Frequently Asked Questions

Following is the display of frequently asked questions with corresponding answers.

1. How can vendor connect to ETRAN system?
The creation of lender (partner) CAFS user ID and password is needed to connect to ETRAN system. The same account can be used for web screens and API calls.
2. What system access do lenders need in order to submit loan applications in test?
CAFS Lenders account should request access to Enter/Edit your SBA Loan Applications role under the Electronic Lending - Origination (ETRAN) application for the Location Id.
3. Do production credentials work in the test environment?
No, TEST environment needs different credentials. Production credentials would not work in TEST automatically. We strongly recommend that these be different.
4. How long will it take to get production and test accounts created?
The typical time frame is 1-3 business days.
5.When registering in the system is partner and vendor the same thing?
No
6. Are there any regulatory policy constraints revolving loan officer accounts, authorization officiants?
No regulatory constraints, the credentials used are under the lender side.
7. Do validation warnings need to be cleared before submission?
Validation warnings can be ignored. They do not impact application submission.
8. What are common tricks, errors to look out for in terms of application format?
Here is the following is some general guidance:
  1. Fields that are not mandatory can be left blank
  2. Warnings messages can be ignored
  3. Error messages need to be resolved before submission
  4. Use the correct Location ID
  5. If using XML, we can also recommend verifying the XML against the XSD using online validators (e.g., https://www.freeformatter.com/xml-validator-xsd.html)
  6. Choose a processing method that requires the minimum number of required fields and documents
9. Are the application response errors clear? Is there a mapping code?
The ETRAN screen will inform users of any errors. In the Web Service method, the system will send the result out via XML. There are backend validations that take place where borrowers information is screened to ensure borrower is unique and does not have an application with another lender. Once borrower information is validated, Lender will receive a loan number confirming that the application has been submitted.
10. Are lenders able to check errors post submission?
Yes, after submission the ETRAN screen will inform users of any errors.
11. Where can lenders find code to fees?
Code to fees are located under ETRAN typescode types. The codes are also included in the XSD file.
12. How long does it take to obtain an SBA loan number after submitting the application?
SBA Loan number is generated instantaneously after the application backend validations are completed.
13. Is there an established mechanism to provision a system to system account on behalf of lender?
The SBA Web Services uses individual user credentials. SBA does not provide non-expiring system to system credentials to lenders.
14. Do Is there a messaging protocol to confirm if loan has been processed? And how long does it take to receive a loan number?
Loan number is generated after the loan application has been submitted, validated, and approved. Typically, the loan number is issued instantaneously. Business validation ensures borrower has not submitted another request a with different Lender.
15. Can we use Etran.wsdl end point??
No, Elend.wsdl replaces the end point. Etran.wsdl and its methods no longer supported.