 |
 |
 |
|
Last year I was offered a job contingent on getting a clearance. I then received a possible adverse action saying unfavorable attached to my credit report. I never heard back from the company at all. At the time I did have quite a bit of past debt incurred after I was transferred and had a home that would not sell. I have paid and settled all my past debt except for 1 that is about $5000 that I am still working towards paying off. How would these past charged off/paid and settled debts affect my ability to obtain a clearance? Thanks for any info. |
|
 |
 |
 |
MC (Alabama) on February 8, 2012 at 5:22pm
|
|
|
|
In 2004 and I bought a house in DE. In2007 I had a sunroom added on to my house, which I never should have been approved for the home improvement loan because it brought the property value to over $20,000 more than it was worth, but somehow the loan was approved.
I am in the military and got orders to PCS in 2008 so when trying to sell the house this became an issue. We worked with our realtor, the buyers attorney and event he banks attorney to try to remove the lien and make it a note and we would continue making payments. We even tried to short sell but the bank holding the lien wouldn't work with us unltimately causing the house to go into foreclosure.
The house has since gone into foreclosure and the 2nd mortgage (around $24k and the lien (around $50k) were both written off and identified on my credit report. The loan for $24k reflects a 0 balance on my credit report, however the loan for $50k reflects that amount and that was the only thing that raised concern.
The $50K loan has raised eyebrows during my TS reinvestigation (3yrs later) and my clearance has been temporarly suspended. I have been give 60 days to submit my appeal.
The statue of limitations is now up on both of these loans, so should I claim bankruptcy to clear these?
Will they accept my appeal if I stress the circumstances behind the debt and the fact that the loan is past the SOL and I can no longer be sued for it or will they throw it out as I am not making an effort to pay it off?
I have had no delequent debts since this and in July 11, I was approved for a new car loan.
If I have to, I will file chapter 13, but I wasn't sure how that works with debts that are past the SOL.
Thanks in advanced |
|
|
|
|
military member (AZ) on February 7, 2012 at 8:52pm
|
|
|
|
I recently received a job offer contingent on a secret clearance.
I am really stressing over whether or not I will be granted the necessary clearance for the reasons below.
I have a discharged chapter 7 BK in 06/2010 due to loss of income. I went from making approx 80k/yr to 40k/yr. I also had a tax lien for state taxes of 2009 that was satisfied 03/2010, that was a result of no funds due to the loss of income.
My credit history since then has been good. I have 1 credit card that I pay satisfactorily and recently purchased a vehicle. My history before the BK clearly shows that my problems began following the loss of income.
What are my chances of being granted a secret clearance? I am sure that an interim clearance is out of the question even with mitigating information included on the questionnaire?
And finally, one question, do I list the accounts included in the bankruptcy in section 26 as accounts within the last 7 years that were greater than 120 days past due?
Thanks in advance!! |
|
|
|
|
DawgFan (Mississippi) on February 4, 2012 at 7:55pm
|
|
|
|
What a great issue to address!!! The housing market is killing a lot of servicemembers now - especially those who don't qualify for the PCS program that they just cut.
My husband is graduating medical school in June, his Navy residency program is in Virginia. We won't be able to afford paying for housing in VA and our AZ mortgage (renting isn't an option), and cannot sell since we owe more than four-times what our home is worth. We never cashed out or used the property as an investment. We have excellent credit and zero debt otherwise. We may be able to qualify for the HUD preforeclosure short sale program, but will have to be delinquent at least 31 days in order to do so. We may not have any other options, but I was curious as to the potential career implications my husband faces in the Navy due to (1) delinquency and (2) short sale. And does how many days delinquent matter? I just want to be informed. He is thinking about Flight Surgery next year and I'm pretty sure there's Clearance paperwork involved for that. Thanks! |
|
|
|
|
HousingVictim (AZ) on February 2, 2012 at 1:59pm
|
|
|
|
I'm up for my reinvestigation. I filed for chapter 13 last year and included all of my debt. I have not missed a payment since filing. In fact the payments are coming directly from payroll so there is no chance of me being late. My question is for the purpose of completing my eqip, are my bills still considered "delinquent" even though they are included in my Chapt 13. I think the question asks if you are currently or have ever been 120 days past due. I have been 120 days past due hence my chapter 13 filing, but I am current on my 1st mortgage and car payment that are both being paid outside of my chapter 13 plan. My second mtg is being stripped due to my home being upside down. |
|
|
|
|
Curious in VA (Virginia) on January 31, 2012 at 2:19pm
|
|
|
|
I was unemployed for almost 3 years due to being laid off. I just got a job. While laid off I have so limited income that I was forced to get social services help. I couldnt pay all my bills during that time, will this affect me from keeping this job even if I have the intent to pay it off now that I have a job. Can I explain this to them? Im a disabled vet and this was the only job I got offered in this time |
|
|
|
|
EUR (Washington DC) on January 31, 2012 at 10:02am
|
|
|
|
I am currently waiting to hear back for a security clearance I applied for I just graduated (April 2011) and have student loan debt which I have not defaulted on. My family was financially incapable to take of my debt and for the last year my credit cards have been seriously behind (120 days on one only ) The other ones I have payment plans for and am current I have a total of 4,400 or less now since I've been paying on it I want to know what are my chances at getting my interim secret clearance? I also have not had any drug/psychological,or traffic violations. |
|
|
|
|
College Student (NewYork) on January 30, 2012 at 6:51pm
|
|
|
|
Curious (San Diego ):
You’ll be given a chance to explain during an interview with an investigator that part of the background investigation. If you explanation isn’t good enough, you’ll be given the chance to explain in writing when you are issued a Letter of Intent to deny the clearance. Obviously, if you at least start to fix your problems before these two events, you will have a better chance of getting a clearance. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 25, 2012 at 9:39pm
|
|
|
|
Stangdude (Bragg, NC):
Go to Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS). If your situation is beyond repair, they will tell you so and direct you to a bankruptcy attorney. If they can help you get your finances under control, they will. It’s 10 times better to resolve your problems through a credit counseling service than to go through a bankruptcy. If you use a credit counseling service and don’t get behind in your debt payments, you don’t have to report it to your security officer. And it may be a few years before you have to list it on an SF86. Don’t go to some “credit repair” agency that tells you that they’ll negotiate settlement with your creditor where you will only pay 50% of what you owe. They will tell you that you have to stop paying your bills for several months to before the negotiated settlement can be made. As soon as you become delinquent on your debts, you will have to report it to your security officer and it will definitely have an immediate and adverse impact on your clearance. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 25, 2012 at 9:34pm
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
I just received my letter of intent due to credit. Now my bad credit is from lose of employment and divorce. Also been in this situation for over a year. Just started back working two weeks ago. I am trying to find out if there is someone that can help me with my response? |
|
|
|
|
Need help badly (springfield, va) on January 24, 2012 at 6:44pm
|
|
|
|
Holy Crap.. I have a Secret Clearance and am going to really consider bankruptcy for my wife and myself. My job does require that I keep my clearance, it is a Military related job so I cannot lose my clearance. Will I lose my clearance if I file for bankruptcy, I am not behind on anything and just wish to prevent from being late on anything it has gotten to the point where I cannot stay on time with anything. What can I do? Please help.. |
|
|
|
|
Stangdude (Bragg, NC) on January 22, 2012 at 7:19pm
|
|
|
|
before they deny your clearence does your SO give you a chance to fix it? Like to pay off a bill? Or explain? |
|
|
|
|
Curious (San Diego ) on January 20, 2012 at 2:39pm
|
|
|
|
My husband currently has a gov't contractor job, and has to fill out a financial disclosure form by May. They want to know of any debts their spouse has. I have delinquint debts from when we were married that I got behind on after I stopped working when I had our daughter a couple year's ago. I also got behind on my student loans. All of the debt is in my maiden name from before we were married. Will this hurt my husband's job or clearance in any way? I'm so freaked out. I have been looking for a job to start paying back on this stuff, but no such luck yet. |
|
|
|
|
Kate (Maryland) on January 16, 2012 at 7:58pm
|
|
|
|
My husband and I filed Bankruptcy - Chapter 7 and it was discharged in 09/2011. My husband's health lead to unemployment for him and more health issues for him as well. I made some loans to family after my father's death in 2010 and some poor financial choices myself, credit card debt after my father died. Prior to that I have very good to excellent credit. We had only one choice and filed before going to collection or serious deliquency. We would have lost everything if my salary (sole bread earner) were garnished. A great federal job has come along and now I am thinking of backing-out because it requires a background check and clearance. Other than financial I have no issues. Do I have a chance or should I just stop now?
Thank you for reading. |
|
|
|
|
Sweet-T (WA State) on January 14, 2012 at 8:25pm
|
|
|
|
just wondering (honolulu, HI):
Yes, if his failure to pay child support as required, becomes known. If your divorce occurred after his last investigation, you will be interviewed as part of his periodic reinvestigation. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 12, 2012 at 12:43am
|
|
|
|
Bill (New York):
I don’t know what form you filled out, but it was not for a security clearance. Even the SF85 for a Common Access Card (CAC) requires information about residences, employments, education, references, military service and illegal drug use. The SF86 for security clearances has a long list of questions regarding financial matters. The SF85P for Public Trust positions asks about bankruptcies, tax liens, and legal judgments. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 12, 2012 at 12:36am
|
|
|
|
TG (VA):
It's probably a good idea to wait at least year after the bankruptcy discharge to apply for job that requires a clearance. One year of paying your financial obligations on time and living within your means will give the adjudicator something to consider when trying to determine whether your financial problem might recur. It's going to be tough to get an employer to sponsor you for a clearance with a clearance revocation on record. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 12, 2012 at 12:22am
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
Thanks for the info. So the age of my bankruptcy shuld determine how long I should wait to reapply? |
|
|
|
|
TG (VA) on January 9, 2012 at 9:58am
|
|
|
|
Im up for my periodic review for a possible new job after being out of the military for a few years, and have collected unemploymet in the past few years. Do the investigators collect detailed information about the unemployment insurance collected? |
|
|
|
|
SS (DG) on January 8, 2012 at 12:36am
|
|
|
|
In the last 5 years, my credit has been trashed (economical down turn) and I have some tax liens. Although some of them have been taken care of and show as disposed, there still exists some more.
I just got a job going overseas with a military contractor. The form was for a secret clearance, but it didn't ask for any of my debts. Just a general questionaire (ss#, dob, felonies (no)). The contracting company is saying 7 days before I get the clearance. I have a feeling this is most likely going to be interim. My concern is once I get deployed, I might get my clearance revoked at the final stages because of finances.
My question is: If I got the interim clearance and I get deployed, down the line when they get to the final clearance, will they "work" with me before revoking any clearances? Such as will they let me work with credit counseling and/or IRS to show good faith and keep my clearance? I'd hate to get deployed and then get revoked and have to come right back.
Thanks a lot. |
|
|
|
|
Bill (New York) on January 5, 2012 at 11:54am
|
|
|
|
My husband works as a contractor for a staffing agency. His position is located at Andrews AFB. He has a security clearance and works as a clinician in the ortho clinic. He also is a NJ National Guard medical command officer. Not only has he committed adultery and lied on his application to get into the guard, but he has allowed our home to go into foreclosure. His reason for this is "because I lost my job." Although there is no sale date yet, a short sale may not happen in time. The bank wants 67,000 dollars from us. He was just audited on his taxes for 2009 with an amount due of approximately 20,000. His 2010 has not been filed yet and we re upon 2011. We have always filed married filing separately. Am I responsible for the tax debt? How likely is his security clearance to be renewed? Should I report this to his commander? Will a short sale, if successful, be a detriment to his military career, his firearms permit, and his government contractor job? I'd like to know if I could contact you via e-mail. Thanks in advance for your time. |
|
|
|
|
Officer's wife (New Jersey) on January 5, 2012 at 1:47am
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
I am a college student graduating this May with hopes of pursuing the field of linguistics in either the air force, army, or navy. By the end of college, I will have accrued between 17000-19000 in student loan debt, which I will begin paying after college. I am in a bad car situation (transportation wise, not money-wise as it is paid off) and I am seriously considering using some of my remaining loan amount from this semester of college (around 3000-4000) to put a down payment on a car. However, before I make that purchase, I will be taking care of around 400-500 dollars of delinquent medical bills (some have been in collections for over a year, but I have been making payments on them fairly often and have solved several other debts that were either in collections or getting ready to be in collections up to this point). All delinquent debts except for one were for medical reasons (my family has not been able to help entirely with the situation) and the only exception was one school bill that was unpaid for 6 months to a year, but this debt was maybe 150 dollars at the most and has been corrected.
Assuming I do take out a car loan, and am in a position to make monthly payments on time every time, is there any chance this will have a positive effect on my financial review for a security clearance (TS/SCI)? Or will the simple fact that another 10-15k of debt added to my student loans cause worry to the organization reviewing my case? Considering that there are other cases I've read about on this website where people have filed for bankruptcy or foreclosed on their houses, I do not consider an aggregate of 29-37k to be too much cause for concern. Additionally, I plan to use a portion (not all) of any enlistment bonus toward paying the car off. I am single with no financial obligations aside from the student loan, mobile phone, and potentially the car loan and expenses associated with it.
Please note that I also have other background issues that I am concerned about. I am turning 23 next month, but from the ages of 18 to just after turning 20, I experimented with drugs (cocaine, lortabs, and xanax once each, extasy 4-5 times, and marijuana perhaps 10-15 times). I have been clean ever since, except for one occasion where I took a single drag of a joint last october or november. I regretted that immediately and have no intent to engage in those activities again, especially with this job as motivation. I've heard that 2 years must have passed since last drug activity, and if all goes to plan, I will arrive in basic shortly after the two year anniversary of that very very minor relapse anyway. I have never been arrested for anything whatsoever, though my friend was pulled over after we had been smoking when I was 19 and no arrests were made.
