Contractors should apply for a specific bond with an agent or surety company of their choice. In addition to providing the required credit and financial information, the contractor must complete the following SBA forms:

• Form 912: Statement of Personal History (on first application and once every two calendar years thereafter)
• Form 994: Application for Surety Bond Guarantee Assistance
• Form 994F: Schedule of Uncompleted Work on Hand (required initially and then at least quarterly)

The surety company processes and underwrites the application in the same manner as any other contract bond application, then passes it on to SBA. Under the Prior Approval program, SBA determines an applicant's ability to complete the contract based on the information, documentation and underwriting rationale provided by the surety company. If the review establishes performance capacity, and all other aspects of the application are approved, an authorized SBA official signs a guarantee agreement and returns it to the surety company. If the review fails to establish performance capacity, the SBA seeks clarification from the surety underwriter. If performance capacity cannot be reasonably assured, the SBA rejects the application.

You can now apply online with an Electronic Application.

For More Information

For more information about SBA’s SBG Program, go to the Office of Surety Guarantees.