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How to Register Your Business as Veteran-Owned
Learn the steps to register your business as veteran-owned, unlocking opportunities for federal contracts and consumer trust.
Table of Contents
How to Register Your Business as Veteran-Owned
Here’s why it matters:
Federal agencies allocate 5% of contracts to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) annually.
The Department of Veterans Affairs reserves 7% of contracts for VOSBs/SDVOSBs.
Two-thirds of consumers prefer veteran-owned businesses, giving you a competitive edge.
Steps to Certify:
Register on SAM.gov: Get a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and register your business.
Apply via SBA VetCert: Submit proof of veteran status, ownership, and control.
Verify through VA VetBiz: Complete the VA’s Vets First Verification for additional contracting opportunities.
Key Requirements:
Veterans must own 51% of the business.
Meet Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards (based on employees or revenue).
Veterans must oversee daily operations and hold top leadership roles.
Why Certify?
Access set-aside contracts and sole-source opportunities.
Gain consumer trust and build partnerships with companies seeking veteran-owned suppliers.
Unlock funding programs and grants tailored to veteran entrepreneurs.
Pro Tip: Keep your certification updated annually on SAM.gov and report any business changes to avoid losing eligibility.
First Look & Live Demo: SBA Veteran Small Business Certification Program
Eligibility Requirements for Certification
To qualify for veteran-owned business certification, businesses must meet specific criteria in ownership, business size, and operational control. Each category comes with clear thresholds and documentation requirements to determine eligibility as a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).
Ownership and Control Rules
The cornerstone of veteran-owned certification is the 51% ownership rule. For VOSB certification, veterans must directly and unconditionally own at least 51% of the business. For SDVOSB certification, the same ownership percentage must be held by service-disabled veterans[7].
Ownership must be direct, meaning veterans cannot hold their stake through trusts, holding companies, or other indirect setups. Documentation, such as formation papers, is required to prove this ownership.
In addition to ownership, veterans must have full control over the business's strategy and daily operations. The qualifying veteran must hold the top leadership position, like President or CEO - and possess the managerial expertise needed for the business's complexity[12]. For SDVOSB certification, daily operations can be managed by a spouse or permanent caregiver, as long as the service-disabled veteran retains overall control[12].
Business Size Standards
Once ownership and control are confirmed, businesses must also meet the Small Business Administration's (SBA) size standards. These standards are based on the business's North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code, which categorizes industries[11].
Size standards depend on either the number of employees or annual revenue. For example:
Most manufacturing companies qualify as small businesses if they have 500 or fewer employees.
Most non-manufacturing businesses qualify if their average annual receipts are under $7.5 million[11].
When calculating size, businesses must include the revenue and employees of any affiliate companies[9]. This step is essential for federal contracting opportunities, which totaled $759 billion during fiscal year 2023[10].
Management and Daily Operations
Operational control is the third key requirement. Veterans must demonstrate full managerial authority over both long-term decisions and daily operations[12]. The qualifying veteran is expected to work full-time or provide proof that any outside employment does not interfere with their control.
A ruling by the Office of Hearings and Appeals emphasized that reduced working hours could suggest a loss of control unless proven otherwise[13].
While veterans don’t need to be experts in every technical aspect of their business, they must oversee specialists and maintain overall authority[12]. For businesses with complex ownership structures, veterans must also meet any supermajority voting requirements related to management and operations, regardless of the legal structure of the company[12].
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Getting certified as a veteran-owned business involves navigating three key platforms: SAM.gov, the SBA VetCert portal, and the VA VetBiz system. Each serves a unique purpose and requires specific documentation to establish your credentials.
Registering on SAM.gov
SAM.gov, short for the System for Award Management, is the central hub for tracking federal contracts, grants, and partnerships. If you’re planning to pursue federal contracting opportunities, registration here is a must. Through this process, you’ll receive essential identifiers like the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and the Member User Personal Identification Number (MPIN) - both critical for completing your veteran certification.
To register, create an account on SAM.gov and ensure your business is already registered with your state. During the process, you’ll be asked about your goals. If you’re not immediately seeking government contracts, select "other" and specify "get VOSB/SDVOSB certified" in the follow-up section. When prompted, choose "Federal Government" and enter "SBA" in the Federal Hierarchy field.
