Federal Contractor Readiness Guide
How to Apply for SDVOSB
Obtain SBA Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification and reflect the status in SAM.gov to compete for SDVOSB set-asides.
What it is
The SDVOSB program verifies that a small business is owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans, enabling competition for VA and other agency SDVOSB set-asides.
Who needs it
Small businesses owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans pursuing set-aside opportunities that require SBA SDVOSB certification.
Prerequisites
- Active SAM.gov registration
- Service-connected disability documentation as defined by SBA
- Login.gov access to certify.sba.gov
Step-by-step process
- 1. Review SDVOSB eligibility rules
Confirm veteran ownership, control, and small business size standards using SBA's official SDVOSB program guidance.
- 2. Collect veteran and business documentation
Gather DD-214 or equivalent service records, disability determinations, and corporate documents showing ownership and control.
- 3. Apply through certify.sba.gov
Complete the SDVOSB certification application in the SBA portal and upload supporting evidence.
- 4. Align SAM.gov representations
After approval, update SAM.gov socioeconomic data and monitor SBA annual verification requirements.
Information and documents you need
- Veteran owner's service and disability details
- Ownership and control structure
- UEI
- DD Form 214 or equivalent
- VA disability letter when applicable
- Operating agreements
Cost
No federal application fee is described on SBA's official SDVOSB certification materials.
Typical processing time
Processing time varies; the official source does not publish a guaranteed completion timeframe.
Common mistakes
- Relying on self-certification where SBA certification is required
- Ownership structures that do not demonstrate control by the service-disabled veteran
- Letting SAM.gov socioeconomic data lapse after approval
What happens after approval / completion
Bid SDVOSB set-asides, maintain certification through SBA attestations, and update SAM if ownership changes.
Official sources
- SBA — SDVOSB Program (primary)
- SBA — Certification Portal (primary)