I realize that either one of these issues by itself I still have a decent/good chance at attaining a clearance with complete honesty, but will the two issues compound eachother? Given the factors above, should I stay away from a car purchase? Obviously I am not certain about where I stand here. I would like your opinion before I proceed because I do not want to make a choice that would inhibit me from getting into the field I feel I'm cut out for. Thank you for your insight. |
|
|
|
|
college student on January 3, 2012 at 7:25pm
|
|
|
|
My ex husband is in the Navy and pays some of his child support every month, but always has a balance at the end of the month that he does not pay. He has been doing it for over a year now and says that he will pay it current when tax time rolls around. He said this last year and it did not happen, again he paid some of it but not all of it. I was wondering if this could affect his TSSCI clearance when it comes due to renew it? |
|
|
|
|
just wondering (honolulu, HI) on January 3, 2012 at 1:48am
|
|
|
|
William,
Thanks for the feedback. Since I have posted this, the city came back and said we over paid the tax amount to correct. It is now only $1400 plus $400 in tax and penalty. It has still been paid in full.
1) Is she still at fault even though the employer did not withhold?
2) What happens when she reports it to security officer?
3) How do they investigate during clearance investigation?
Sorry for the questions, this has me nervous. Thanks. |
|
|
|
|
MLB Cards (NOVA) on January 2, 2012 at 8:41am
|
|
|
|
MLB Cards (Nova):
I recommend the matter be reported to her security officer in writing as soon as possible. An error of this type that has been corrected, should not result in any adverse clearance action, provided she fully explains why it happened, when/how she discovered the error, and when/how she corrected the error.
The question on the SF86 asks about “. . . Federal, state, or other taxes . . . .” The Adjudicative Guidelines uses the words, “failure to file annual Federal, state, or local income tax returns as required . . . .” Clearly this is a reportable matter.
On the SF86 answer “yes” to question 26.3 and provide all the information requested. Use the “Optional Comments” field at section 26 on e-QIP to provide all the information she included in her report to her security officer. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 1, 2012 at 6:14pm
|
|
|
|
TG (VA):
The only time restriction to reapplying for a clearance after a denial/revocation, is one year from the date of the denial/revocation. It makes no difference whether you reapply for a Secret or a Top Secret clearance, since both are based on the same eligibility criteria (only the investigations are different). |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 1, 2012 at 5:51pm
|
|
|
|
I recently lost my job. My wife wants to join the army as a corp nurse. It will require her to get a security clearance since she will enlist as an officer. However we have had to file for bankruptcy do to our economic situation. What are her chances to get her clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Von Nelson (Orlando) on December 29, 2011 at 6:37pm
|
|
|
|
Hello Mr. Henderson,
My wife currently holds a TS. She was living in another city in 2008 and was there for about 14 months. We then moved to NOVA. She could possibly be up for getting a TS/SCI soon. We have recently realized that during our time in previous city, her employer did not withhold a city wage tax for 2008. We self filed our taxes that year. It came to light as we were starting to prepare taxes for 2012 filing. I noticed the difference in the W2's. We have recently sent everything to the city to correct this matter as well as payment in full.
Does she need to report this to her security officer? Also, how would she handle on a SF86? Does it fall under failure to pay or file taxes reminding you that it is a local tax, not state or federal. Total amount paid was $4600 after interest and penalty. Will this keep her from getting a TS/SCI?
Thanks and I look forward to your feedback. |
|
|
|
|
MLB Cards (Nova) on December 28, 2011 at 7:43pm
|
|
|
|
I held a secret clearance up until January 2008. Due to a job change I was required to submit for my TS. Due to financial issues my TS was denied and my secret was revoked. I tried to repair my credit on my own, but kept running into a brick wall. Finally in February of 2011 I decided to file for bankruptcy. My bakruptcy was discharged in June of 2011 and things are finally looking up. How long do I have to wait to reapply for a TS clearance? Would I have a better change just applying for a Secret first? |
|
|
|
|
TG (VA) on December 28, 2011 at 9:16am
|
|
|
|
I’m hoping someone can answer a couple of questions for me. My husband just got a job with a major Fortune 50 company that will require him to have a secret level security clearance. I’m worried about the financial consideration part because they are allowing him to start working until the decision comes back. We have no idea what will happen if it is denied.
Here’s what shows up on my hubby’s credit report.
1. In 2009 our home was foreclosed on after a loan modification company failed to submit our paperwork to our mortgage company. We talked to 5 different attorneys about filing a Ch. 13 BK to stop it, but every one of them said to let the house go. We got behind due to rising gas prices, medical costs, etc, and just couldn’t get back on track. We live in AZ, which is a non-deficiency state so we’re not required to pay the balance.
2. We “bought” a vacation club timeshare that was also foreclosed upon during this time. We stopped paying on just about everything to try and keep our home.
3. A credit card that was charged off in 2009 or early ’10 showing a balance of $1400. We disputed this and now it’s showing we owe $1700 as of this month (Dec. ’11). I emailed our attorney about this since legally they can’t add to the amount after it’s been charged off.
4. Two medical bills from my husband’s surgery in early 2010. One is around $750 and the other is $100. We can pay these off.
5. Two current auto loans totaling around $40,000.
6. One auto loan that was just closed. We traded in the vehicle for a new one. It’s showing the past 3 months as 30 days late.
What’s NOT on the report is we owe the IRS around $1900 from last year’s taxes. I just got the PIN number from the IRS to set up a payment plan online which I plan on doing. Does this show a “good faith” effort to pay this back?
Also, we did not file 2009 taxes because we owed money and couldn’t afford to pay it. I’m assuming we should file these and also set up a plan to pay this as well? It’s around $800.
Altogether, we don’t have THAT much outstanding debt, but a couple are recent. We’ve had a lot of circumstances surrounding the delinquencies that were out of our control, so if we just explain this we should be ok right? The new job requires relocation so as a family, it concerns me that he will be denied and we’ll be in a world of hurt. |
|
|
|
|
Worried (Arizona) on December 22, 2011 at 11:34am
|
|
|
|
I'm a recent AT-CTI graduate and just realized that credit may be an issue. Over the past three years due to unemployment I've been paying off debt accrued to make ends meet. Almost all of it is paid off except for one nightmare of a mess handed to me by a previous employer. They got away with not paying the lease on the housing that was provided and unfortunately my name along with 3 other employees are the only ones responsible for it. I now have a $4,000 judgement against me in CO. I haven't paid a dime on it because the company ripped us off and got away with it. Now I'm afraid this is going to keep me from getting the clearance for air traffic control. Please shed some light on this if you have any insights or suggestions. Thank you very much. |
|
|
|
|
widowmaker (Colorado) on December 21, 2011 at 4:40am
|
|
|
|
Rob in PA (VA):
It appears that some of your problems were somewhat beyond your control and I assume that your efforts to repay your debts spanned a few years. Under the circumstances I think you have a reasonable chance of retaining your clearance, but expect your reinvestigation to take longer than average. You may have to go through a couple of extra steps in the clearance process that most people don’t have to go through. If you receive a Written Interrogatory from DOHA, I recommend you seek professional help from a personnel security consultant. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 18, 2011 at 10:16pm
|
|
|
|
I have had a dod secret clearance for 10 year and am up for a periodic reinvestigation. In 2007 I had an ARM come due and about that time the housing market was starting to take a dive. It took me several months to get refinanced and my rate, and monthly payment kept going up due to the arm. It was around this same time, my wife had 2 surgeries and my medical insurance at the time was not very good. To add to all of this I had 2 cars blow engines, a furnace in my house go thru catastrophic failure and had to be replaced for winter. I let a couple of credit cards go to collections and was late on my automobile and mortgage payments. I have not had an active credit card in years and have slowly being paying off cards and medical bills. I have 1 card left in collections for 5300 and about 5 medical bills for about 900 in collections. I have the card on a payment plan and have it scheduled to take the last lump sum payment out on march 1st 2012. I hope to pay off the 900 in medical in 2 weeks. I will then only have a single car payment and a mortgage as debt. I have been up to date on my mortgage since the refincance, and up to date on my automobile payments as well. I am married with a 4 children and am the sole provider of income for my family. I was working a 2nd job, but I have had back surgery and was in an automobile accident last Christmas that has preventing me from working outside of my primary job for some time. I have no police record, other than some traffic fines. I did have a lean on my property for 500 dollars over a dispute with the local oil company in 2005, and when the courts sided with them, I paid right away. Can you tell me if this looks bleak, in your opinion, for me to maintain my clearance? If I lose this clearance, I will lose my job. Thank you in advance for your time. |
|
|
|
|
Rob in PA (VA) on December 15, 2011 at 9:30pm
|
|
|
|
Ricky (Oklahoma City):
The adjudicative criteria for a Secret clearance are exactly the same as for a Top Secret clearance. There is no reason related to “Financial Consideration” that should prevent you from receiving a TS clearance, unless you have had some financial problems since receiving your Secret clearance. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 8, 2011 at 9:31pm
|
|
|
|
I wonder how deep they will investigate person's personality and private life including financial and childhood to adulthood? Will it affect person's life to answer the investigator during polygraph for personality questions? Like porn, drugs, or teenhood problems? I do not know much about investigations for obtaining top secret clearence. I am college student with a criminology major however my fiancée and I are very young couples. Is it necessary to stop and close the account on the Internet for any connection like porn movies or something? Do I need to be honest with the investigator about everything before receiving the type of clearence? I had an intermin clearence when I was student at an air force base for summer season and worked with a security force unit.
I'd appreciate any suggestion and I appreciate your time. |
|
|
|
|
Deafcollege25 (Florida) on December 8, 2011 at 8:43am
|
|
|
|
I'm a current DoD contractor. Back in 2002 I had a vehicle repo and in 2003 I filed for bankruptcy, all due to being laid off from a construction job in early 2002. Snowball effect, really.
BK was dismissed in 2004 and I've had stable and improving credit ever since. In 2007 or 2008 I obtained a secret clearance. This morning I was contacted about a job that requires me to have a TS. My credit score is above average (per recent statistics), but since TS is more thorough than S, I'm worried I might not obtain a TS clearance, including interim.
Wanting some input from those in the know, please. |
|
|
|
|
Ricky (Oklahoma City) on December 5, 2011 at 10:27am
|
|
|
|
Hurt Skins Fan (Washington DC):
You were obviously declined an interim clearance because of your financial problems. You do not have to list an interim clearance declination on a security clearance application form; it is not a clearance denial.
Any delinquent debt can result in the declination of an interim clearance.
The $3,500 threshold in the article refers to automatic case expansion. Cases can be expanded for less than $3,500 of delinquent debt, if the adjudicative facility wants the case expanded.
You don’t need to list or explain minor traffic violations that did not result in a fine of over $300. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 24, 2011 at 12:32am
|
|
|
|
winnie (OKC):
Sounds more like a federal employment suitability determination than a security clearance. If the letter says that the matter can be resolved favorably by paying off the debt, then it should be okay. It doesn’t matter where she gets the money from to pay the debt, as long as she doesn’t’ commit a crime to get it. They could ask where she got the money, but getting a personal loan from a sister is perfectly acceptable. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 24, 2011 at 12:19am
|
|
|
|
Jay84 (DC):
You should be okay. Since you’re paying the IRS, it should not be considered a current delinquency and therefore would not have to be listed on the SF85P. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 24, 2011 at 12:11am
|
|
|
|
Dal (Virginia):
It doesn’t appear that your past credit problems will result in a clearance denial, but your clearance may take a little longer than the average case and you may have to explain everything to an investigator. Just be truthful in your answers, have documents ready to back up what you say, and be able to show that you are in better control of your financial situation now. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 23, 2011 at 11:56pm
|
|
|
|
Dave:
Can back child support stop you from your clearances? Yes it can. Will it? Maybe. Depends on a lot of factors not explained in your question, like how long were you unemployed? |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 23, 2011 at 11:48pm
|
|
|
|
William,
I am in the process of completing a Public Trust position by way of SF-85P. I had a tax lien from 2007 when I was leaving college that was paid off and listed that on the paperwork. I also provided documentation that I had completed this. The larger issue was that I entered a payment plan for past IRS tax debt (roughly $1,100) at the beginning of November. There's $500 remaining on the debt and I plan to pay it off this week. I did not list this payment plan on the SF-85P because it's very confusing as to where that would be applicable. The security folks have requested all of my IRS Account Tax Transcripts which I now have with the remaining debt from 2008 on the transcript and the paperwork for the IRS payment plan. Since I am making a good faith effort to repay the debt and it will be repaid before I take the position, will this affect my ability to be granted the position? I am worried that since I left this off the SF-85P that I will be viewed as withholding information and thus, disqualified. Even though that wasn't my intention. Thanks for your help. |
|
|
|
|
Jay84 (DC) on November 20, 2011 at 4:13pm
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
I have a question about Financial Consideration. My friend, she just got a job from federal government (air force base, Department of Defense). But she has a financial problem. She owed a $15,000 hospital bill and it was transfered to collection, she got a bad credit 2 years from now. Today, she got an interview from Security Clearance about her financial problem. They gave her a denial letter to ask her in 30 days to solve this problem. She was going to ask her sister to let her lend money to make a zero balance payment. My question is, if she submits a zero balance statement to Security Clearance Officer, will she be okay and can keep that job? Or do they still need her to explain why and where she got that money come from to make a full payment? |
|
|
|
|
winnie (OKC) on November 18, 2011 at 10:48am
|
|
|
|
Mr Henderson,
I was previously denied an interim secret clearance in 2009 and I'm not sure why because I was not given an SOR. I currently have a job offer on the table now contingent upon approval for an interim clearance. How should I report the reasons why I was previously denied, if I myself don't know the exact reason on my current SF-86? Or does the previous case hold no bearing on the current investigation?
I have approx $8900 in non-delinquent credit card debt that I'm currently paying back on time although the charging privileges were cancelled (not charged off in default and referred to a third party collection agency). I had the cards turned off at my request. I have one account that did default in the amount of $2200 two years ago but I've made payment arrangements and followed a payment plan for the last two years. Currently that default debt is approx $300 and still on time (my credit report does not detail the payment plan, just the current balance of the debt). How should I report that I've been paying the debt back for the last two years if there is no record of an established payment plan? On top of that I have approx $1500 in collections from an unpaid medical bill. The collection agency refuses to allow me to go on a payment plan and wants the payment upfront. I have every intention to pay that debt once I'm able to save the money to cover it. Will my total aggregate delinquent debt (debts referred to a third party collection agency) in the amount of $1800 prevent me from being granted an interim secret clearance?My financial bind stems from being unemployed for a year in 2009.
