Q: What is SBA Connect?

Answer: SBA Connect is an online interface allowing users to securely access multiple approved applications with appropriate roles and permissions using Single Sign-on capabilities.

Q: Why should we use SBA Connect?

Answer: See the previous answer. The SBA Connect application allows users to securely access various SBA resources through one authentication point.

Q: Who should use SBA Connect?

Answer: Currently, SBA Connect supports the following types of users:

·     SBA Users

·     SBIC Web Internal Users

·     SBIC Web External Users.

·     SBA Users (Administrators, Approvers, Executives)

Note: SBA Connect currently supports the SBIC Web application. With plans to add multiple applications to SBA Connect in the future.

Q: What is Single Sign-On?

Answer: Single Sign-On is a capability that allows users to login to one application and have access to multiple approved applications using the appropriate roles and permissions. Single Sign-On uses Role-based access control to determine the appropriate user management across multiple applications. This single authentication point increases efficiency and productivity.

Q: Where can I find SBA Connect?

Answer: Users can access the SBA Connect application by entering the URL, SBA connect, into a supported web browser.

Note: The application currently supports Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome. All other browsers are not supported browsers and, therefore, not recommended for use.

Q: If I am an SBA user, do I need to register with Login.gov to begin using SBA Connect?

Answer: SBA users should already have an existing Login.gov account.

Q: How do I set up an account with Login.gov?

Answer: User shall perform the following steps:

·     Navigate to the SBA Connect Login page at https://connect.sba.gov

·     Click on Login

·     The page will redirect to the Login.gov Sign In page

·     Click on the “Create an Account” link

·     Follow the step-by-step instructions to create a new Login.gov account

·     New Users need to select a secondary authentication method as part of the new account creation process

Q: How do I reset my Username/Password?

Answer: Users can reset their password by clicking on the link "Forgot Your Password" from the Login.gov Sign In page and following the step-by-step instructions.

Q: I lost my phone that I set up for secondary authentication. What should I do now?

Answer: In the event, a user has misplaced their mobile device or is not able to use the device for authentication, the user may select another authentication method, provided multiple authentication methods were set up with the login.gov account.

Example of Authentication methods: Government Employee ID (PIV/CAC card), Text Message, Automated Call, Security Key, Backup Codes, or Authentication Apps.

If a user is unable to access their account using the authentication methods previously set, deleting, login.gov account would be the next step and the only other option.

Note: There is not a way to undo an account delete, so please verify other authentication methods for eligibility and access.

Deleting the existing Login.gov account and creating a new one will allow users to use the same email address and set up new authentication methods. However, deleting the account will remove any agency applications linked to the account, and users will need to reestablish each connection.

When deleting the login.gov account, users will first receive an email confirmation. As an added security measure, a text message will be sent to the registered mobile number. Please refer to the email for further instructions to delete the login.gov account. Users will also receive another email with the link to continue deleting the account 24 hours after the initial confirmation email arrives.

Q: Do I need a secondary authentication method?

Answer: Yes, Login.gov requires two-factor authentication; however, users may set up the “remember browser” feature.

Note: To set up the “remember browser” feature, select “Remember this browser for 30 days” upon entering the security code.

Using the “remember browser” feature will allow users to sign in without using a secondary authentication method for 30 days. Every 30 days, users will be required to renew the "remember browser" feature by going through the standard two-factor authentication steps and again selecting "remember browser."

NOTE: If login.gov is used with multiple devices and browsers, the “remember browser” feature must set up on each device/browser.

Q: What options do I have for receiving the secondary code for authentication?

Answer: Government Employee ID (PIV/CAC card), Text Message, Automated Call, Security Key, Backup Codes, or Authentication Apps.

Q: What is an Authentication app?

Answer: Authentication apps are applications that are generally more secure against phishing and hacks but with less protection against theft. Authentication apps may be downloaded to a mobile device and generate secure, 6-digit codes which may be used to login to accounts or sites that require a high level of security.

Note: Authentication Apps can be used to generate security codes even if the device does not have an internet connection or mobile service.

Q: How do I set up Multi-Factor Authentication?

Answer: Multi-Factor Authentication methods are a requirement of Login.gov. Multi-Factor Authentication methods are created as part of creating a new Login.gov account and may be updated by accessing the “Your Account” menu/profile using Login.gov.

Q: I did not receive my secondary authentication code? What should I do?

Answer:  If the security code has not been received, Users may send a new security code by clicking "Get another code."  If the user is unable to access the security code using the method selected, the user may choose another authentication method.

Q: What are the Terms and Conditions?

Answer: The terms and conditions used by SBA Connect are:

1.        You are accessing a U.S. Government information system, which includes (1) this computer, (2) this computer network, (3) all computers connected to this network, and (4) all devices and storage media attached to this network or to a computer on this network. This information system is provided for U.S. Government-authorized use only.

2.        Unauthorized or improper use of this system may result in disciplinary action, as well as civil and criminal penalties.

3.        By using this information system, you understand and consent to the following:

§  You have no reasonable expectation of privacy regarding any communications or data transiting or stored on this information system. At any time, the government may, for any lawful government purpose, monitor, intercept, search, and seize any communication or data transiting or stored on this information system.

§  Any communications or data transiting or stored on this information system may be disclosed or used for any lawful government purpose.

§  Your consent is final and irrevocable. You may not rely on any statements or informal policies purporting to provide you with any expectation of privacy regarding communications on this system, whether oral or written, by your supervisor or any other official, except SBA's Chief Information Officer.

Note: A Terms and Conditions agreement is also known as a Terms of Service or Terms of Use agreement. SBA Connect Terms and Conditions are set forth by the U.S. Government for access/use of its information systems and must be agreed upon use of service or system.

Q: Do I have to accept the terms and conditions?

Answer: Yes, Terms and Conditions must be accepted to be redirected to the Login.gov Sign in Page and gain access to SBA Connect.