Effective January 1, the VA certification application process will be transferred to the SBA.  Here is what you need to know.

1. Action Needed. Generally, SDVOSBs and VOSBs listed as verified in VIP will not need to take action for SBA to recognize their certification. An exception applies for SDVOSBs and VOSBs whose verification expires before the verification function transfers to SBA on January 1, 2023, and which seek to continue competing for VA set-aside or sole source contracts under the Veterans First program. These expiring firms must submit an application for reverification no later than October 24, 2022. Applicants seeking reverification and whose business ownership and control have not materially changed since their last verification may qualify for a simplified revivification.

2. Background. By law, VA’s current responsibility to verify SDVOSBs and VOSBs will transfer to SBA effective January 1, 2023. This date is referred to in the law as the “transfer date.” In addition, to compete for contracts as SDVOSBs in Federal agencies other than VA, SDVOSBs will need to apply for and obtain certification from SBA.

3. Effect of VA Verification. In assessing Veteran or Service-Disabled Veteran ownership and control of a small business, VA and SBA apply the same regulations. Moreover, protests and appeals of SDVOSB and VOSB status are considered and determined by the same decision-maker, the SBA Office of Hearings and Appeals. Firms holding VA verification as of January 1, 2023, will transition to SBA-certified firms and will be able to use that certified status in competing for contracts at VA as well as at other Federal agencies.

Period of Eligibility. SDVOSBs and VOSBs holding VA verification as of January 1, 2023, will retain the same period of eligibility as originally designated by VA. Generally, VA verification is valid for 3 years from the date of a firm’s verification letter.