In 2010 I was pulled over for driving on a suspended license (I had no clue it was suspended). I was not charged with anything, just ticketed. The case was thrown out in traffic court because the court determined it was suspended in error. Should I document this incident on the SF-86 although it's not on my driving record because it was thrown out in court?
Your contributions to this website are extremely helpful and I hope you're able to answer my inquiries. Many thanks. |
|
|
|
|
Hurt Skins Fan (Washington DC) on November 18, 2011 at 3:17am
|
|
|
|
Hello, I was recently accepted a position in another agency and as a result I was told that under the Dept of Navy everyone has to be be Secret eligible and to expect a request to login to eQUIP in the coming months. As of this moment, I am current on all of my cc and mortgage debt and have paid (it reflects that status on my credit report) any collection accounts (there were two - one item was 40.00 and the other was 250.00). My issue is that my mortgage did go 30 days and in the past I have been 90 days on one cc and 120 on another in 2009 with a few 30 day hits in between. I cannot think of anything that I can do at the moment as I am current and when I called credit counseling to try to show I am paying they said I have no grounds to enroll because I cleaned it up. In terms of reason for the delinquency it was honeslty me just being overwhelmed and not paying better attention. Is there anything that I can do now? Does what I described sound really bad? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I am really concerned at this point. |
|
|
|
|
DAL (Virginia) on November 16, 2011 at 1:49pm
|
|
|
|
Can back child support stop you from your clearances even if you were unemployed and that's the reason it's back up? |
|
|
|
|
Dave on November 15, 2011 at 9:07pm
|
|
|
|
LWL (california):
Under the circumstance it's almost impossible for you to get an interim security clearance. It's possible you could get a final clearance, but some company/agency would have to sponsor you for the clearance and be willing to wait until the investigation was completed and adjudicated. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 14, 2011 at 11:16pm
|
|
|
|
I'm applying for an Army job requiring SECRET clearance to attempt the selection course.
Because of a misunderstanding, I didn't list the following loans on my security interview:
I have 117,902$ total in federal/private student loans--all accounts satisfactory, all w/ monthly payments of 952$.
Also, I have several accounts in collections--almost all of them from a period where I lived in off-campus student housing briefly, and did not receive any of the mostly-medical bills. My student insurance covered them, but when the insurance came to me requesting more info before they paid the care providers, I had already left.
These include
2008$ -unpaid (disputing this large sum w/ insurance company I mentioned--but will prob pay it within a month, if it comes to that)
650$- paid
250$- paid (emergency room bill)
300$- paid
1,650$- (750$ paid, w/ payment plan in place)
I am going to return to my recruiter, immediately, and ask him how to report these to OPM ASAP.
* With these numbers, what chance do I have of receiving SECRET clearance, and what would you recommend doing to improve my chances? Further, how best can I contact the security interviewer at a MEPS station (Westover AFB in MA)?*
Thanks |
|
|
|
|
AggieDude (NY) on November 10, 2011 at 9:29pm
|
|
|
|
I was recently denied my interim security clearance. Of course the job was based on getting that. I sent a letter for the FOIA and received a response back that said basically, "recent Bankruptcy" . The BK was discharged over a year ago and the only reason we filed was because of the business I was in and the recent economy, we couldn't pay our equipment payments. My attorney negotiated a pay off on the equipment if I found a buyer but the leasing company still wanted to hold me personally responsible for the balance. My attorney recommended we file BK. with that, how do I get a interim clearance? I had secret security clearance back in the 90's when I was in the navy. Any help would be appreciated. |
|
|
|
|
LWL (california) on November 9, 2011 at 2:36pm
|
|
|
|
Mr Henderson,
I have a question regarding taxes. I have always filed my taxes and have never had a negative judgement or audit against me. We purchased a house in 2005 and began renting it out in 2006 and 2007. For those tax years we did not disclose the amount of rent we had earned because we had been told by a friend that if we didn't make a profit we didn't need to disclose it. The money earned went straight to paying the mortgage and we were actually loosing about 300.00 a year in minor expensis and upkeep of the rental. In 2009 we applied for a VA loan and the loan officer asked us if we had gotten money for the rental during these years. We said yes and he told us that we needed to disclose it on an ademdum to the IRS. We went to a tax professional and she prepared the forms for us and sent them in. We actually got a refund from the state and federal because of the annual deppreciation of the house. We also got our VA loan without any hassel. Since then we have reported every cent earned from the rental property and have never had any issues. On the SF-86 it staes if I have ever failed to file or pay my taxes. I dont know if this qualifies as failure to file, what advise can you give me? Thank you so much. |
|
|
|
|
Rey (Va) on November 6, 2011 at 1:56am
|
|
|
|
We have never been late on a payment, everything gets paid on time well before the due date. When I say never I truly mean never. However, we do have a lot of debt. We own a house, and have a boat a camper and a car we pay for. Mainly credit cards that we always pay off at the end of the year. Will that affect a clearance? Everyone talks about bad credit but our credit is good. Our report has 0 negative remarks and our score is mid 700's. The only thing bad is maybe our debt load. |
|
|
|
|
quiet on November 4, 2011 at 1:34pm
|
|
|
|
I am a contractor and I was offered a government position. When I got my clearance as a contractor, I had a lot of back child support debt and was working to put my financial house in order. I have made regular payments but when the contract was awarded to another company, I talked to the mothers of my children and we agreed that I would pay them directly to better my relationships with them, as well as my kids and to hopefully end our child support cases. They too have been dissatisfied with the court system. My investigator came back and said that they were concerned about my tax filings. Unbeknownst to me, my uncle failed to file my tax returns yet I raced to another tax filing service and made payment arrangements to them. My case has been in adjudication for almost a month and I am worried about it. I just got married and have a brand new baby girl. My tax arrangements have gone on without a hitch but the arrangement with my kids' moms have been the same. I have no court dates, warrants or anything pending in the child support system but I cant sleep nights thinking about my clearance. The weird thing is that I already have a secret clearance and am being reinvestigated for another secret clearance....and my clearance just turned two years old a month ago. What do you think are my chances and if I get denied for the clearance to my government position, do I still get to keep my contractor clearance??? |
|
|
|
|
Quentin (Charming, ND ) on November 1, 2011 at 7:10am
|
|
|
|
The only outstanding requirement to obtain my security clearance is to resolve a charged-off mortgage loan on a property which has already foreclosed. I contacted the bank to arrange a payment agreement, but was told that as far as they are concerned we don't owe anything and due to alot of legal issues they won't accept any money from us.
What can I provide to satify this requirement? Will a letter stating the above suffice from my lender if they are willing to write one? |
|
|
|
|
br (CA) on October 25, 2011 at 1:56pm
|
|
|
|
My company won a govt contract and now anyone who might be associated with this must go through a background check. My concerns are that I am currently going through a Chapter 13, about mid way through my payments. Because of this my student loans are in deferred until the Bankruptcy is closed.
Unrelated to this topic, I'm also not sure about travel, I've been to Europe and have been sent to Costa Rica by my employer. (same one I work for now.)
Thank you |
|
|
|
|
MetFan (NY) on October 25, 2011 at 1:43pm
|
|
|
|
JP (Virginia):
The questions regarding tax liens and failure to pay/file federal, state and other taxes did not change. Other than the credit report, investigators can only check financial and tax records with a specific release signed by the applicant. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 23, 2011 at 12:09am
|
|
|
|
I noticed some new wording in the financial questions on the latest SF86. Do investigators check whether an applicant's state taxes have been filed? For instance if one does not owe taxes (there are no liens or delinquent tax bills, etc) but has gaps in filing state returns, would that be something an investigator would be checking into in a SSBI? |
|
|
|
|
JP (Virginia) on October 21, 2011 at 7:44pm
|
|
|
|
Matty (Somewhere surrounded by water):
Owning property in many foreign countries is not a problem, provided the property value represents only a small fraction of your net worth that you would be willing to walk away from if things went south. Today's friend can be tomorrow's enemy. See my article on Foreign Influence on this website. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 19, 2011 at 11:16pm
|
|
|
|
Lali (TX):
You list it on the SF86 and tell them what happened. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 19, 2011 at 11:09pm
|
|
|
|
sb (arizona): Correction.
You only have to disclose current credit counseling on the SF86. So if you get out of counseling before your next PR, you don't have to list it. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 19, 2011 at 11:08pm
|
|
|
|
Sb (Arizona):
There are a lot of disreputable credit counseling agencies. I recommend you go to a member agency of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. Check them out online. If they can help you, they will. If they can’t help you, they’ll probably recommend bankruptcy. Credit counseling is not something you must report to your security officer, provided you do not become significantly delinquent on your debts. You will have to list it on your SF86 for your next PR. Bankruptcy must be reported to your security officer immediately, because bankruptcy results from “inability . . . to satisfy debts.” |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 19, 2011 at 11:02pm
|
|
|
|
Bill, this is a great resource, thank you for all the help you're providing people. Wow, debt is really kicking people in the pants.I have $0 debt and have had $0 debt for two years now, it's a good feeling. Well, my situation is hypothetical. I'm curious as to how owning property in Hungary or Portugal affects my clearance. I just spent a month traveling Europe and have fallen in love with those two countries, almost walked into the embassy to inquire about internships w/ State actually. At any rate, about to hit submit on some very in depth investigation and wonder for when the time comes, what is the big deal about owning property in foreign countries? Especially if you're the super-loyal on the verge of paranoid type. |
|
|
|
|
Matty (Somewhere surrounded by water) on October 19, 2011 at 1:58pm
|
|
|
|
I found this article to have be the most comprehensive regarding this issue. My situation is: I have a student federal loan debt of about 32K total, all inclusive. I defaulted on one loan included in my debt around 2008, due to financial hardship and enrollment in a master's program on my part, combined with a misplaced in-school deferment paperwork on the part of the lender. The lender refuses to recognize fault eventhough they did defer another loan in my account. Now that I am current on my payments and graduated from my masters, how should I go about addressing this issue during a clearance process. |
|
|
|
|
Lali (TX) on October 19, 2011 at 12:41pm
|
|
|
|
We are in about 32k in unsecured debt due to the housing market, two layoffs and two moves. We have sold cars, timeshares, motorcycles most of our furniture etc, but just to make ends meet and we can not get on top or our credit cards. Clearance doesnt go under review for about 4 years or more. Do you suggest debt consolidation or bankruptcy. We do not have financial issues and they will see there is not track record, just trying to survive and feed our kids. Please give any suggestions you may have as my clearance IS my ability to support my family.
Thank you! |
|
|
|
|
sb (arizona) on October 14, 2011 at 2:39pm
|
|
|
|
Bill,
Thank you for your response to my SF86 question from June 30th. I followed your advice precisely. TS/SCI clearance was granted today. It took approximately 3 months from SF86 submittance to adjudication.
Thanks again and regards, |
|
|
|
|
Anonymous419655 (Maryland) on October 13, 2011 at 6:03pm
|
|
|
|
AFARMVET (Crystal city): If you are asking whether it is possible to mitigate the negative effect of a student loan that went into default but was paid off soon thereafter, YES. In fact if the student loan was paid off more than 7 years ago, it does not have to be have to be listed on the SF86. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 6, 2011 at 5:54pm
|
|
|
|
Need help badly (Springfield VA):
Normally an interim clearance declination does not affect the process of a final clearance. The processing, which includes the investigation, will only stop if the sponsoring agency withdraws the clearance request. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 6, 2011 at 5:48pm
|
|
|
|
Sir,
Can you clarify ramifications about default on federal insured student loans (that occured over ten years ago and which were paid off soon after default through wage garnishment while in private sector) in obtaining a DOJ TS
I currently hold a valid secret, and have had a DoD TS/SCi which had expired prior to default on these student loans |
|
|
|
|
AFARMVET (Crystal city) on October 5, 2011 at 10:22pm
|
|
|
|
I was just recently declined for a interim TS for Financial reasons. Does this mean I will not get an investigation? Also my financial issues are due to a loss of employment and divorce. I was planning on filing for bankruptcy but was told not to because I am on the PPP list to be placed for new employment. On my credit report it shows I owe for child support that I am waiting to go to court to clear up but could that be the reason I didn't receive the interim on top of my finances? |
|
|
|
|
Need help badly (Springfield VA) on October 5, 2011 at 11:38am
|
|
|
|
I have recently sworn in to the Navy. I am awaiting security clearence, and I have recently gound out about a debt that i have. it is for a car loan. I plan to pay off my outstanding debt within the next 8 months before bootcamp! should I worry? the debt totals 10,000 dollars but i now have the means to pay it off! |
|
|
|
|
anonymous (san diego cal) on October 4, 2011 at 12:26pm
|
|
|
|
Concerned (Australia):
Your boyfriend was misinformed. You will not be investigated and therefore your credit problems will not be known to the US Government. Your boyfriend will be questioned about you, the nature of your relationship, frequency of contact, method of contact, and a little about your personal history. Please advise your boyfriend not to disclose his clearance status to foreign nationals. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 4, 2011 at 11:10am
|
|
|
|
My boyfriend is USAF, I am not an American. he recently discovered that he will be getting TS clearance and has informed me that in order for us to continue our relationship I will have to be subjected to a security/background check. As I am merely his girlfriend and I have no criminal record but I do have bad credit I was wondering if anyone can tell me will that affect his ability to be granted the clearance he requires to further his career? We do not have any bills or bank accounts in both of our names and our finances are completely separate. I need advice on what will be involved in the security check. He will be stationed and residing in the USA and I will continue residing in Australia. I do not want my bad credit to be the ruination of his military career as he would never forgive me. |
|
|
|
|
Concerned (Australia) on October 4, 2011 at 5:14am
|
|
|
|
Veronica (Washington, DC):
If you are the employee of a contractor, the only options available to you are those options (if any) contained in the letter from the DHS component agency advising you that you were determined “unsuitable.”
