Sample Reconsideration Letter for SBA

A reconsideration letter for the Small Business Administration (SBA) is a formal request to review a decision or denial made by the SBA regarding a business loan, grant, or any other financial assistance.

Writing a well-crafted reconsideration letter can help you present your case effectively and potentially have a decision reversed or reconsidered. This article will guide you through the process of writing a compelling reconsideration letter for the SBA.

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Step 1: Understand the Reason for Denial

Before you start writing your reconsideration letter, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the reason behind the SBA’s decision. Review any correspondence, documentation, or statements that accompanied the denial to gain a clear understanding of their concerns or objections. This knowledge will enable you to address those issues directly in your letter.

Step 2: Format and Structure

Begin your letter by using a professional business format. Include your contact information, the date, and the SBA’s address at the top. Use a formal salutation such as “Dear [Name/Title of SBA Representative].”

Step 3: Opening Paragraph

In the opening paragraph, clearly state the purpose of your letter. Mention the specific decision you are seeking reconsideration for and provide any relevant reference numbers or dates. Express your gratitude for the opportunity to present your case and state your intention to address the concerns that led to the denial.

Step 4: Explain the Situation

In the next section of your letter, provide a concise and factual explanation of the circumstances surrounding your application. Explain any mitigating factors or extenuating circumstances that may have influenced the initial decision. Be honest and transparent, providing relevant details without becoming overly emotional or defensive.

Step 5: Address Specific Concerns

Refer to the specific concerns or reasons for denial mentioned in the SBA’s communication. Address each point individually and provide a clear and detailed response to demonstrate how you have resolved or plan to resolve the issues raised. Support your claims with evidence, such as financial records, supporting documents, or testimonials, to strengthen your argument.

Step 6: Provide Additional Information

Include any additional information that might bolster your case. This could include updated financial statements, business plans, market research, or any other documentation that demonstrates your business’s viability and potential for success. Present this information in a clear and organized manner, making it easy for the reader to understand.

Step 7: Showcase Changes or Improvements

If you have made any changes or improvements since your initial application, highlight them in this section. Emphasize any steps taken to address the concerns raised by the SBA, such as undergoing additional training, implementing new policies, or seeking expert advice. Demonstrate your commitment to rectifying any previous shortcomings and show how your business is now better positioned for success.

Step 8: Express Gratitude and Closing

In the final paragraphs, express your gratitude for the SBA’s time and consideration. Reiterate your belief in the value of the financial assistance and how it will positively impact your business’s growth. Close the letter by requesting a reconsideration of the decision and expressing your hope for a favorable outcome.

Step 9: Proofread and Edit

Before sending your reconsideration letter, thoroughly proofread it for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Edit the content for clarity, conciseness, and coherence. Consider seeking feedback from a trusted colleague or professional to ensure your letter is polished and persuasive.

Step 10: Submit the Letter

Print your letter on professional letterhead or use a professional email format if submitting electronically. Sign the letter if sending a physical copy. Keep a copy for your records and send the reconsideration letter via certified mail or a secure electronic communication channel. Confirm receipt of the letter by the SBA and keep a record of the confirmation.

SBA Reconsideration Letter Sample

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Title]
Small Business Administration
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Request for Reconsideration – [Application/Loan/Grant] [Reference Number]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to respectfully request reconsideration of the decision regarding my [application/loan/grant] with reference number [Reference Number]. I appreciate the opportunity to present my case and address the concerns raised in the previous correspondence.

I understand that the SBA’s decision was based on [state the specific reason for denial as mentioned in the SBA’s communication]. I would like to provide further information and clarify certain points to demonstrate my commitment and eligibility for the [application/loan/grant].

[Explain the Situation]
Provide a clear and concise explanation of the circumstances surrounding your application, addressing any mitigating factors or extenuating circumstances that may have influenced the initial decision. Be transparent and factual while avoiding emotional or defensive language. This section should provide a brief overview of your situation, setting the stage for addressing the specific concerns raised by the SBA.

