Acceptable Kiva Business Proofs

How do we verify your business?

Verifying your business is the most important step in our application process.

The easiest and fastest way we can verify your business is by comparing your Kiva loan application to one of the following official government documents:

  • Incorporation documents

  • Government registration (federal, state, county, or city)

  • Permits

  • Doing Business As, or Fictitious Business Name, or Assumed Business Name

  • Business tax returns*

  • Tax IDs/EINs

*Please note that, should you check the checkbox in the application about separate business/personal finances, you will be asked to submit either a business tax return or a business bank statement.

 The US Small Business Administration provides resources for both new and growing businesses, including registration and licensing advice. Read through the Business Guide or take the “Legal Requirements for Small Business” online course if you are unsure what documentation your business should have.

If you are unable to provide official government documentation of your business, three options exist to access a Kiva loan:

  • An approved Kiva staff member or partner verifies your business

  • A Certified Kiva Trustee endorses your loan

  • A bill addressed to the name of your business at your stated business address

***Please be advised that these alternative forms of business proof will result in a lower qualification amount ($1,000 - $3,000 loans).

 Have any questions about business proofs ?  

Reach out to us at borrowers@kiva.org and we’ll make sure a human gets in contact with you!