When an SF86 is submitted the investigation is either an NACLC or an ANACI. When an SF85P is submitted the investigation is usually an MBI. The MBI is a more detailed investigation than either the NACLC or the ANACI. The NACLC and ANACI are used for national security clearance determinations and the MBI is used for a Public Trust determination. The criteria for national security clearances and Public Trust determinations are similar but there are differences. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 30, 2011 at 1:42pm
|
|
|
|
VE (Utah):
Does your question have something to do with a security clearance? |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 30, 2011 at 1:31pm
|
|
|
|
Worried (West Virginia):
In your case a bankruptcy should have absolutely no effect on your cohabitant’s security clearance now or in the future, provided no joint accounts are included in the bankruptcy and the bankruptcy occurs before you get married. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 30, 2011 at 1:27pm
|
|
|
|
I received a favorable suitability by completing a SF86 for a DHS agency for an contractor administrative assistant position. I was promoted to a contractor personnel security specialist with the same agency and was asked to complete a SF85P where I received an unfavorable suitability. Nothing changed as far as my financial circumstances which required additional information which I provided and the forms and investigations were completed within 3 months of one another. I want to know what my options may be since I was approved for a lesser position but at a higher level suitability and denied at a higher position but at a lower level suitability. Did I even need to complete a second form? Thank you. |
|
|
|
|
Veronica (Washington, DC) on September 30, 2011 at 10:58am
|
|
|
|
Due to my spouses disability, huge medical expenses, loss of income, etc. we applied for a loan mod. We rec'd a denial letter today due to our credit scores. Of course our scores have droppped..our lives have been turned upside down. I thought we fit the exact profile for a loan mod. Very concerned and very worried. Any thoughts? |
|
|
|
|
VE (Utah) on September 28, 2011 at 3:12pm
|
|
|
|
I am living with my boyfriend who has Top Secret security clearance. I have been divorced for over 4 years and still dealing with financial problems from my divorce. I gave my ex our marital home and he was suppose to refinance to remove my name but has been denied refinancing due to an IRS tax lien and he refuses to sell the home. He has been late paying the mortgage many times and has ruined my credit. I am considering filing bankruptcy in order to have my name removed from the mortgage. Will my filing bankrupcy hurt my boyfriends security clearance since we live together? If we were to marry, can my past credit problems due to my divorce hurt his future clearances? |
|
|
|
|
Worried (West Virginia) on September 23, 2011 at 8:16pm
|
|
|
|
BBD (Ft Leonardwood MO):
I recommend you read Sheldon Cohen’s excellent article and detailed report on the subject of foreclosures and short sales and their effect on security clearances. The article is posted at http://www.clearancejobs.com/cleared-news/173/debt-and-home-foreclosures-their-effect-on-national-security-clearances and the article contains a link to the entire report. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 13, 2011 at 8:07pm
|
|
|
|
AJ (VA):
Did you commit the drug-related offense? What involvement have you had with drugs? Has your student loan ever been in default? If your student loan is not in default and you have the money to pay it off, why would you want to pay it off, but then take a whole year to pay off a delinquent credit card debt of $2,000? You might be able to do a negotiated settlement on the credit card debt for half that amount. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 13, 2011 at 7:55pm
|
|
|
|
khg (Detroit):
I don’t think there’s anything I can tell you that is not in the article (above) and the three related articles on this subject. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 13, 2011 at 7:41pm
|
|
|
|
Kevin (New York):
You should consult a reputable consumer credit counseling service, preferably one associated with the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. They will assess your situation and advise you whether your situation can be resolved better through bankruptcy (chapter 7 or chapter 13) or through debt consolidation. Whichever course you follow, get started now, so you can show consistent, systematic, good faith efforts to repay or otherwise resolve debts and don’t incur any new debt. Don’t be afraid of bankruptcy, if your situation warrants it. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 13, 2011 at 7:19pm
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
First of all good day. I have a clearance question/quandry. I retired from the Army in 2008 from Tampa, prior to my retirement myself and a former spouse had purchased a home in 2006. When I retired I attempted to find employment in the Tampa area with no results(to date I have applied to over 200 contract and government positions in Tampa with hopes of moving back there). I was able to acquire employment with the Department of the Army as a civilian at Ft Bragg NC. I have continued to pay for the Tampa residence. Recently I was transferred to Ft LeonardWood Mo where I do not have the opportunity to deploy, essentially cutting my pay in half. I cannot continue to pay for the house in Tampa and maintain a residence near my place of work. Mr Henderson other than this house which is extremely "underwater" my credit and financial background is almost perfect. I have maintained a TS clearance with multiple caveats for over 12 years. If I ultimately have to foreclose on this house what are my chances of keeping my clearance. I will caveat that with i am attempting to short sale the home through my mortgage lender with the HAFA program but i continue to receive the runaround from them. Any information you can provide is appreciated. |
|
|
|
|
BBD (Ft Leonardwood MO) on September 13, 2011 at 1:41pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
Last week I was offered a position that requires me to get a Secret security clearance. I have some bad debt, and a dismissed drug charge.
I am only 24, the charge occurred when I was 20 and my debt was accrued when I was 18 years old. I went through counseling very successfully for the charge, but I am quite concerned about my debt.
I have current dept of $17,000, $15,000 of which is from student loans that I will be paying in full before I accept the position. The other $2,000, i believe, is from credit cards, though when I looked my report up an "unknown" debt of $1342 was on it. I have not made payments on my debt for nearly 6 years, would it help if I made arrangements now? Or do I have no chance of getting a clearance due to my less-than-perfect past? I just graduated from college and have been employed making very little for the last two years, and I can pay the debt off within the year. I will be starting the job in less than 3 weeks if I accept.
Thanks for your insight. |
|
|
|
|
AJ (VA) on September 12, 2011 at 4:47pm
|
|
|
|
I am between a rock and a hrd place. Last year I accepted a job with the Coast Guard in Virginia. I thought I could sell or rent my home but cannot and I could not/cannot afford two residences. I ended up quitting my job because I could not short sale my home -- My job required a secret clearance. Today, I am being considered for other Federal job opportunities that require public trust and/or secret clearances out of Michigan (no jobs here in my field). The only way out of my home that has lost 65% of its value (I did not buy high--its just our property values continue to tank due to maassive foreclosures--I woud have to breing $65k to closing) is through bankruptcy. I am not late on any of my bills but cannot afford to move. Would I hurt my chances of obtaining a clearance and employment by declaring bankruptcy? Please help. Thank you. |
|
|
|
|
khg (Detroit) on September 10, 2011 at 4:21pm
|
|
|
|
Hello Mr Henderson,
I first want to say how I think it is wonderful that you are helping everyone. I am applying for a position to work disaster work as an Independent Contractor for FEMA and my fingerprints have come back favorable, but I am concerned about my eqip. I lost my job as a well paid carpenter in 2008 and was rehired for 6 months just to be laid off again in 2010. During this process my wife and I started a buisness and needed cashflow. We were given advice from the small buisness center in mn to try low interest credit cards. After losing my job and struggling to find a new one, we accumulated a lot more debt than we can handle. We have recently spoke with a bankruptcy lawyer and plan to file as soon as he is paid off. We also have 2 rental properties, one of which is so far upside down that we have decided to let it go into foreclosure. As of 2008 I had very good credit and so did my wife. We are still paying on one of the properties and our own home, yet struggling. I know this position does not require a high level of clearence, but I wanted to know your thoughts on what could help and the odds of obtaining the position? |
|
|
|
|
Kevin (MN) on September 9, 2011 at 12:02pm
|
|
|
|
Hi! Thanks for the informative video & article.
I want to apply for the HPSP (Health Professionals Scholarship Program) to be a surgeon for the Navy or Air Force, which requires eligibility for Secret Clearance. I plan to apply in 2 years (after I finish pre-med requirements and get into med school), and I want to get started on fixing my financial situation.
I started a business when I was 22 (3 years ago). The business failed, leaving me with about $40,000 in debt. I reacted irresponsibly to this debt and did not pay it off. Instead, I drove around on a motorcycle without health insurance and ended up getting into an accident that added another $30,000 to my debt. So all in all, I've got around $70,000 in debt. This is all in collections and I haven't made payments in a long time.
My current income is only about $40,000/year and living expenses are pretty high where I live. I am barely able to get by, let alone save money and pay back debts. I can't imagine how I'm going to be able to pay off that whole $70,000.
Is bankruptcy really my best option right now? I'd actually prefer to try to settle the debts but I don't think I will even be able to come up with the money to do that at this point...
Thanks so much for your help! |
|
|
|
|
Kevin (New York) on September 6, 2011 at 9:59pm
|
|
|
|
I am up for a Periodic Reinvestigation and have completed my SF86. My concern is that I have one delinquent credit Card Account ($8,000). The credit card debt was acquired do to when my now separated wife had lost her job and we were unable to make the payments on the card. After separating from the military and my wife six months before that; I had to move out of my on base house and they accessed $1000 worth of damages that I was unable to make payments on due to my 3 month unemployment. All of this was about a year and a half ago. I have just recently moved into a cheaper apartment and now feel that I can afford to start making payments on both of these accounts and have made arrangements with the collection agencies to make payments. Will they look unfavorably on the fact that I have only just started to make payments and will this mean a denial on my reinvestigation? |
|
|
|
|
LewB (Illinois) on August 30, 2011 at 9:16pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I work for a federal agency and am required to hold a secret clearance. I have been employed for 8 years and have held an interim clearance and been reviewed yearly due to credit issues. My home is currently in foreclosure and I will have to claim a chapter 7 bankruptcy due to a second mortgage not covered by the foreclosure. I am also up for my annual clearance review. I am wondering if the new set of circumstances on top of my previous financial issues will cause my clearance to be revoked. Another bit of info is that I have always received stellar performance reviews, have an excellent reputation with co-workers and supervisors.
Thanks for your input. |
|
|
|
|
MN (Oregon) on August 25, 2011 at 11:25am
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
As far as the DUI goes it was in June of last year. It's only been a year and two months. That is the only alcohol charge or run in, along with any charge of any kind on my record. As far as the credit goes, the delinquent cards were obtained and not paid while a student in college. I'm only 25 and have been out of school for about a year and a half. So working for 7.25 an hour part time on top of rent, utilities, food, etc just wasn't doable to pay the debts while in school. So that's the reason it wasn't until recently I have been able to setup payment plans. I hope this helps in giving you some background to let me know if my clearance decision will be favorable or not; assuming I give the investigator all information on the debts proving I have arrangements setup for them. Thank you so much for your time. |
|
|
|
|
Disappointed VA (Virginia) on August 21, 2011 at 4:35pm
|
|
|
|
Good Evening Mr. Hendersen,
I am a current employee with the DoD and maintain a security clearance. I got myself into a situation where I was unable to pay my credit card debt for the past year. I was supporting my boyfriend who had lost his source of income and ended up paying for everything, including a higher rent than I could afford along with the rest of the bills. Consequently, all of my accounts have been charged off and sent to collections. My lease has run out and I have since moved to another place and am now capable of starting to make payments on my credit cards again.
Today I called a credit counseling service to enroll in their program. It seems that the monthly payment that I would have to make in order to accomplish this in the required five year period would not be affordable for me. I was advised to call my creditors myself to work out a debt repayment plan. I am not sure how to do this and would rather get some help with it, which is what I attempted to do today.
In five years my clearance will be up for rejudication, and I am hoping to have my charged off accounts paid off by then. I understand the importance of paying off my debt and the relationship it has with my security clearance, but how would it be affected if I settled my debt with my creditors rather than pay off the full amount? I am anxious about this because I obviously cannot afford to lose my security clearance, or my job, and I want to do what is right, I just cannot afford to make high payments. Do you have some advice for me as to the best way of solving this problem?
Thank you for your assistance. |
|
|
|
|
SR321 (Santa Barbara California) on August 19, 2011 at 7:29pm
|
|
|
|
Losttacostand (UT):
Yes, you need to list it. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 19, 2011 at 12:38am
|
|
|
|
Bebe:
There may be enough mitigation to save his clearance, but most financial situations are much more complicated than can be describe in a few sentences. If you have become significantly delinquent in any of your debts, he needs to report it immediately to his security officer—don’t wait for the Periodic Reinvestigation. Bankruptcies per se do not cause clearance denials or revocations. It’s the underlying financial problems that can cause clearance denial/revocation. This situation is too important for you to be looking for free advice on the internet. Even if you gave a 500 word explanation of your situation, it wouldn’t be enough for personnel security professional to give you meaningful advice and assistance. For your type of situation it would take 4 to 8 hours questions, answers, and document preparation. If your husband had a serious illness would you look for advice on the internet on how to treat it rather than see a physician? Alternatively you can hope and pray that the investigator assigned to do your husband’s case is competent, knowledgable, experienced, and able to give the case as much time as it needs. Unfortunately, security clearance investigators receive little or no training regarding the “Adjudicative Guidelines for Determining Eligibility for Access to Classified Information.” Most have less than 5 years of experience; are underpaid; and are constantly being badgered by their supervisors to complete their cases faster. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 19, 2011 at 12:35am
|
|
|
|
AY-SANDOVAL (TEXAS):
The important question is why. Why did you accumulate more debt than you could manage? Or was it that your income declined? Your spouse has a chance of receiving a TS clearance but much will depend on your financial history over the past 7 to 10 years, how you got into this problem, and his ability to convincingly present all mitigating factors related to your financial problems, plus positive whole-person factors, that clearly show that you will not get into financial problems in the future. You may need the help of a personnel security consultant to improve your chance of success. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 19, 2011 at 12:08am
|
|
|
|
Dissapointed VA (Virginia):
Your chance of a final clearance depends on how long the credit cards were delinquent before you started to pay them off and why the credit cards because delinquent. It also depends on how long ago your DUI offense occurred and whether there are other indicators of an alcohol problem. The investigator will ask you for everything you have regarding your debts. But if not, you should offer any information you have. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 18, 2011 at 11:53pm
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
We have just found out my husbands job will require him to acquire Top Secret Clearance . He works as a contractor for the government and is also in the reserves. They have both told him if he is not granted cleareance he will lose both jobs and get kicked out of the military . We filled bankruptcy 02/2010, we were not bringing in enough income to be able to pay all our bills mortgage and vehicles. so we decided to go with chapter 13 bankruptcy only because we didnt want to lose our house. we gave up all the vehicles and other unecesary purchases under bankruptcy to lower the cost of our debt weare paying the max we can so we can pay more towards bankruptcy. we dont even get income tax cause it all goes towards our bankruptcy. Can you give me any advice if we even stand a chance of him keeping his jobs or should we start planning for the worst :(
thank you worried sposue |
|
|
|
|
AY-SANDOVAL (TEXAS) on August 17, 2011 at 12:57pm
|
|
|
|
My husband has a SCI clearance which is up for review in Nov, we are contiplating bankruptcy but scared he will lose his clearance. Over the last year, we have been to court for his child support several times, his child support has tripled, and we also had a child and I was out of work for a while, we are upside down in our house, tried to sell it, didn't sell, tried to rent it, didn't rent, so now we may have to move back. If we claim bankruptcy will he lose his clearance? |
|
|
|
|
bebe on August 15, 2011 at 9:56am
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
Any feedback on my question at all??
