantage loan from the SBA. These requirements include:
- Be at least 51% owned and controlled by eligible veterans, active duty service members, or military spouses/widows.
- The veteran must have been honorably discharged or classified as service-disabled.
The following are also considered:
- Active-duty military members involved in the Transition Assistance Program are also eligible.
- National Guard members or active reservists may qualify as well.
- Current spouses of veterans, active-duty members, reservists, or National Guard members, as well as widowed spouses of service members who passed away during service or from a service-related injury, are also eligible.
Additionally, you must provide documentation of your veteran status, such as a DD Form 214 or a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Getting ahead of these requirements and preparing in advance will increase your chances of securing the right SBA loan for your veteran-owned business.
SBA Veterans Advantage 7(a) loan program
SBA 7(a) loans are not exclusive to veterans; however, there are some additional benefits for veterans who qualify under the Veterans Advantage program. For those who qualify, loans under $150,000 have no guarantee or service fee, and loans under $350,000 have a 50% reduction in guarantee fees.
SBA 7(a) loans may offer flexible solutions to help your business grow while keeping costs manageable. These funds may be used in a variety of ways to support your business goals.
- Working capital – Invest in new equipment, expand your inventory, boost marketing efforts, cover operational costs, or hire additional team members.
- Debt consolidation – Simplify payments by refinancing high-interest loans, short-term business financing, merchant cash advances, or credit card debt.
- Commercial real estate – Purchase or refinance office space, warehouses, or other owner-occupied properties to secure long-term savings and avoid balloon payments.
For more details on the SBA 7(a) loan, check out our guide: What is an SBA loan?
Advantages of SBA 7(a) Loans
SBA 7(a) loans typically offer significant benefits for veteran-owned businesses that qualify. Since the government partially guarantees these loans, lenders like SmartBiz® face less risk, which may make it easier for veterans to secure financing even if they don’t meet the strict criteria of traditional loans. Some of the key advantages of SBA 7(a) loans for veterans may include:
- Extended repayment terms for easier financial management
- Low monthly payments to reduce strain on cash flow
- Flexible use of funds, whether for working capital, equipment, or real estate
- No prepayment penalties, giving you the freedom to repay early without added costs
- Nationwide availability, so veterans everywhere can apply
You will need to explore the various SBA loan options available and discover which one best fits your business needs.
Requirements to apply for an SBA 7(a) loan
Each lender and loan program has its own eligibility requirements, but to apply for an SBA loan through SmartBiz, you’ll generally need to meet the following criteria:
- At least two years in business
- Personal credit score of 650 or higher
- U.S.-based business owned by a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
- No outstanding tax liens
- No foreclosures or bankruptcies in the past three years
- Current on any government-backed loans
How to Apply for an SBA 7(a) Loan
When you are ready to apply, here’s a quick breakdown of the application process:
- Check your eligibility – Make sure your business meets the basic requirements. You can find a list of eligible businesses on the SBA website.
- Organize your paperwork – The application process moves faster when you have all your documents ready. Make sure you have all the necessary documents in order to speed up the process. .
- Select a lender – SmartBiz can help match you with the best option for your business. We streamline the process so you don’t have to go from bank to bank. SmartBiz is proud to support veteran-owned businesses, facilitating 6% of SBA loans for veterans, compared to the national average of 4%.
You can also watch our step-by-step video on how to apply for an SBA loan.
SBA Veterans Advantage Express loans
SBA Express loans are a type of loan that offers flexible and fast financing options for small businesses, including those owned by veterans. These loans are similar to the SBA 7(a), but with a faster turnaround time. They provide up to $350,000 in funding and may be used for a variety of business purposes, such as working capital, real estate acquisitions, and equipment purchases. SBA Express loans have a faster application process than traditional SBA loans, with an application response time of around 36 hours or less. These loans are available through approved SBA lenders nationwide.
Advantages of SBA Express Loans
SBA Express loans under the Veterans Advantage program have the same great benefits as the SBA 7(a) loan, plus a faster turnaround time for veterans who apply. The expedited process of SBA Express loans generally makes them an attractive option for small businesses that need quick access to funds. With a streamlined application and faster approval times, veteran business owners may secure the financing they need without the lengthy wait. This flexibility empowers veteran business owners to meet pressing business demands while seizing growth opportunities as they come their way.
The SBA's 504 Loan Program
Veteran-owned businesses may also consider the SBA 504 loan program, which provides affordable financing for business expansion or modernization. Under this program, SBA-backed lenders typically cover up to 50% of the project costs, with Community Development Corporations (CDCs) contributing another 40%. The remaining 10% is a cash down payment required from the business owner.
A 504 SBA loan may be a good fit for veteran-owned small business owners interested in purchasing commercial real estate. Visit the SBA to find your local CDC.
The SBA's Microloan Program
For smaller businesses, the SBA Microloan Program provides up to $50,000 in funding. Each lender may have different requirements to qualify. While microloan funds may be used for many types of business expenses, they cannot be used for paying down existing debt or purchasing real estate.
Disadvantages of SBA Loans for veterans
While SBA loans typically offer many benefits, there are also some disadvantages to consider. These include:
- The application process may be lengthy and complex
- The SBA has strict eligibility requirements, which may make it difficult for some businesses to qualify
- The SBA requires collateral for most loans, which may be a challenge for businesses with limited assets
- The SBA has fees associated with its loans, including a guarantee fee and a servicing fee
Being aware of these potential challenges may help you make a well-informed choice about whether an SBA loan is the right fit for your business. While the benefits are generally significant, the challenges may be substantial, and it’s important to weigh these factors carefully. By being aware of these disadvantages, you may better prepare and navigate the loan application process.
Non-SBA bank loans for veterans
Low-cost SBA loans typically have some of the lowest interest rates and lowest monthly payments available. However, only some business owners initially qualify, and some businesses need funds more quickly than the SBA application process can provide.
SmartBiz works to offer clients another loan option – a bank term loan.
Unlike the 10-year term of an SBA loan, non-SBA loans generally have shorter repayment periods. These loans typically provide a practical solution for obtaining the funds needed to grow or maintain your business until you qualify for an SBA loan.
SmartBiz currently offers non-SBA loans. Here are the details:
- $30,000 to $200,000 loan amounts
- 2 – 5 year repayment terms
- Fixed interest rate from 7.99% to 24.99%*
- Monthly repayments
- No pre-payment penalties
- Funds can be used for debt refinance, working capital, and new equipment purchase
Common mistakes to avoid for veterans applying for SBA loans
When applying for an SBA loan as a veteran, there are generally several common mistakes to avoid. Some of these include:
- Not meeting the SBA’s eligibility requirements
- Not providing complete and accurate documentation
- Not having a solid business plan and financial projections
- Not seeking the help of a qualified lender or business advisor
Avoiding these common mistakes may boost your chances of securing an SBA loan and obtaining the capital necessary to grow your business. Thoroughly preparing your application, understanding the eligibility criteria, and working with an experienced SBA loan partner may make a substantial difference in the approval process.
Next Steps for Veteran-Owned Businesses
Ready to apply for an SBA loan? Apply now without impacting your credit score.*
If you need more time to get ready for an SBA loan, our loan experts will help you explore other options.