Registration is free and typically takes 10–12 business days to process. Once approved, your registration will remain active for one year and must be renewed annually. To avoid errors, consult the SAM.gov registration guide for step-by-step instructions.
Using the SBA VetCert Portal
After completing your SAM.gov registration, the next step is applying for certification through the SBA VetCert portal, which is accessible via the MySBA Certifications platform. This portal is now the go-to system for all veteran certification applications.
When setting up your account, use the same email address you used for SAM.gov and have your UEI, MPIN, and TIN ready. The application will ask for details about your business structure, ownership, financial records, tax returns, and proof of veteran status (like your DD Form 214). If you’re applying for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification, you’ll also need to include documentation of your disability.
Once submitted, SBA analysts will review your application, which can take up to 90 days. The VetCert portal also provides helpful tools, including eligibility checklists, pre-application guides, and a database of certified veteran-owned businesses. If you run into issues, you can reach out to the SBA support team by emailing [email protected] or calling 800‑862‑8088 (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET, excluding federal holidays).
Completing Verification via VA VetBiz
The final step is verifying your status through VA VetBiz, which is essential for accessing federal contracting opportunities set aside for veteran-owned businesses. Managed by the VA's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, this verification adds an extra layer of credibility through the Vets First Verification Program.
To get started, create a profile at https://www/vetbiz.va.gov/ and follow the seven-step verification process. You’ll need to complete and submit VA Form 0877 along with the required documentation through the VetBiz portal. This includes proof of veteran status and, if applicable, evidence of service-connected disability.
The Center for Verification and Evaluation (CVE) will review your application for accuracy and completeness. This process typically takes 90–120 days and may include a site visit. You can monitor your application status through the portal. If your application is denied, the feedback provided will help you address any issues before reapplying. An appeals process is also available if you believe the denial was incorrect.
For additional support, you can connect with a Verification Assistance Counselor in your area. They can guide you through the documentation process at no cost. This extra help can make a complex process a lot more manageable.
Required Documents for Certification
To complete your certification process, you’ll need to gather three key categories of documents. These documents confirm your eligibility and support the details you provided during registration.
Personal ID Documents
To verify your veteran status, you’ll need specific identification documents. The DD Form 214 is the primary document used for this purpose. It contains crucial information like your service dates and type of discharge, and you can request it from the National Archives [15][16].
If you don’t have a DD Form 214, there are other acceptable documents to prove veteran status, such as:
Honorable Discharge Certificate
NGB Form 22 (for National Guard members)
Reserve Separation Orders
Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Veteran Identification Card (VIC)
Additionally, many states offer veteran designations on driver's licenses or state IDs, which can also serve as proof of service [15][18]. For Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification, you’ll need to include a VA disability rating letter to confirm your service-connected disability [17].
Military spouses can use standard military documents, such as those for service members, veterans, or retirees, to establish their connection to military service. Surviving spouses may submit a Casualty Report (DD Form 1300) to verify their eligibility [15].
Business Documents
You’ll also need documentation that proves your business’s legal formation and operational history. These typically include:
Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization to confirm legal formation
Operating Agreements or Bylaws to outline governance
Tax returns for the last three years
Payroll records to demonstrate size and operational compliance [2]
Proof of Ownership and Control
To confirm that veterans own and control at least 51% of the business, you’ll need to provide ownership and control documentation [20].
Ownership proof can include:
Stock certificates
Membership or partnership agreements
Shareholder agreements and stock ledgers (for corporations)
Operating agreements and membership certificates (for LLCs)
For control verification, you’ll need documents that show veterans manage daily operations and make key business decisions. Examples include:
Organizational charts showing reporting structures
Job descriptions for key roles
Resumes of veteran owners highlighting relevant experience
Evidence of signatory authority on bank accounts and major contracts [19]
These documents collectively ensure that your application meets all the necessary requirements.
Using Your Certification for Business Growth
Certification opens doors to federal contracts, private partnerships, and funding opportunities specifically designed for veteran entrepreneurs.