Thank you |
|
|
|
|
Dissapointed VA (VA) on August 14, 2011 at 10:25pm
|
|
|
|
I'm wondering what the employment verification process that an investigator uses to verify employment? I did some consulting work for another company while working full time at my "day job"
I'm filling out my SF86 and I do not remember the dates that I worked for them and they are no longer around. Do I need to list this since there is no gap in employment history and if so, any recommendations no finding this information?
Thanks! |
|
|
|
|
Losttacostand (UT) on August 12, 2011 at 4:47pm
|
|
|
|
I currently have a security clearence in the marine corps. It was cleared by the marine corps in march of 2010 and in aug 2010 but they said they will run through it real quick again. I do have some bad debt that was on my report at the time of each other check only totaling about 1400 dollars. Just curious if it could effect this run through or if they will even go that deep into it. |
|
|
|
|
lj (Washington) on August 11, 2011 at 12:59pm
|
|
|
|
Being denied a job, or security clearance because of debts is one of the most idiotic things I have ever heard. It's more of a reason to want and need a job if you have a debt! The stupid excuse that people who are in debt are more likely to commit fraud is ludicrous. Many people who have tons of money commit fraud. You look at the person and his trustworthiness not if he has debts. In this day and age where it is anathema to discriminate against anything and anyone being denied a job because of a debt is TRUE discrimination. |
|
|
|
|
Sage (U.S.A) on August 10, 2011 at 5:37pm
|
|
|
|
aan (nyc):
You will have to report it to your security officer now and on future SF86s, but it definitely should not result in a clearance revocation or denial. Four out of six mitigating conditions under the “Financial Considerations” criterion in the Adjudicative Guidelines apply to your situation. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 10, 2011 at 4:31pm
|
|
|
|
NOVA girl (Alexandria):
For federal employment suitability purposes, financial problems are covered under the criterion of “criminal or dishonest conduct.” As long as you continue to pay down the judgment in a reasonable manner, it should not be a disqualifying condition for federal employment. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 10, 2011 at 4:24pm
|
|
|
|
Worried in the sandbox (Texas):
In that case it sounds like there was a problem with the reconveyance deed from the mortgage holder. I’m not qualified to give financial advice, but the reconveyance deed may not have been properly recorded in county records. Recommend you file a dispute with the credit bureau and give them a copy of the reconveyance. Also insure that the reconveyance deed was recorded at the county recorders office in the county where the property is located. For your security clearance reporting the matter on an SF86C is sufficient, but keep a copy of the SF86C. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 10, 2011 at 4:18pm
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
Thank you for the information. I reported it on my last 86C, about six months ago, and did not hear anything. Do I need to take any further action?
On a side note, the loan was a VA assumable mortage. The way they were written back then was that they were transferrable (which is what took place), but was told that it could possibly show on my credit for the life of the loan. |
|
|
|
|
Worried in the sandbox (Texas) on August 9, 2011 at 11:29am
|
|
|
|
Hello,
My credit has taking a dive since my mother's car was repossessed due to her disability and I co-sign and now I have a judgment. I have recently applied to be a federal occupational nurse and worried about my credit. I am working at repairing it and paying down the judgment, but overall I'm a good person with no criminal background. |
|
|
|
|
NOVA girl (Alexandria) on August 8, 2011 at 5:35pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I currently hold Secret clearance. I filed my 2010 tax return 4 months late. The reason is that I unexpectedly had to leave home for a couple months, and my accountant could not submit my tax forms without my signing them. I couldn't afford to hire another accountant to do the taxes in the other city, as I had already paid the first one and was waiting to take up a position after 5 months of unemployment. Getting the taxes filed was the first thing I did upon returning home. I derived no financial benefit from the late filing, as I received a significantly greater refund than what I owed.
Will this be a problem when I am up for reinvestigation for my Secret? Will it be a problem if I ever apply for Top Secret?
Thank you! |
|
|
|
|
aan (nyc) on August 8, 2011 at 12:25pm
|
|
|
|
AH (Maryland):
I think an interim clearance is not going to happen. Your situation is much too complicated to make a snap judgment regarding a final clearance, but on the surface it doesn’t look good. You will need to present a lot more mitigation than you have presented here to get a favorable decision. Recommend you read the article on “Debt and Home Foreclosures: Their Effect on National Security Clearances” on this website. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 6, 2011 at 3:20am
|
|
|
|
elmo (sand box):
Depends on why your debt became delinquent, what you’ve been doing about it for the past 3 years, and whether you reported it to your security officer. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 6, 2011 at 3:10am
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
I recently recieved word my waiver was disapproved for my interim clearance. This is probably because of a DUI (Only criminal/alcohol offense I've ever had) and because of 4 credit cards I have on my credit report. One CC was $2,100 which was completely paid off three weeks ago, so that one is done but still shows up obviously on the report. The other three are $430, $619 and $750. ALL of which currently are setup to for payment plans which have already had their first payment made. So I have shown willingness to re-pay this debt. Now I've heard minimum of 30 days for an investigator to be assigned to my case and get the ball rolling on my investigation. What are my chances of recieving a favorable decision when it comes to getting my final clearance? Other than the CC's and one alcohol charge, the SF86 looks great with no other complicating factors. (Also, for when I DO get contacted by a security officer - Should I inform them that I have letters proving my payment plans and my receipt showing the 2,100 dollar CC paid off) Thank you so much in advance for your time and reply! |
|
|
|
|
Dissapointed VA (Virginia) on August 5, 2011 at 4:58pm
|
|
|
|
Long story, but I'll make it as brief and possible! I have received an offer from a defense contractor that does work with NGA. I will need a TS/SCI. My problems started in 2009 with 4 rental properties, 2 HELOCS, my personal mortgage, a furlough, and the birth of my son. Over a period of time all the tenants defaulted and I started trying to keep up with the payments myself because I did not want to mess up my credit. When my son was born and I was furloughed, I could no longer keep up with the payments of the 4 properties and the 2 HELOCS. Slowly I fell behind on my personal mortgage, and went into default over 180 days late due to the financial snowball.
I had offers for the 4 properties to short sale but 2 fell through and went to foreclosure. Of the 2 remaining, 1 short sold and the other was a deed-in-lieu where the bank agreed to take back the property. The 2 HELOCS were charged off, but I am currently on a repayment plan directly with the bank for both.
I have completed a loan modification with my personal home and have a much lower payment. Before the down-turn of the market, I have "NEVER" had anything like this occur as I had excellent credit since my first credit card over 22 years ago. What are my chances of getting an interim approval, and then a final acceptance for the TS/SCI?
Note: My loan mod and deed-in-lieu were just finalized last month. Thank you in advance!!! |
|
|
|
|
AH (Maryland) on August 5, 2011 at 1:46pm
|
|
|
|
I currently have a secret clearance however I'm trying to get a upgrade to a TS for a new job. What is my probability in getting the TS if I had derogatory credit in my credit report in the past 3 years? I'm currently in enrolled into a debt consolidation program to rectify the issues. Aside from the bad credit everything else is in good order. Thank you in advance for your assistance |
|
|
|
|
elmo (sand box) on August 5, 2011 at 12:35pm
|
|
|
|
Worried in the Sandbox (Texas):
Sounds like your divorce lawyer messed up. Transferring the deed for your property to your ex-husband has no effect on your mortgage. Unless you got the mortgage company to remove your name from the mortgage you are still equally responsible for it. Mortgage companies usually refuse to do this, so most people who divorce have their ex-spouse refinance the mortgage in their name only. You need to report this situation to your security officer. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 5, 2011 at 6:42am
|
|
|
|
My ex and I split up 8 years ago, at which time he assumed the VA loan on our house, I transferred the deed over to his name (legally recorded in county records) and we parted company. Now, 8 years later he has fallen behind on a $35,000 mortagage and it is showng on my credit report - even though I am no longer involved. I am worried this can negatively impact my current Secret clearance. Can you shed any light on this, please? |
|
|
|
|
Worried in the Sandbox (Texas) on August 3, 2011 at 5:12am
|
|
|
|
MLB (Kentucky):
You must answer “Yes” to both questions regarding delinquent debt (currently 90 days delinquent and previously 180 days delinquent). The fact that some of your unpaid debts have fallen off your credit report does not relieve you of your responsibility to repay them. The length of time unpaid debts remain on a credit report is based on administrative rules regarding credit reports only; these rules do not affect the validity of the claim or the enforcement of debt repayment. Even if these debts are uncollectible because of some state statute of limitations, security clearance adjudicators view them as unpaid debts that you have an obligation to repay. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 3, 2011 at 3:37am
|
|
|
|
I have a secret clearance that is due for renewal in two years. I was gone away from home due to deployment and school for almost two years. When I checked my credit report this month I noticed I had two charge off account, which I immediately picked up the phone and paid off. Am I in risk of loosing my clearence when it gets renewed only for showing two charge off accounts that have been paid in full? I don't have any other credit issues or criminal related things.
Julio |
|
|
|
|
Julio (Baltimore) on August 2, 2011 at 12:09pm
|
|
|
|
Hello Mr. Henderson-My credit history is currently clean-nothing delinquent and nothing showing as past due at any point. However, I have had a few accounts fall of my credit report the past 2-3 years due to age of initial debt (more than 7 years ago). For the question, did you have anything 180 days past due in the last 7 years, do I answer yes or no? Yes, it showed on my CC as past due 2-3 years ago but the original debt was more than 7 years ago. It no longer shows on my report. I've been 100% devoted to my finances and have not had a *new* debt for the past 7 years; it just took a while for some of the older ones to fall off and to be paid off. So, if they showed up on my Credit as 180 days past due 2 years ago, do I answer yes even though the initial debt was 7 years ago? Thank you, Mr. Henderson |
|
|
|
|
MLB (Kentucky) on August 2, 2011 at 12:29am
|
|
|
|
I have a top secret clearance and would like to consolidate my credit card bills. I would like to know if this would Effect my clearance. |
|
|
|
|
MR. Really Worried (Maryland/Washington D.C.) on July 26, 2011 at 8:18am
|
|
|
|
I have recently gotten a firm offer for a Government position and was waiting on the Security Clearance. They have given me a waiver to work and I am moving to that state in the next 2 weeks. I am concerned about my clearance because of my credit score. The only debt that I have is my home loan (which we had done a loan modification on and was approved the day before I was let go of my previous job) and a truck loan for about $8,000. My credit score is pretty low but only because of late payments. Everything is currently paid off or up to date. I fell behind on my payments on things because one month after purchasing our home my wife was laid off and I had been trying to pay for everything including my wife and two small children on my own. My wife is currently working and so now the biggest worry is getting this security clearance to go through. I currently have security clearance for the military and was wondering if they will deny my clearance and possibly pull my previous clearance? We have not written bad checks or anything like that we basically had just been late and now my credit score is about 500 and building slowly. What are your thoughts? |
|
|
|
|
MC (SLC, Utah ) on July 20, 2011 at 12:23am
|
|
|
|
Help please (VA) :
Get moving on the credit counseling and start paying on all delinquent debts as soon possible. The new SF86 has a question about credit counseling and it is a standard question during a Subject Interview. Credit counseling can be a good thing. It shows good faith efforts to satisfy debts. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 15, 2011 at 5:05pm
|
|
|
|
tfhr (near DC):
Potentially? . . . you could have your clearance revoked. So called "strategic defaults" are not viewed favorably by adjudicators. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 15, 2011 at 5:00pm
|
|
|
|
I have 3 Credit cards which were Charge Off for a long time for more than 2 years.
$3100,
$1400 on the payment plan of collection agencies and
$600.
everything else is clean on my background crime drug .... currently I am on a credit counseling trying to get it cleared but that is recently 3 months ago.
what do you think i should do? (during the interview process should i bring the idea that i am on credit counseling or ...? ) I have already moved to the job place and it suck to be turn down after i spend almost $4000 for moving ....
Thanks in advance. |
|
|
|
|
Help please (VA) on July 15, 2011 at 9:02am
|
|
|
|
Hi,
I am trying to get a Secret security clearance for a federal job. I have NO criminal or misdemeanor records of any kind. I haven't even had a traffic violation in 5 years! My concern is that I filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy last year on 3 credit cards that I was falling behind by about 3 months on. This was due to divorce and reduction in work hours. Most of the balance on the cards was the debt I "inherited" in the divorce settlement. I have already been interviewed by an investigator. I mentioned in the interview that I tried credit counseling prior to filing bankruptcy, but 2 of the card companies would not participate. Most recently the investigator asked me to sign a release form so the credit counseling company can release my account records to the investigator. I've also told the investigator I have no debts other than my car loan which I've never been behind on. I do not even have any credit cards anymore. I also have a savings account for emergencies. I'm scared to death I won't get a clearance though. Any insight? |
|
|
|
|
pumpkin413 (Pgh) on July 15, 2011 at 12:36am
|
|
|
|
I’m upside down on a house – it’s worth $100,000 less than what we owe. I’ve never had a late payment on the mortgage but I’ve considered unloading the house in a short sale. Walking away from a house is not something I would normally consider doing but there is little chance of ever regaining our investment and it might just be time to move on to a better prospect.