[Address Specific Concerns]
Reference the specific concerns mentioned in the SBA’s communication and address each point individually. Provide a detailed response, explaining how you have already resolved or plan to resolve the issues raised. Support your response with relevant evidence, such as financial records, supporting documents, or testimonials, to strengthen your argument and demonstrate your dedication to meeting the SBA’s requirements.

[Provide Additional Information]
Include any additional information that supports your case and showcases the viability and potential success of your business. This could include updated financial statements, business plans, market research, or any other documentation that enhances the credibility of your request. Present the information in a clear and organized manner, making it easy for the reader to understand and evaluate.

[Showcase Changes or Improvements]
Highlight any changes or improvements you have made since your initial application. Emphasize any steps taken to address the concerns raised by the SBA, such as training, policy revisions, or seeking professional advice. Clearly demonstrate your commitment to rectifying any previous shortcomings and illustrate how your business is now better positioned for success.

In conclusion, I am grateful for the SBA’s time and consideration thus far. I firmly believe that the [application/loan/grant] would significantly contribute to the growth and success of my business. I kindly request that the SBA reconsiders its decision and grants the [application/loan/grant] based on the information presented in this letter.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I would be grateful for the opportunity to provide any further information or documentation that may be required for the reconsideration process. I eagerly await a favorable outcome and the chance to demonstrate my dedication to the success of my business.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Title/Position]
[Your Business Name (if applicable)]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does a SBA reconsideration take?

Answer: The Small Business Administration (SBA) does not have a set timeframe for how long a reconsideration process will take.

The length of time can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the case and the workload of the SBA office handling the reconsideration.

If you are requesting a reconsideration, it’s a good idea to follow up with the SBA office handling your case to inquire about the status of your request. They may be able to give you a more specific timeframe for when you can expect a decision.

Q: What is the minimum credit score for SBA disaster loan?

Answer: The Small Business Administration (SBA) does not have a minimum credit score requirement for disaster loans. Instead, the SBA looks at the overall creditworthiness of the borrower when determining loan eligibility.

The SBA considers a number of factors when evaluating creditworthiness, including the borrower’s credit history, payment history on existing debts, and current credit score.

The SBA Disaster Loans are intended for small businesses that are unable to secure financing from other sources. So they are more lenient with the credit score requirements compared to traditional loans, but it’s not completely waived.

The SBA will review your credit report and credit score, but they also consider the circumstances of the disaster, the ability to repay the loan and other factors that may have affected the credit score.

It’s important to remember that even if your credit score is lower, you may still be eligible for an SBA disaster loan if you can demonstrate the ability to repay the loan and that the disaster has caused financial hardship for your business.

If your credit score is less than ideal, you can work on improving it by paying off outstanding debt, making sure that all bills are paid on time, and maintaining a healthy credit utilization ratio.

This will help to demonstrate your creditworthiness to the SBA and increase your chances of getting approved for a disaster loan.

Q: How do I get approved for EIDL reconsideration?

Answer: The Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and provides low-interest loans to small businesses and non-profit organizations that have been affected by a declared disaster. If your EIDL application has been denied, you may be able to request a reconsideration of the decision.

To be approved for EIDL reconsideration, you will need to provide additional information or documentation to the SBA that supports your eligibility for the loan.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when requesting a reconsideration:

1. Review the reason(s) for denial: The SBA will provide the reason(s) why your EIDL application was denied. Review these reasons and gather any additional information or documentation that may address these issues.

2. Write a reconsideration letter: In your letter, explain why you believe your application should be reconsidered, and include any additional information or documentation that supports your eligibility for the loan.

3. Submit your reconsideration request: Once you have prepared your letter and any additional documentation, submit your reconsideration request to the SBA office that processed your original application.

4. Follow-up: Keep track of your request, and follow-up with the SBA office to ensure that your reconsideration request was received, and when you can expect a decision.