Getting Federal Contracts
Holding VOSB or SDVOSB certification connects you to a massive federal marketplace. Federal agencies allocate about 3% of their contracts exclusively for SDVOSBs, and programs like Vets First Verification extend similar advantages to VOSBs [21][22].
To tap into these opportunities, make sure your certification is registered on SAM.gov. This allows contracting officers to easily identify your business as veteran-owned [22]. You might also want to pursue certification through the Department of Veterans Affairs, which can broaden your eligibility for VA-specific contracts [22].
But it’s not just about government deals - your certification can also make your business more appealing to private sector companies.
Building Private Sector Partnerships
A veteran-owned certification is a strong asset for forming partnerships in the private sector. Research shows that two-thirds of consumers prefer supporting veteran-owned businesses [22]. This growing demand aligns with corporate efforts to diversify their supplier base.
Many companies actively seek veteran-owned suppliers. For example, the Coalition for Veteran-Owned Business (CVOB) collaborates with groups like the Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University to support veteran entrepreneurs [23].
To build these connections, focus on networking. Look into companies that prioritize veteran inclusion, attend supplier diversity events, and establish relationships with procurement officers and diversity managers [24]. Certification through organizations like NaVOBA and NVBDC can also strengthen your credibility. Joining the CVOB is another way to discover networking opportunities [23].
Additionally, organizations such as the Institute for Veterans and Military Families and BunkerLabs offer free training programs tailored for veteran-owned businesses, helping you sharpen your skills and expand your network [23].
Beyond contracts and partnerships, specialized funding can be a game-changer for growing your business.
Finding Financial Resources
Once certified, you gain access to financial programs designed specifically for veteran-owned businesses. For example, the SBA’s 7(a) loan program may offer reduced fees for veterans, making it a more affordable financing option [27].
There are also grants tailored to veteran entrepreneurs. The Hiring Our Heroes Small Business Grant Program will award $10,000 grants to five veteran or military spouse-owned businesses in 2025. To qualify, your business must meet specific criteria, including being majority-owned by a veteran or military spouse, employing 3 to 20 people, demonstrating financial need, and being based in the U.S. Applications close on February 15, 2025 [25][26].
In Texas, female veteran business owners can apply for $5,000 grants through Texas Woman’s University. Applications are open from January 21 to February 21, 2025 [25].
"SBA offers support for veterans as they enter the world of business ownership. Look for funding programs, training, and federal contracting opportunities." – U.S. Small Business Administration [5]
Other options include exploring grants from organizations like the Second Service Foundation, Warrior Rising, and Hiring Our Heroes. Websites like Grants.gov and GrantWatch provide comprehensive listings of funding opportunities. For additional help, consider reaching out to the Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) [25].
Veteran Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs) are another valuable resource. They offer mentorship and assistance with business plan development [5]. Your certification also qualifies you for federal sole-source and set-aside contracts through the SBA’s VetCert program. Additionally, the VA’s Vets First program provides extra opportunities for certified VOSBs to compete for contracts [4].
Maintaining Certification and Staying Compliant
After obtaining your certification, the next critical step is keeping it active and ensuring compliance. This is essential for maintaining access to veteran-focused contracting opportunities. Staying on top of deadlines, updating documentation, and promptly reporting business changes can help you avoid losing contracts or facing the need for recertification.
Annual Recertification
Your SAM.gov registration must be renewed annually to keep your access to federal contracting opportunities intact [28]. For VOSB certification, it remains valid for up to three years, but you can reapply starting 120 days before your eligibility period ends [8]. Aim to renew 60–90 days before the expiration date to avoid any gaps in coverage [28].
During the renewal process, review and update your business information to ensure everything reflects your current operations. Outdated or inconsistent details can raise red flags, potentially delaying or jeopardizing your certification status [28].
Once your recertification is underway, make sure to report any significant business changes promptly.
Reporting Changes
If your business changes structure, ownership, or veteran status, you must notify the SBA to maintain your VOSB or SDVOSB certification [31]. In May 2023, the SBA introduced the Veterans Case Management System (VCMS) through its VetCert program. This online platform lets certified businesses report updates related to ownership, structure, or veteran status [31]. Reporting these changes is critical to keeping your certification valid [6].