What are the potential impacts on my clearance (TS/SCI/poly)? |
|
|
|
|
tfhr (near DC) on July 13, 2011 at 10:03pm
|
|
|
|
KB (Texas):
I don’t answer all the questions posted under my articles—particularly those that don’t present enough information, those that are unclear, and those that are so complicated that they would require an unrealistic amount of time to answer.
Your question falls into the first group. Without knowing when your husband became unemployed, the amount of the debts, when each debt become delinquent, and when you initiated efforts to begin repaying them, I can’t give you a meaningful answer. Only about 1% to 2% of all security clearance applications are formally denied, and there is no direct cost you or your prospective employer. So the more important question for you is: “What can I do to improve my chance of being granted a clearance.” |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 13, 2011 at 8:00am
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson - I seem to have gotten lost in the shuffle. When you have another moment can you please respond to my previous post?
KB (Texas) on June 21, 2011 at 2:39am
Thank you. |
|
|
|
|
KB (Texas) on July 8, 2011 at 10:34pm
|
|
|
|
Anonymous421233:
Q1: No, it’s taking longer because your case involves a serious issue. They are not going to sit on your case merely because you are still working out a repayment plan. Most DOD adjudicative agencies are in the process of moving this summer to a new location. That might also cause additional delays.
Q2: Yes. However, in your case a Personal Financial Statement should have been obtained from you during your Subject Interview by the investigator. If your TS was denied in 2007 due to financial considerations, you don’t have much chance of getting a favorable determination this time around unless all financial problems were cleared up some time ago and you have had at least a couple of years of paying your debts exactly as agreed. If the denial was due to some other reason, then you have a chance. I assume that you submitted your SF86 at least 5 months ago. If you are still in the process of fixing your financial problems at this point it doesn’t bode well for you. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 7, 2011 at 4:34pm
|
|
|
|
Abbey (NoVa):
You might not receive an interim clearance, but if your company is willing to continue sponsoring your clearance until a final clearance determination is made, you will probably receive a TS clearance. During your Personal Subject Interview (now called an Enhanced Subject Interview), you will have an opportunity to explain everything and provide any applicable mitigating factors. Recommend you read the articles on this website regarding “Drug Involvement and Security Clearance” and “Security Clearance: The Whole Person Concept” and “Personal Conduct.” Job abandonment isn’t misconduct, but it does reflect a degree of irresponsibility, which in combination with drug use and financial problems raise a “Personal Conduct” issue. Nevertheless, I don’t think your combination of problems will ultimately result in a clearance denial. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 7, 2011 at 4:22pm
|
|
|
|
MUK (Dayton OH) on July 7, 2011 at 10:40am:
If deemed necessary by the adjudicative agency, you will have an opportunity to provide a detailed explanation of what happened and submit supporting documentation. These things have to run their course. Ultimately you will have to reach a payment agreement regarding the credit card debts. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 7, 2011 at 4:08pm
|
|
|
|
I was denied for an Interim clearance. I am suspecting financial reasons because I know for a fact I have no criminal history. My Financial Problems are as follows.
1. Tax lien (which I paid off shortly after filing)
2. Mortgage co (BAC) showing $18G behind even tho I have receipts to prove that I have only missed 2 maybe 3 payments total..and BAC refused to accept my proof...so awaiting a lawyer.
3. credit card collections - I have never received a letter from the company but it is on my report. I only let it go to collections because they raised my rate from 9.99% to 33% because of what my mortgage showed and refused to settle for the balance owed.
On two of my reports only the house is showing delinquint , which again I have the stubs from cashier checks that prove I paid except when I was out of work for 2 months.
I have called a lawyer and have an appoointment next week.
Any suggestions on how to help get this approved? |
|
|
|
|
MUK (Dayton OH) on July 7, 2011 at 10:40am
|
|
|
|
I just received an offer from a government contracting agency that is contingent upon my receiving a top secret clearance. I have three things that are really worrying me and I was wondering if you could help me understand whether I should expect to be denied the clearance or not.
1. My recent financial history is a mess. I should start off by saying that this all occurred while I was in college which I just graduated from in May. While I was in school I was responsible for a lot of my living expenses and I got a job at a retail store to help keep some money in hand. One semester my parents could not help me as much as before and my hours got cut at work (I was only making 7.38 an hour anyway) and I became delinquent on my credit card. The account was charged off after several months of my inability to pay. When this happened I finally got myself together and called the credit card company and with some family help paid it off. The account was closed afterwards. Since then (and it has only been 6 months) I've had 2 late payments on my American Eagle card but for the last 3 months I've paid it and only have 170 dollars left which I plan to pay with my first paycheck. I have no other debt besides this 170 dollars because I just recently paid off my 6,500 dollar student loans.
2. I have tried marijuana 4 times in my life, the most recent time was July 2010... a year ago. I have not touched it since, do not associate with the people I did it with anymore, and have no desire to ever try it or anything else again.
3. I was fired from a job when I was a senior in high school because I stopped showing up. This was because my house burnt to the ground and I had family obligations that kept me from going in. I have had 3 successful long term jobs since then and I wasn't even 18 when I got fired. |
|
|
|
|
Abbey (NoVa) on July 6, 2011 at 12:46pm
|
|
|
|
Here is my question: I was denied my intrim probably due to being denied for a Top Secert in 2007. I am now awaiting a Secret clearance. My file has been in adjudication since May 3rd. I believe one of the reasons it is still there is because I am in the process of working out a repayment plan with my mortgage company for the months I fell behind while out of work. Q1. Would that be a reason for it to still be in holding? Q2. Can the adjudicators request a copy of my financial workout sheet?
Thank you for your feedback in advance |
|
|
|
|
Anonymous421233 (Manassas Virginia) on July 4, 2011 at 12:36pm
|
|
|
|
Anonymous419655 (MD),
You should list the debt as asked in item 26 and provide details. Where asked about the “Status of Action or Debt” enter something to the effect that you are in compliance with a payment plan. Checks of the IRDS will confirm your payments and you should not have a problem being granted a clearance. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Bowie, MD) on June 30, 2011 at 9:01am
|
|
|
|
P2 (CA),
You should answer the questions to the best of your knowledge as they are posed. Most questions regarding your Financial Record cover the “last 7 years, unless otherwise specified”. Only one asks “have you EVER”. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Bowie, MD) on June 30, 2011 at 8:54am
|
|
|
|
Here's a question that I can't find an answer to.. If I need to fill out a sf 85p or 86 I feel fairly confident there won't be any problems.. however I am wondering about what I should/should not include.
For example, my credit is completely clean, score around the mid 700's Balances are a little high, but there are zero late payments on anything.
My credit used to suck, I spent alot of time working to clean it up in 07 and 08. Since there is nothing negative showing on my credit report, should I admit to having chargeoffs and collections in the past? 8+ years ago??
I don't want to not include them and look like a liar, but at the same time I don't have info on any of that stuff, (dates, balances, etc) and my credit report doesn't either... help?? |
|
|
|
|
p2 (sacramento ca) on June 28, 2011 at 6:39pm
|
|
|
|
I'm in the process of completing an SF86 for TS periodic reinvestigation. I've been making tax payments to the IRS under an installment payment plan for a tax liability of $6K. Payments have been made as agreed, and I never missed filing a return. How should I report on SF-86 Line 26C which states: Have you failed to pay Federal, state, or other taxes, or to file a tax return, when required by law or ordinance? Thanks! |
|
|
|
|
Anonymous419655 (Abingdon Maryland) on June 25, 2011 at 6:27pm
|
|
|
|
I had many government offers from past. They ask me for filling SF86 for TS/ Security Clearance.. They were going to hire me but stopped from there. I wonder why.. They say that i still owe student loans. I paid off one of two. Now one left to go as $1200. Now everything was screw up due more debts that i try to keep payment on them due lost car as balloon $11,000 and apt as left early based on health reasons. However, they still charge me as one year. I was like great.. it went more $6,000. It means i have $1200 - Student loan as one left, $11,000 as owe SUV as repo, and $6,000 apt. It means i have around 19K debts which I hate mostly. I dont want to have debts. That's why i refuse to apply any credit cards at all due million people got debts cause by it. I avoid it and kept bank card as simple. They kept report that not pay on time. I got pissed off and realize they kept me down and prevent me to get good job. I work so hard for it. If DISA, DOD hired me regardless of my debts from past. I am sure that my debts will be paid off early due high pay. Easy for me to manage with those bills. However, I lost great jobs by chances for DISA - Defense Information System Agency and Dept of Defense as Computer Analyst. I have been try to get jobs for government but not hiring so far. I knew debts got me to no where to near my dream jobs. Now i change my plans are start up my own company and able to earn a lot of money to paid off all debts then i can clear all of it then from there, i hope that i can get TS chance again in the future. Plus i was former DOI as Dept of Interior Civil Employed in Washington,DC. i really miss to work for them. They are very wonderful people. I see more people are screaming to get security clearance, SO they can get high paid salaries. SO they can have nice life and nice house. Only way to get your debt paid off fast is get security clearance but hard.. Security Clearance wont allow anyone else to have debts to work there anyway.. That why it is very hard on million people out there.. |
|
|
|
|
Ricco (washington,dc) on June 25, 2011 at 5:36pm
|
|
|
|
Hello. I was just offered a position that requires a TS /w poly level clearance. Based on my financial situation as noted below I wanted to inquire on what my chances, if any, may be.
My financial snapshot is a bit disheartening as my husband was previously unemployed for over a year and we also suffered some recent blows from health related expenses.
Snapshot:
2 student loans w/ default status - one of them I have recently completed the rehabilitation process and the other I have just started a payment plan for.
1 collection account - currently in dispute with all three bureaus in terms of amount owed but will set a payment arrangement to clear remaining total.
2 charge-offs accounts - one already on a payment plan and the other pending account update with creditor (creditor confirms this as well)
1 account 90 days delinquent - mortgage account already in modification process with lender and making 'catch-ups' payments in the meantime.
With both my husband and I gainfully employed as of this month, will my willingness to recent ability to pay these debts be enough to keep my employment offer on the table?
Thanks in advance for your response. |
|
|
|
|
KB (Texas) on June 21, 2011 at 2:39am
|
|
|
|
Rule of thumb,,,, rich clearance granted. Poor, no luck. The government will give a rich doctor a clearance so he can shoot up Fort hood but a college graduate who lost his job and defaulted on his STUDENT loans with a wife who has cancer, no luck. I am an Eagle Scout who set up a payment plans (once I landed a job that requires a clearance) and was granted an interim. Well guess what, I have to much debt, so now i have to wait for a final determination. Ohh, I can’t work until i get it so guess what I get to on my damn payment plans. Rich get richer and poor get poorer. I will get denied because of the retards who get money for denying people. Give rich doctors clearances so they shoot our soldiers. Maybe if I had rich parents who paid for my college like the ones who decided to withdraw it. |
|
|
|
|
Jeremiah P (Wichita KS) on June 16, 2011 at 12:26am
|
|
|
|
Tara (Virginia):
There's no reason to be concerned if its the only negative item in your credit report. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on June 15, 2011 at 5:59pm
|
|
|
|
An investigator came today for a public trust investigation (weird), anyway she brought up a Salle Mae loan that is current that defaulted years ago and made me sign an affidavit about it - should be worried about this? |
|
|
|
|
Tara (Virginia) on June 15, 2011 at 2:43pm
|
|
|
|
SAS (Virginia):
Within DOD, an ADP-II is considered a non-critical sensitive position and is handled the same as a Secret clearance. A bankruptcy may or may not result in the revocation of this type of “clearance.” Merely saying that your financial problems arose from your separation from your spouse is not enough to mitigate this problem. You will have to be much more specific than that when answering a Written Interrogatory or SOR from DOHA. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on June 10, 2011 at 11:20am
|
|
|
|
Ken (Maine):
No, it will not affect your future clearance eligibility. But I don't recommend that the two of you ignore this debt indefinitely. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on June 10, 2011 at 11:12am
|
|
|
|
Stantheman (Travis AFB),
In my opinion, your chances are good to be granted a Secret clearance. Your credit score is irrelevant. The investigators do not obtain the score when they pull your credit report and the adjudicators never see the score. What is important is the current status of your debts when the credit report is pulled and your credit history in general, as well as your honesty when completing the SF 86/eQIP. If your accounts are current/paid/up to date/etc, your finances will not be an issue. The other incidents from 2003/2004 are too old to be a factor. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Bowie, MD) on June 9, 2011 at 9:11am
|
|
|
|
I current have an active ADP-II with a defense contracting company. Due to a separation from my spouse and not being able to maintain the finances I am considering filing bankruptcy. Will my ADP-II be revoked. If it is revoked how long will it be before I am able to apply for a clearance and receive a favorably determination. Thank you! |
|
|
|
|
SAS (Virginia) on June 8, 2011 at 1:04pm
|
|
|
|
I have great credit and currently have a Top Secret clearance. I am engaged to someone who is $35k in debt, most of which is an unpaid student loan that she has defaulted on. If we get married, will her financial problems affect my Top Secret clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Ken (Maine) on June 8, 2011 at 12:47pm
|
|
|
|
Hey, looking for an opinion on my chances of getting a clearance. I'm army and my MOS doesn't require a secret level security clearance but my current duty assignment does require that I have one so they are initiating my investigation. I want to know what my chances are of obtaining one.
My credit score right now is 606. I was weighed down by student load debt and a credit card -both of which I was frequently behind on. When I finally recieved my sign-on bonus a while back, I used it all to pay off all my credit card debt, any outstanding bills, and get current on my student loans. Since then, I have been completely on-time and current with payments. I believe my credit score went from like 520something to 606 in a couple of months and I'm doing everything I can to get it up more.
I currently have about 20k in debt (all student loans and my car). Since buying my vehicle, I've never missed a payment on it.
Also, In 2003 and 2004 I recieved summary offenses for 2 underage drinking incidents during my freshman and sophomore years of college. I recieved a disorderly conduct with one of the underages for trying leave the scene. All were summary offenses. I paid the fines and that was it.
