If you get an opportunity for a position with a government or defense agency, you probably need to acquire a security clearance. This is a somewhat arduous process that requires a background check and maybe a special interview, depending on the level of the clearance. Obviously, approval is a must for you to begin working in that role.
With earning a clearance in mind, here are some of things you must consider during the process. Failure with any one of these items likely dooms your chances at this opportunity. So pay close attention to ensure your security clearance is accepted.
Having a Criminal Record
Not surprisingly, a criminal record is arguably the leading reason for denying a security clearance. Depending on the level of the clearance, letting one or two older misdemeanors pass is possible. However, committing serious crimes or having a dishonorable discharge from the military will undoubtedly lead to a denial.
Evidence of alcohol or drug abuse is another obvious reason to have a security clearance denied. Investigators look for issues that may identify abuse, like a DUI, public drunkenness, or a previous arrest. Once again, the level of the clearance influences whether or not it gets denied.
Poor Credit Rating and Other Financial Issues
Financial issues, like a bankruptcy or poor credit rating, also hurt the chances of a clearance approval. Serious debts are a definite security risk, as agencies feel that person is ripe for being bribed or blackmailed. A record of gambling is something else to avoid if you want your clearance to be approved.
Incorrectly completing forms when applying for a security clearance raises a red flag. Perhaps there are unexplained gaps in employment, misspellings, or other discrepancies compared to your public record? You need to treat a security clearance application with extreme care. Make sure to follow the instructions closely and proofread every form before submission. Of course, being honest is a must.
Disreputable Personal Affairs
Investigators probe into your personal life before approving any security clearance. They even analyze relationships with others, including relatives, business associates, foreign contacts, and more. For example, multiple divorces might raise a red flag. Keep this in mind if your clearance gets denied and you want to file an appeal.
Financial issues, like a bankruptcy or poor credit rating, also hurt the chances of a clearance approval. Serious debts are a definite security risk, as agencies feel that person is ripe for being bribed or blackmailed. A record of gambling is something else to avoid if you want your clearance to be approved.
What can disqualify you? You are not a U.S. citizen. You were dishonorably discharged from the military. You are currently involved in illegal drug use.
According to the Bond Amendment which became law in 2008, there are technically four disqualifying criteria: criminal conviction resulting in a prison sentence over 1 year; dishonorable discharge from the military, criminal incompetence; or addiction to a controlled substance.
Financial problems: A security clearance may be denied because of an applicant's poor finances. Recent bankruptcy, high debt levels, bad credit or other financial issues could lead to a denial.
Regular or recent use of illegal substances, especially if it involves drugs categorised as controlled substances, is a red flag for security clearances. Drug use, even if it is in the past, can raise concerns about an individual's judgement, reliability, and susceptibility to coercion.
Statistical Data Overview. Between 2015 and 2020, about 2-5% of security clearance applications faced denial each year. According to the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA), financial issues caused 29% of denials in 2020, while personal conduct and criminal background contributed 18%.
If not back 10 years, it will slow down the processing time of your background investigation. The SF-86 form requests information back 7 years for employment and residence; however, to comply with the investigative standards, 10 years is required.
Just under 10% of applicants are denied by the National Security Agency. Just under 7% are denied by the CIA and just over 7% are rejected by the National Reconnaissance Office. Every candidate is evaluated carefully during the security clearance application process.
For the majority of government employees, acquiring and maintaining a security clearance is a must. As a result, it is normal for many government employees to experience anxiety about their clearance, because if it is revoked or denied, they would most certainly lose their jobs.
During the background and security clearance investigation, investigators will review delinquency in paying debts, tax obligations, certain criminal offenses and the illegal use or possession of drugs.
As with credit scores, there is no set amount of debt that can disqualify you from being granted a security clearance. None of the major branches of the military looks only at how much you owe in making a decision on your candidacy. The reviewer of your case tries to put that amount in context.
While not often charged, lying on security clearance forms can be considered a criminal offense. In many of these cases, just speaking with a lawyer knowledgeable in security clearances can help the person decide whether to disclose an issue or discontinue the clearance process if there is potential criminal liability.
Any applicant may appeal a clearance denial or revocation to the federal agency's three-member Personnel Security Appeals Board (PSAB). PSAB decisions are made by a majority vote.
Government contractors and federal employees can file a formal appeal for a denied security clearance application. You must request a hearing before an administrative judge or the appeals board if you're a federal employee. These parties will listen to your arguments and evaluate your reasoning for the appeal.
Most government agencies allow an individual who has been denied a clearance or had their clearance revoked to reapply for a security clearance after 12 months from the date of the final decision. Some agencies require a wait of 24 months and others of 36 months. The most common length of time is 12 months.
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