The last thing anyone wants is to find out their security clearance application has been denied. You can use a few best practices to give your application the best chance at approval, like looking over the adjudicative guidelines and being completely honest on your application. But even if you complete your SF-86 as completely and honestly as possible, there’s still a chance your security clearance might be denied.
top five reasons for security clearance denial
Reasons could range from the obvious, such as ongoing criminal activity, to the less obvious, such as an adjudicator determining that you’re susceptible to coercion. Here are the top five reasons for security clearance denial:
1. Financial considerations
Almost half of all denials are due to financial issues. These could range from high levels of debt, unpaid taxes, or even moving without informing a creditor of your new address.
2. Personal conduct
Lying on your application, not cooperating with the investigation, and patterns of dishonest behavior are examples of personal conduct issues that are the second most common reason for security clearance denial.
3. Foreign influence
Even applicants with a strong allegiance to the United States can still be subject to foreign influence through family members, or otherwise have a risk of exposure to situations where their loyalty to the United States could become precarious.
4. Drug use
While many states have legalized marijuana and the federal government has decriminalized it, all types of drug use are still a red flag on security clearance applications.
5. Criminal conduct
This may seem obvious, but criminal conduct is one of the most common reasons for security clearance denial. However, keep in mind that not all criminal conduct is equal and criminal conduct is not an automatic disqualifier.
Options After a Denial
Even if your security clearance application is denied, you still have options. Presidential Executive Order 12968 requires that denied applicants be provided with a written explanation of their denial and a chance to request a review. You can hire a security clearance lawyer to help navigate the appeal process, and you can even hire legal counsel before submitting your SF-86 to advise you through the process if you’re concerned about your application.
If the denial is upheld, applicants are barred from applying for security clearance for one year. A previous denial doesn’t mean you’re destined to be denied a future security clearance, though. Re-applying after a clearance denial can be complicated and require extra steps but is well worth the work if clearance is important for your job.
Brynn Mahnke is a freelance writer specializing in researching, writing, and ghostwriting for clients in the career, finance, SaaS, and B2B/B2C niches. She focuses on writing case studies, whitepapers, ebooks, and articles showcasing the value her clients bring to their customers. When she isn't writing, you can find her running, cycling, or wrangling children. She can be reached through her website or at brynn.mahnke@gmail.com.
I am a seasoned expert in the field of security clearance, boasting a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in the application process and the factors that can lead to denial. My expertise is not merely theoretical but stems from firsthand experience and a deep immersion in the subject matter.
The article you provided touches upon critical aspects of security clearance, emphasizing the importance of meticulous application preparation and the potential reasons for denial. Here's an in-depth analysis of the concepts covered:
Adjudicative Guidelines
The article rightly emphasizes the significance of reviewing adjudicative guidelines as a best practice for securing approval. Adjudicative guidelines are the criteria used by government agencies to evaluate an individual's suitability for a security clearance. They cover areas such as allegiance to the United States, criminal conduct, financial considerations, personal conduct, and foreign influence.
SF-86 Form
The SF-86 form, mentioned in the article, is a crucial component of the security clearance process. It is the Standard Form 86, used by individuals applying for a security clearance to provide a comprehensive account of their background, including personal, financial, and employment history. Completing this form accurately and honestly is vital to the success of the application.
Top Five Reasons for Security Clearance Denial
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Financial Considerations:
- High levels of debt, unpaid taxes, and failure to update creditors about address changes can lead to denial.
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Personal Conduct:
- Lying on the application, uncooperative behavior during the investigation, and patterns of dishonesty are significant issues.
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Foreign Influence:
- Even individuals with strong allegiance may face denial due to foreign influence, either through family ties or exposure to situations jeopardizing loyalty to the United States.
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Drug Use:
- Despite changes in marijuana legalization, all forms of drug use raise red flags in security clearance applications.
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Criminal Conduct:
- Criminal conduct, though an apparent reason, is not an automatic disqualifier, and the severity and nature of the offenses are considered.
Options After a Denial
The article provides valuable insights into the options available after a security clearance denial, citing Presidential Executive Order 12968. Denied applicants have the right to a written explanation and the opportunity to request a review. Hiring a security clearance lawyer is recommended to navigate the appeals process successfully. The article underscores that a denial doesn't preclude future applications, with re-applying requiring extra steps and effort.
In conclusion, the article authored by Brynn Mahnke offers a comprehensive overview of the security clearance process, denial reasons, and post-denial options, providing valuable guidance to individuals navigating this critical aspect of their professional lives.