This was 7 and 8 years ago. Since then, I have been in no trouble of any kind and since enlisting, I've had no UJMC actions against me.
What do you think my realistic chances are of obtaining a secret level security clearance?
thanks |
|
|
|
|
stantheman (Travis AFB) on June 8, 2011 at 10:13am
|
|
|
|
CURIOUS (FLORIDA):
It’s my understanding that all investigations for Navy Public Trust and CAC determinations are routed to DONCAF. If the investigation contains any unfavorable information, DONCAF doesn’t make a decision on the case. Instead it passes the investigation to the local Navy command’s HR or security office for a decision. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 29, 2011 at 10:34am
William Henderson on May 29, 2011 at 10:10am
|
|
|
|
Please tell me if you are working already for a Dod facility and a no determinations is reported on the security clearance, does that immediately mean you are fired or can you continue to work while it is appeal? |
|
|
|
|
peaches ( California) on May 28, 2011 at 9:17am
|
|
|
|
CURRENTLY EMPLOYED BY DON, CONTRACTOR NHBC SINCE 1998. RECENTLY MY PUBLIC TRUST CAME BACK NO-DETERMINATION. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? IVE REQUESTED
INFORMATION FROM NCIS AND THEY REQUESTED INFO. FROM DONCAF AND THE LETTER I RECIEVED SAYS NEGATIVE RESULTS FROM DONCAF; NCIS SAYS NOTHING IN THEIR RECORDS CALLS FOR AN NCIS INVESTIGATION. MT CAC EXPIRES 5/31/2011 |
|
|
|
|
CURIOUS (FLORIDA) on May 26, 2011 at 10:09am
|
|
|
|
I am applying for a Secret Clearance. I want to join Army Special Forces and am required to have a Secret Clearance. I joined the Army in 2009. I got divorced in 2008 and left with a substantial mortgage and a mound of credit card debt. The mortgage payments were $3500 per month and I now only gross $2000 per month and live in government provided billetting. The mortgage payments have not been made since October of 2008 and on my credit report it shows "foreclosure initiated". My credit card debt was around $40K and I have managed to pay that down to $20K in just over two years. The mortgage delinquency is the only negative mark on my credit report. Do I have a chance of getting a Secret Clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Jason (GA) on May 26, 2011 at 9:03am
|
|
|
|
My husband has accepted a new position with a computer call center out here in Oklahoma. They are having him fill out paperwork for a security clearance, apparently this is a contract job through a major computer firm to the government. They are requesting a Secret clearance. Now before I married him he acquired a $8K student loan, that he has never paid on except for the federal income tax that goes to it every year. Will this affect his ability to get a Secret Clearance? |
|
|
|
|
HB (Oklahoma) on May 25, 2011 at 12:30pm
|
|
|
|
I was honorably discharged from the IRR in 2007, 4 days later I get caught in a sting purchasing alcohol for a minor, there was also marijuana in the vehicle I was driving. I never went to court, but got a letter from the DA stating I could do a diversion course, did it, now I am back in the navy as a reservist. My recruiter never ran a clearance on me, now 1 month after being sworn in, I have to submit a sf86, I WILL admit my discretions on the SF86, my question is: If denied for interim, or denied outright, will my chain of command see the reason?
Also, I understand the SF86 will be reviewed before being submitted. I wonder if omitting something like that would get me in trouble. I have the print out saying charges were never even filed.
Worried,
Mike |
|
|
|
|
Mike (California) on May 24, 2011 at 9:25am
|
|
|
|
I have an Active Secret which was just picked back up by my company 9 months ago. I recently got a promotion to a job which requires a TS. I had a few small medical bills and a few smaller accounts not even totaling 1000 all together But they were in collections. Due to going to school and lack of income, moving and having a baby etc I have let those go . After getting this promotion I was able to afford to take care of all the debts listed on my credit report and have the documentation to bring to the investigator to show these accounts paid in full. I have 0 Debt on my report and a 620 score. Do you see anything that would stop me from getting the TS? This is the dream job that I have always wanted and what I went to school for 5 years to be able to do. I will be devastated if a few debts would stop me from this dream, Your thoughts?
Thank you, |
|
|
|
|
BMS (San Diego) on May 19, 2011 at 10:10pm
|
|
|
|
My husband was just promoted a new AGR position within the Army National Guard where he will need a Secret clearance. I am very concerned that he will not be granted a clearance due to financial problems and may lose the job, which he has worked so hard to get.
Here's a bit about our situation:
I was laid off a few months after we got married (in 2007) and a few weeks later, my husband lost his job as well. At that time we moved to a new place to save on rent, sold one of our cars and did other things to save as much money as possible, but ultimately had to use our credit cards to get by and racked up a large amount of debt (primarily in my name). We are working slowly to make payment arrangements with the debt collectors but these arrangements won't appear on our credit reports until the debts are paid off in two years or so. We have also hired a lawyer to help negotiate our debts and create payments plans. When filling out his paperwork, my husband did not include that our debt was incurred due to unemployment but only said that we hired a lawyer to help. Will this be considered when determining his eligibility?
We have never missed rent or any car payment and he has a completed car loan from a few years ago. We also opened a small credit card account (per our lawyer's advice) for him and are making payment in full to help build up his credit. I have student loans which I never missed a payment on and a few other credit card accounts that have always been current, but the ones that we needed to live off of back in 2007 (totalling around $20k in my name) that spiraled out of control have totally ruined our lives.
Will the debt in my name affect his chances of getting a Secret clearance? Will he have the opportunity to explain how this debt was incurred and our plans for repayment?
Any help is greatly appreciated!! |
|
|
|
|
MO (Baltimore, MD) on May 15, 2011 at 2:01pm
|
|
|
|
Byrd (Oklahoma):
You are obligated to self-report your financial situation to your FSO. Be sure to document this. Your FSO will submit an “incident report.” It’s then up to DISCO/DOHA to decide what action they want to take. Your clearance could be suspended. They may initiate a limited investigation and/or send you written interrogatories. If the results of these actions fail to mitigate the security concerns, they could send you an SOR, which is the first step toward possibly revoking your clearance. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 14, 2011 at 6:37pm
|
|
|
|
Anonymous (orlando, fl): If you left DOD more than 2 years ago, your clearance is not reinstateable. Federal agencies are not required to reinstate or reciprocally accept when a potential disqualifying condition exist as it does in your case. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 14, 2011 at 11:14am
|
|
|
|
W (Mississippi): Inability or unwillingness to pay debts is a potentially disqualifying condition for a security clearance. How your unpaid debts will be viewed depends on what you tried to do to pay them. Did you try to increase your income (i.e. a second job)? Did you attempt to work out a long term payment plan with small monthly payments? Did you ignore the debts? Do you have a plan for paying them off? |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 14, 2011 at 11:09am
|
|
|
|
AK (Arlington, VA):
Unless he has become significantly delinquent in paying his debts, he is not required to self-report his financial situation to his security manager. The amount of debt a person can handle is relative to their income. If this person is your friend and you are concerned, I think it would be better if you talked to him and suggest he go to an agency like Army Community Services, Fleet and Family Services, etc., where they provide financial counseling. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 14, 2011 at 10:57am
|
|
|
|
We are currently going through a transition period from one contractor to another, after losing the contract. I've received an offer from the new contractor. I currently have a secret clearance and have had it since 2004. We just recently had two children and have been unable to pay our credit card/signature loans. We have decided to file bankruptcy and go to court next week. How will this affect my clearance? Will it affect it immediately or will I not know anything until I go to renew it in 2014? Do you believe I will lose my clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Byrd (Oklahoma) on May 14, 2011 at 10:00am
|
|
|
|
Hi, I left the DOD last year to start a business venture w/ my husband. Held a DOD security clearance for 5 years before leaving. Had A+ credit.
Had an unexpected pregnancy, was very sick and prevented both my husband and I from working. He was awaiting a large VA disability award which still hasnt came. Ended up losing my house to short sale, car and have credit cards which I have been unable to pay. So my credit has went to crap :0)..to be nice. Didn't file bankruptcy because I felt that was wrong and it is still my responsibility to repay the debt. Just have had no extra to pay any of it.
I'm looking at going back into DOD on reinstatement. What are my chances to get the clearance reinstated?
|
|
|
|
|
Anonymous (orlando, fl) on May 12, 2011 at 11:45am
|
|
|
|
I unexpectedly incurred some medical bills as a result of emergency medical care, i.e., an ambulance ride and emergency room expenses. They turned out to be in excess of $1000 and $5000, respectively. It hurt to be hit with such expenses virtually overnight. That was three years ago. I was a starving graduate student at the time and certainly didn't have the money. I am recently graduated and still looking for my first job. The accounts have been referred to collection agencies and remain unpaid. How will investigators view these? Thank you. |
|
|
|
|
W (Mississippi) on May 12, 2011 at 8:17am
|
|
|
|
We have a friend in the military who works extensively with foreign nationals.
He and his wife have a tremendous amount of Credit Card debt. (Around $20K and growing). I don't beleive he's a national security threat - but I'd like a 'security manager' to talk to him and let him know that he could be putting his clearance at risk. Is there a way to 'report' him and his debt so that someone speaks to him and 'gets his attention' without actually getting him in trouble with his chain-of-command? |
|
|
|
|
AK (Arlington, VA) on May 12, 2011 at 8:16am
|
|
|
|
My wife and I started a business in 2008 that failed after 13 months of operation. We incurred a number of business debts greater than 180 days delinquent from various retail vendors but we were not personal guarantors on any of those accounts. We have recently paid them back. Should we list those debts in section 26, part m, of the SF-86 even though we were not personal guarantors? |
|
|
|
|
Gary C (Herndon VA) on May 9, 2011 at 9:34pm
|
|
|
|
Ok...another credit report question:
I just noticed that some of my closed accounts are listed as "Closed by account grantor"
There were all paid off years ago. Some of them had 60 days late seven years ago.
Will this hurt me? |
|
|
|
|
Quark (MD) on May 9, 2011 at 3:43am
|
|
|
|
Question:
When a NAC is done, presumably the treasury department (IRS) is pinged regarding taxes. How many years back do they search? If I've had issues with filing and/or payments, but they are further in the past than NAC search, should I disclose them on the SF86?
Same question with respect to state taxes?
Finally, I just discovered on one of my credit reports that I have a $20 (twenty dollar) "charge off" from 2007. Despite the fact that I don't recognize the debt of the account, I will pay it off. However, how should I handle this on my SF86 and will it affect me getting a clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Quark (MD) on May 8, 2011 at 7:02pm
|
|
|
|
JH:
Four years seems like a long time to still be working on old delinquent debts, but if your efforts have been reasonable in the context of your ability and you no longer have any delinquent debts at the time your husband reapplies for a clearance, he has a reasonable chance of being granted a clearance. The misdemeanor arrest really isn’t very significant. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 7, 2011 at 12:45am
|
|
|
|
Anonymous406126 (Bakersfield California):
Your situation should not have resulted in a clearance revocation. However, your explanation of what happened with your husband’s clearance makes absolutely no sense to me, especially the part about being offered a chance to reapply for a clearance because of reenlistment. All NCOs must hold or be eligible for a Secret clearance, otherwise a bar to reenlistment is usually placed in their personnel file. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 7, 2011 at 12:34am
|
|
|
|
Rachel (NC):
I assume your spouse maintains a Secret clearance because of his affiliation with the National Guard. He has a responsibility to report to his NG security manager the foreclosure and other delinquencies. Keeping his clearance in the face of your ongoing financial problem will depend on how the two of you resolve your delinquent debt. That is a financial problem that I am not qualified to address. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 7, 2011 at 12:15am
|
|
|
|
TC (Oklahoma):
If you incurred the debt before you married and did not add to it since marriage, I don’t think it should affect your spouse’s clearance eligibility. A bankruptcy per se will not be an issue. It’s the inability or unwillingness to pay debts that may be an issue. Bankruptcy is only evidence of inability to pay debts. I recall one case where an uncleared spouse maintained separate credit accounts and the couple maxed out all of those accounts but paid as agreed on the cleared spouse’s accounts. The uncleared spouse then did a chapter 7 bankruptcy. Because purchases made on the uncleared spouse’s credit card account were made for the benefit of the couple, the cleared spouse was considered equally responsible for the debt by the clearance adjudicator and lost his clearance. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 7, 2011 at 12:04am
|
|
|
|
Hello! I have a few question involving my husband's security clearance. He was granted a Secret clearance back in 2004 before he deployed to Iraq with the National Guard. About a year or so later he had a deliquent credit card. After we met and got married we got a card, a personal loan and a house in both or our names. Everything was going well until he got layed off in 2008. It took him close to 6 months to find another job. During that time we lost our home and went delinquent on the things that were in both our names. The job he finally got was one that required a clearance. I now stay home to take care of our two small chikdren and he makes just enough for us to pay rent, other necessities and buy groceries, so we have not been able to afford to start paying back any of the debt. My question is, what can we do to help his chances of his secret clearance being renewed in 2014 so he can stay in the field he is in? |
|
|
|
|
Rachel (NC) on May 6, 2011 at 9:51am
|
|
|
|
My Question is this: my husband is Active duty and had a security clearance and is now serving on recruiting duty. While on recruiting his clearance needed renewing and was denied because we were past due 2 payments on our mortgage - the reason for this delinquency was the fact that we pcs'd out of our primary home and struggled to maintain a rent in our new home and a mortgage. well - NOW we pay the mortgage but have a past due balance still, I called the mortgage company and got a 'repayment' plan. they said it will not say past due on our credit report any longer but it will say late payment. He is being the offered the chance to apply for his security clearance again because he is up for reenlistment. There are no other bad debts. how will this effect him? will just being 'late' hurt his clearance if there is no listed 'past due' balance?? |
|
|
|
|
Anonymous406126 (Bakersfield California) on May 5, 2011 at 1:38pm
|
|
|
|
Correction to my comment - he held a TS for 15 years, not a Secret. |
|
|
|
|
JH on May 5, 2011 at 8:05am
|
|
|
|
If anyone can offer insight into this situation, I would appreciate it:
Background - My husband held a Secret Clearance for 15 years, no issues. He then got a civilian job which did not require a clearance. A couple of years later, he was hired for a government contract which once again required a Secret. He was not granted the interim, and after a full investigation he was ultimately denied (this was 2005) due to financial considerations. At that time, we had some debts that were 90-180 days late. We were in financial trouble due to a spell of unemployment and had significant debt. He also had unpaid alimony from a divorce that happened in 2000. In 2007, we got our debt and budget under control. We paid out most of our debt, and worked on getting validation of a few debts that were in collection. We were unable to get validation on a few debts even after contacting the collection agencies repeatedly. We have since disputed those debts on our credit report and they were removed. We are also in the process of coming to an agreement regarding the unpaid alimony. We have or are addressing every debt we owed and are almost debt free including a judgement that we paid off recently.