For SDVOSB certification, there’s an additional requirement: if your top officer’s compensation falls below that of a non-qualifying veteran, you must inform the SBA within 30 days [6]. Additionally, ensure your SAM.gov profile stays updated and respond promptly to any SBA requests for clarification during the review process [29].
Staying proactive can also help you avoid common compliance pitfalls.
Avoiding Common Compliance Problems
Compliance issues often stem from poor record-keeping and incomplete documentation. Make sure all records related to veteran status, disability ratings (if applicable), ownership, and control are accurate and up-to-date [30]. Missing deadlines for reverification or SAM registration renewal can result in losing your certification [30].
To navigate the complexities of SDVOSB and VOSB regulations, consider consulting legal experts who specialize in these certifications. Their guidance can help ensure you remain compliant and avoid costly mistakes [30].
Conclusion: Success as a Certified Veteran-Owned Business
Achieving veteran-owned certification opens the door to a range of opportunities that can help your business thrive. With this status, you gain access to exclusive advantages in federal contracting, corporate partnerships, and consumer trust.
The federal government reserves 3% of its contract bids for certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs). The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) allocates at least 7% of its annual contracts to certified veteran-owned businesses. On top of that, about 15% of Fortune 1000 companies prioritize working with verified veteran-owned suppliers [1][32]. And here’s a compelling stat: two-thirds of consumers prefer buying from veteran-owned businesses [2].
You can use your certification as a marketing edge by prominently displaying it on your website and promotional materials [3]. Keeping an eye on federal and corporate contract listings can help you spot new opportunities. Networking with other veteran business owners can also provide valuable connections and insights [33].
For additional support, reach out to your local Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC). They offer resources like business plan workshops, mentorship programs, and training sessions [5]. Organizations such as Warrior Rising also provide ongoing education and business coaching tailored to veteran entrepreneurs [34]. Plus, 2025 brings multiple grant opportunities and local mentorship programs designed to support veteran business owners [35].
This certification is more than just a title - it’s a springboard for growth. By staying active in pursuing contract opportunities, meeting compliance requirements, and engaging with the veteran business community, you can position your business for long-term success. The tools and resources are ready for you; now’s the time to put them to work.
FAQs
What are the benefits of registering my business as veteran-owned beyond government contracts?
Registering your business as veteran-owned comes with a host of perks that extend far beyond federal contracts. It boosts your business's reputation and visibility, making it more appealing to customers, corporate partners, and investors who prioritize diversity and value the contributions of veterans.
This certification also unlocks access to veteran-focused resources, including specialized loans, grants, and mentorship programs designed to help you expand and solidify your business. On top of that, many states and local governments provide additional benefits, such as tax breaks and priority placement in procurement programs. Taking advantage of these opportunities can pave the way for new partnerships and growth avenues to support your business journey. :::
What documents do I need to certify my business as veteran-owned?
To have your business certified as veteran-owned, you'll need a few essential documents to prove both your military service and your ownership stake in the business. Here's what you'll typically need:
DD Form 214: This form verifies your discharge or release from active duty and serves as proof of your veteran status.
Business ownership records: Documents like articles of incorporation, operating agreements, or other legal paperwork showing that you own at least 51% of the business.
Financial or tax records: Sometimes, you may also need to provide business tax returns or financial statements to complete the process.
Double-check that all your paperwork is accurate and current to avoid any unnecessary delays. Earning this certification can unlock valuable resources and opportunities designed specifically for veteran entrepreneurs. :::
How do I keep my veteran-owned business certification active and compliant?
To keep your veteran-owned business certification valid and in good standing, make sure your business continues to meet the requirements. This includes maintaining at least 51% ownership and control by veterans or service-disabled veterans. If there are any changes to your ownership, management, or business structure, report them promptly to the certifying authority.
Keep your documentation current - this includes proof of veteran status and any required business licenses. Also, pay close attention to recertification deadlines, as most certifications need to be renewed every three years. Staying up-to-date on regulatory changes and attending relevant workshops or training sessions can help you remain compliant and fully benefit from veteran-focused resources and opportunities. :::