SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business) Certification
SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business) certification is a federal program providing access to 3% of all federal contracting dollars reserved for service-disabled veteran-owned businesses. Certification requires 51% ownership by veterans with service-connected disabilities rated by the VA, plus veteran control of business operations.
Quick Overview
What isSDVOSB?
SDVOSB certification requires the business to be 51% owned by service-disabled veterans with VA disability ratings, with those veterans controlling management and daily operations.
Who Qualifies?
- Service-Connected Disability
- 51% Ownership by Service-Disabled Veterans
- Veteran Control
Eligibility Requirements
Key requirements you must meet to qualify for SDVOSB certification
Service-Connected Disability
Owner(s) must have a service-connected disability rating from the VA. Any rating from 0% to 100% qualifies.
51% Ownership by Service-Disabled Veterans
Service-disabled veterans must unconditionally own at least 51% of the business.
Veteran Control
Service-disabled veteran(s) must control day-to-day management and long-term decision-making.
Small Business Size
Business must qualify as small under SBA size standards for its primary NAICS code.
Benefits of SDVOSB Certification
What you gain with SDVOSB certification
Access to 3% federal contracting goal for SDVOSBs
Sole-source contracts up to $7 million (manufacturing) or $4.5 million (other)
Priority for VA contracts under Vets First program
Competitive set-aside contracts across all federal agencies
Can combine with HUBZone for enhanced preferences
Strong congressional support for SDVOSB contracting
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to getting your SDVOSB certification
Obtain VA Disability Rating
Varies (can take months if not already rated)If not already rated, file a disability claim with the VA. Any service-connected rating (0-100%) qualifies.
Verify SAM Registration
If not registered: 7-10 daysEnsure active SAM.gov registration before applying for SDVOSB certification.
Apply Through Certify.SBA.gov
1-2 weeksComplete the SDVOSB application with disability documentation and ownership proof.
SBA Review
30-60 daysSBA verifies service-connected disability, ownership, and control requirements.
Certification Approval
1-30 daysUpon approval, business can immediately pursue SDVOSB set-aside contracts.
Required Documents
Documentation needed for your SDVOSB application
DIY vs Professional SDVOSB Help
Compare your options for getting certified
Do It Yourself
- No professional fees
- Learn the process yourself
- Time investment: 20-40+ hours
- Higher risk of errors and delays
Best for: Businesses with dedicated admin staff and flexibility on timeline
Expert Assistance
Recommended- Expert guidance through requirements
- Avoid common mistakes and delays
- Faster approval timeline
- Free initial consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SDVOSB certification
What is SDVOSB certification?
SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business) certification provides access to federal contracts set aside for businesses owned by veterans with service-connected disabilities. The federal government has a 3% contracting goal for SDVOSBs.
What disability rating do I need for SDVOSB?
Any service-connected disability rating from the VA qualifies, including 0%. The rating must be for a disability incurred or aggravated during active military service.
What is the Vets First program?
Vets First is a VA program giving procurement priority to verified SDVOSBs and VOSBs for VA contracts. SDVOSBs receive first priority, making VA contracts particularly valuable for SDVOSB-certified businesses.
Can I be SDVOSB-certified if my disability is 0%?
Yes, a 0% service-connected disability rating qualifies for SDVOSB certification. The rating acknowledges a service-connected condition exists, even if it currently has no compensable symptoms.
How do I prove my service-connected disability?
Submit your VA disability rating letter (Summary of Benefits letter from VA.gov) showing service-connected disability. This official VA document verifies your rating percentage and service connection.
What contracts can SDVOSBs compete for?
SDVOSBs can compete for SDVOSB set-aside contracts across all federal agencies, plus sole-source awards up to $7 million (manufacturing) or $4.5 million (other). VA contracts give SDVOSBs priority under Vets First.
Related Certifications
Other certifications that may benefit your business
Ready to Get Your SDVOSB Certification?
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