Industry Insights
SBA SOP 50 10 8 – Video 1 – Program & Eligibility Changes Part 1
April 25, 2025
Video #1: Program & Eligibility Changes Part 1
An overview of key program updates, including delegated lender restrictions, revised borrower eligibility standards, the return of the Franchise Directory, and new SBSS score and loan cap requirements.
SBA SOP 50 10 8 Update Overview
Franchise Directory Re-established: Incorporate a workflow task to check the SBA Franchise Registry for franchise loan requests.
Borrower Eligibility: Lenders are fully responsible for determining eligibility. Consider creating a consolidated certification covering:
- Review of Form 1919 (note: an updated version is forthcoming).
- Certification of direct and indirect ownership and eligibility status.
- CAIVRS Search: Make this a required step in the Loan Origination System (LOS) with an exception option, rather than a program-level configuration.
Delegated Lenders: Delegated lenders cannot submit loans for SBA General Processing (GP) review. They will use the SBA exceptions process and designated email for guidance on complex structures.
7(a) Small Dollar Loans: Loan cap reduced to $350,000 for standard 7(a) loans; SBA Express loans remain at $500,000.
Minimum SBSS Score: Increased to 165 (previously 155; no clarity on changes for former Community Advantage lenders).
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