Federal Certification
VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business) Certification
SBA VetCert VOSB certification verifies that a small business meets veteran ownership and control rules. There is no government-wide VOSB prime-contracting goal or VOSB set-aside authority. Certified VOSBs may pursue eligible VA Veterans First set-aside and sole-source opportunities; government-wide veteran set-asides are for certified SDVOSBs.
Quick Overview
What isVOSB?
VOSB certification generally requires the business to be small under an applicable NAICS code in its SAM profile, at least 51% directly and unconditionally owned by qualifying veterans, and controlled by qualifying veterans under 13 CFR part 128.
Eligibility Requirements
Common factors reviewed for VOSB
Veteran Status
Owner(s) must be veterans as defined by 38 U.S.C. 101(2): served on active duty and was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
51% Veteran Ownership
One or more veterans must unconditionally own at least 51% of the business.
Veteran Control
Veterans must control the management and daily business operations. The highest officer position must be held by a veteran.
Small Business Size
For certification, the firm must be small under a NAICS code listed in its SAM profile. For a contract, it must be small under the NAICS code assigned to that solicitation.
Potential Program Benefits of VOSB Certification
Program benefits for VOSB certification
Eligibility for VA VOSB set-aside and sole-source opportunities when VA rules are met
Priority behind certified SDVOSBs within the VA Veterans First order of consideration
Potential eligibility for federal surplus personal property under 13 CFR 128.700
Recognition in SBA's certification records for VOSB status
No government-wide VOSB set-aside or VOSB prime-contracting percentage goal
Application Process
Common preparation and agency-review steps for VOSB certification
Verify SAM Registration
If not registered: Allow at least 10 business days after submission for a registration to become active. Validation issues can take longer.Ensure active SAM.gov registration. This is required before applying for VOSB certification.
Gather Veteran Documentation
Obtain DD-214 or other documentation proving veteran status for all veteran owners.
Apply Through MySBA Certifications
Complete the SBA veteran certification application in MySBA Certifications with ownership and control documentation.
SBA Review
Timing varies with completeness and SBA workloadSBA reviews application and verifies veteran status, ownership, and control.
Certification Decision
After SBA review is completeSBA issues a certification decision after completing its review.
Commonly Requested Documents
The current agency or certifier checklist controls the records needed for a VOSB application
Apply yourself or use paid support
You can apply directly through the issuing agency or certifier. Our optional paid service helps organize the checklist and review your application materials within an agreed scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about VOSB certification
What is VOSB certification?
SBA VetCert VOSB certification verifies that a small business meets the veteran ownership, control, size, and other eligibility requirements in 13 CFR part 128. Its set-aside and sole-source contracting benefit applies through VA's Veterans First program, not government-wide.
Is there a federal set-aside for VOSBs?
There is no government-wide federal contracting percentage goal specifically for VOSBs. The SDVOSB government-wide prime-contracting goal is 5%. VOSB certification can qualify a firm for VA Vets First opportunities.
What is the difference between VOSB and SDVOSB?
VOSB relies on qualifying veteran ownership and control. SDVOSB relies on qualifying service-disabled-veteran ownership and control. Certified SDVOSBs may pursue eligible set-aside and sole-source opportunities government-wide and receive first priority at VA; certified VOSBs may pursue eligible Veterans First opportunities at VA.
What documentation proves veteran status?
DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is the primary document. Veterans who lost their DD-214 can request a replacement through the National Personnel Records Center or eVetRecs.
Can Reserve or National Guard members qualify?
13 CFR 128.102 includes a Reservist or National Guard member called to federal active duty, or disabled from a disease or injury incurred or aggravated in line of duty or while in training status, in its veteran definition. SBA and VA records determine qualifying status for an application.
How long is VOSB certification valid?
SBA VetCert certification generally has a three-year certification period. Firms must continue to meet eligibility requirements, report relevant changes, and complete renewal in MySBA Certifications when required.
Primary Sources
Reviewed July 20, 2026.
Related Certifications
Separate program guides that may be relevant to your business
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