Lenders and borrowers have recently contacted WBD asking whether certain emails appearing to come from the U.S. Small Business Administration are legitimate. We reviewed two examples with SBA's Wisconsin District Office.
✅ Legitimate SBA Communication
SBA recently began sending emails from reply@outreach.sba.gov asking recipients to confirm their subscription preferences as SBA upgrades its email communication system. Confirming your information helps ensure you continue receiving updates on SBA programs, disaster assistance, training opportunities, and other resources. SBA's Wisconsin District Office confirmed this communication is legitimate.
⚠️ Potential Scam Alert
We have also seen emails claiming a business's SAM registration is expiring or inactive and requiring immediate action. SBA has confirmed at least one example reported to WBD was not part of SBA outreach efforts and should be treated as suspicious. Always verify unexpected requests before clicking links or providing information.
Best Practices
- Verify the sender before clicking links.
- Be cautious of messages creating urgency or requesting immediate action.
- When in doubt, contact your SBA representative directly or reach out to WBD for assistance.
Bottom Line: Not every unexpected SBA email is fraudulent, but not every SBA-looking email is legitimate. A quick verification can help protect your institution and borrowers.
Vicki Stone is the Vice President Servicing Manager with WBD. Contact her by email at vstone@wbd.org.
SBA Email Watch
✅ Safe: SBA subscription confirmation emails from reply@outreach.sba.gov related to SBA's communication system upgrade.
⚠️ Be Careful: Emails claiming SAM registration issues or expiration requiring immediate action may be fraudulent.
Tip: If an SBA email seems unusual, verify before clicking. WBD is always happy to help review questionable communications.