The only other complicating factor is he had an arrest a few years ago but no conviction. What had happened was that we owed a debt to a company. We wrote out 3 checks to the company in 2006, one to be deposited per month until the debt was satisfied (this is how they wanted to do it). That same week, we found that they had deposited all 3 checks, which overdrew our account. We were then unable to pay. They would not work with us, so we attempted to work out a payment plan with their lawyer who was collecting on the debt. While in the midst of working out a payment plan, we were horrified to find out that he had a warrant out for passing bad checks due to this incident. He was released that same day on bond, and the debt was paid before we even reached the court date. No conviction, of course and the debt was 100% satisfied. Again, this was a few years ago.
We do not have any new delinquent credit card debt, we pay our rent on time, no new cars etc. In short, we have been financially responsible for the past few years. We do not live above our means.
My husband is thinking about applying for a few jobs that would require a clearance in the next 6 months to a year. The denial was 6 years ago. I know we have no shot at an interim, but do we have a shot at a Secret after a full investigation? |
|
|
|
|
JH on May 4, 2011 at 12:14pm
|
|
|
|
Hi William,
My spouse is currently the one holding onto a TS which is currently being reupdated. I have personally accrued some major debt and found out that since we live in Oklahoma that I can file for bankruptcy on my own. I'm actually still a resident of Wisconsin and he's a resident of Oklahoma. He's never even stepped foot on Wisconsin soil in his life. I've been unemployed for several years and I think part of my inability to find a job is because of my very poor credit score. We have other debt under his name that we've been making sure to keep up on and not default. We even were responsible with our taxes and used them to completely pay off some of our debt. My fear is that if I file for bankruptcy just for me and the debt that is solely under my name, that it will adversely affect my husband's clearance. Thank you for any insight into this query. |
|
|
|
|
TC (Oklahoma) on May 2, 2011 at 10:52pm
|
|
|
|
Bad Investment (Virginia):
You could lose your clearance and it could negatively affect your eligibility for a few years. I believe you’re talking about what some call a strategic default—a euphemism if ever there was one. In other words allowing the bank to suffer the loss, so you can buy another house at lower price and start building positive equity soon after the purchase. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on April 29, 2011 at 3:08am
|
|
|
|
Baby:
It depends on how consistent you’ve been in making payments recently. It also depends on how many delinquent accounts you have. And it depends on a multitude of factors surrounding the foreclosure. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on April 29, 2011 at 2:56am
|
|
|
|
I made a bad investment on a house and now am upside down. I already have a clearance and good credit otherwise, but I was thinking of letting go of my house. Would that affect my current clearance and future clearance ability? |
|
|
|
|
Bad Investment (Virginia) on April 27, 2011 at 1:13pm
|
|
|
|
Will I get favorable decison on my clearance if I have 120 days deliquent on my credit due to divorce but now catching up paying it and in a process of of loan modification? If you are a co signer in a house that has been foreclosed will this have big impact on my derogatory side and could result of clearnce denial?
Thank you |
|
|
|
|
Baby on April 25, 2011 at 3:17pm
|
|
|
|
louise (Texas):
Credit scores are not used for security clearance determinations. Being 30 days past due on a few accounts should not result in a security clearance denial or an unfavorable federal employment suitability determination. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on April 22, 2011 at 9:49pm
|
|
|
|
Tim:
Probably not, since your mortgage is now being paid as agreed. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on April 22, 2011 at 9:46pm
|
|
|
|
AnonKS (Tennessee):
Probably not. High debt to income ratio rarely becomes an issue unless there as been delinquent debt. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on April 22, 2011 at 9:38pm
|
|
|
|
I am wondering if I have a 630 credit score due to debt and some 30-day late payments will I be able to be hired with the government? I am a teacher who is losing my job due to budget and a veteran trying to get back into the government and the jobs require a security clearance - other than that my background investigation should be good. |
|
|
|
|
louise (Texas) on April 22, 2011 at 8:42am
|
|
|
|
William,
I was recently hired back to a previous employer (DOE LAB) for a position that will require a Q clearance. I had a Q in the past but the investigation is not current (original was in 2002). My question is about a home loan modification that was successfully completed this January 2011. It took two years for the modification to come through during which I was over 18 months late on the payments. Will this hurt or ruin my chances of obtaining a clearance? I have no other issues with my credit or late payments. No credit card debt and a 6k signature loan which I have been paying on the past two years without issue.
Thanks in advance for any assistance. |
|
|
|
|
Tim on April 20, 2011 at 8:33pm
|
|
|
|
Willam,
Thanks for your quick response, You are right!
-How about if I leave the job before the 5 years which is 1.5 year from today? Do you think this way I can have the door open after foreclosure was removed for future instead of going through too much pain?
-Do you know if it is 5 years from interim or from final secret clerance date?
- Do you know when they would start using the Continuous Evaluation ARC software?
Any Help would be appreciated.
DS(AZ) |
|
|
|
|
DS(AZ) (AZ) on April 17, 2011 at 7:48pm
|
|
|
|
I have been employed continuously by the site contractor of a DOE laboratory for 16 years in a position that required no security clearance. I will be interviewing next week for a position at the same facility that requires the applicant to either have or be able to obtain a Q clearance. Going back 10 years (and beyond), I have no delinquent debts, no bad debts, no late payments, etc. I have no real assets, such as a home or a savings account. I have built up a sizable retirement account though. I do, however, carry a high debt load -- minimum payments on consumer credit is 30% of net monthly income. I have had credit lines reduced in the past two years, citing a number of factors including age of revolving debt, high debt in relation to credit limits, number of revolving accounts, and total revolving debt balances. Is this going to be an issue for obtaining an interim clearance, and ultimately a final clearance? |
|
|
|
|
AnonKS (Tennessee) on April 16, 2011 at 12:59am
|
|
|
|
Panic – Girl:
Your situation is too complicated to offer an opinion without knowing all the details. For me, a thorough review of your case is beyond the scope of this type of forum. If you failed to report your financial problems to your current security officer, you should do so. Failure to self-report potentially disqualifying conditions only aggravates the problem. For federal employment, a security investigation is usually evaluated for employment suitability before it is is evaluated for a security clearance. If you are denied employment because you are found unsuitable or if you are denied a security clearance, this information can be provided to the government office (DISCO) that issued your current clearance and it can result in clearance revocation by them. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on April 15, 2011 at 4:36pm
|
|
|
|
SB (SC): Poor, unless you have some very good reasons for these financial problems. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on April 15, 2011 at 4:22pm
|
|
|
|
Hello!.
I have few questions If some some could give me a clear view what my chance of getting an ANACI Secret Clearance.
I have a clearance ( NACLAC) active as of now. Now I was offered a government position and needed a ANACI Secret Clearance. My dilemma now is I'm in a process of my SF86 and on section 26 ( Financial) I've answered with Yes due to the following:
1.I have 120 days over deliquent debt (Mortgage) due to divorce and this was settled two years ago under loan modification and my 2nd loan is still under review and it's taking so long for this modification I'm behind on this loan too about 6k but I started paying it now since my financial situation is getting better. I hired a law firm to do my modification and they are the ones working with my lender for modification.
2.During my divorce my ex foreclosed one of our houses that he is living in. But on my final divorce decree my ex agreed that he is sole responsible on the house that he foreclosed. If the lender does come back for any deficency he is responsible for that.
3. Now I ordered my credit report and found out that the second mortgage on the house that my ex foreclosed is showing not settled and deliquent of almost 67K.
4. Last we have another house that became deliquent while we are in a process of divorce. Finally I had this house sold in short sale and both mortgages were setled in full in a less amount and it is showing on my credit report it was deliquent but settled for less amount.
This is my scenario of my worries. The investigation is in process already. My interim was put on hold until further investigation for final adjucation or full investigation.
Will I be granted ANACI secret clerarance or not? IF denied, will my other (NACLAC) will be terminated or cancelled? Just like others here I'm trying to meet ends and do the best I can. Some circumtances are beyong my control.
Thank you. GOD BLESS!!! |
|
|
|
|
Panic - Girl on April 15, 2011 at 8:17am
|
|
|
|
Will need a secret security clearance for job applied for. What are my chances of being granted a clearance?
Here is a snapshot of my situation:
I have a dismissed bankruptcy from 2003-now over 7 years old
I have a 2005 judgement from a credit card debt of $4400 that I have just recently began a payment plan for.
I have a lien that was placed on my property in 2008 for unpaid homeowner association dues that were just paid April 2010.
I have a mortgage, car payment, student loan, credit cards and they are all current and have been for over 5 years.
No other unpaid delinquent debt, no criminal record
Thanks |
|
|
|
|
SB (SC) on April 8, 2011 at 11:12am
|
|
|
|
worrywart (new york):
Not all agencies consider interim clearances for all positions. I think you have a good chance of getting a final TS clearance, but interim clearances are much more difficult to obtain. You should also read my article on Employment Suitability Versus Security Clearance. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 31, 2011 at 10:19pm
|
|
|
|
Oh so Confused (GA):
Since you already have a DOD Secret clearance, you should not even be considered for an interim clearance by the Army. They must either accept the DISCO clearance or not. So, I doubt you were denied an interim Secret clearance. However, you must be investigated for employment suitability. Your NACLC is not good enough for this purpose. You must either undergo an NACI or an ANACI, which will be adjudicated by the servicing HR office. I suspect the servicing HR office wants to see your investigative file and/or a completed NACI before they bring you on board. For security clearance purpose DOD is one agency even though there are 10 Central Adjudication Facilities. Army must accept an active clearance from DISCO unless there is new evidence of a disqualifying condition. See my article on Employment Suitability Versus Security Clearance. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 31, 2011 at 10:12pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I received a conditional offer for a job with the DOJ requiring Top Secret Clearance. I am currently filling out my SF86 in preparation for my suitability determination. I currently have approximately $4,000 in credit card debt, which I pay on time and have been paying down steadily. I also have $50,000 in student loans, which I have always paid on time.
The problem is that I have previously had delinquent debt. When I graduated from college, almost 10 years ago, I accrued a lot of debt due to financial irresponsibility, and had a credit card closed by the grantor. I paid that off about 4 years ago. I also had a credit card that went into collections about 4 years ago, for $7000, which I paid off immediately. About 3 years ago I had a phone bill go into collections for $40 because I did not get the final bill after I changed phone providers. I paid that immediately as well. None of these collections accounts appear on my credit report.
In 2008 I received a notice that I owed taxes to New York State because my accountant claimed a credit to which I was not entitled. I paid the taxes back within 60 days.
Since 2007 I have been current on my accounts and have eliminated a lot of my debt. I have never been late on a federal loan payment and my credit has significantly improved.
Do you think I will have difficulty in getting interim or final clearance? |
|
|
|
|
worrywart (new york) on March 31, 2011 at 3:06pm
|
|
|
|
Recently I was denied an interim secret clearance for a Department of Defense (Army) civilian job. I have a current secret clearance issued by DISCO due to being an Army contractor. My offer has been put on hold or pretty much taken away from me due to not being able to get a interim secret clearance; the email did not mention anything about suitability.
I had a chapter 7 bankruptcy discharged back in 2006 and have not had any debt problems since. I have already been adjudicated for this issue in my most recent secret clearance,NACLC investigation date is 8/12/2010 with a clearance date of 8/17/2010. I explained in detail on my new SF86 such as I did with previous clearance, which I was able to receive an interim until my final clearance date.
Nothing in my background has changed as I continue to pay everything on time. The security officer stated since I had a positive answer listed on my SF86, the command decided not to grant me an interim.
My question is why would they deny me an interim if my bankruptcy has already been adjudicated in a recent investigation? The only difference between ANACI and NACLC is inquires will be sent out. The SO stated that he would expedite and continue to run my clearance because he feels that I will receive a secret clearance in the end. I'm confused, could you clarify why my interim would be denied if this issue has already been investigated and adjudicated? |
|
|
|
|
Oh so Confused (GA) on March 27, 2011 at 8:10pm
|
|
|
|
What if they don't grant me an interim clearance based off of the SF-86, can I appeal it or something? |
|
|
|
|
WTM (las cruces) on March 22, 2011 at 12:37pm
|
|
|
|
DS (AZ):
Your security clearance lawyer hasn’t been paying attention to the changes that are taking place regarding security clearance standards. Within the next 2 or 3 years (perhaps earlier) the interval for periodic reinvestigations will change. Instead of once every 10 years for a secret clearance, it will be at least once during a 5 year period.
Your obligation to report your “inability to satisfy debts” now falls into a gray area. Without knowing the details and the laws in your state, I cannot comment on your situation. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 21, 2011 at 6:06pm
|
|
|
|
WTM (New Mexico):
It’s because an interim clearance decision is based primarily on a review of the clearance application form and a final clearance is based on a review of the completed investigation, which has much more information than just the application form. The completed investigation will have the credit report, possibly record reviews at individual creditors, an interview of the applicant, and other interviews and record checks that provide a more complete picture of your honest and reliability. All you can do is submit a detailed explanation in the SF86 of what happened and what you did to correct the situation. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 21, 2011 at 5:50pm
|
|
|
|
Mike (Florida):
Everyone is investigated before a final security clearance can be granted. I’m guessing that you were granted an interim Secret clearance shortly after you submitted your SF86 via eQIP and now the interim clearance has been withdrawn because your bankruptcy showed up on the credit report that was obtained as part of your investigation for the Secret clearance. If this is the case, you will have to wait until the investigation is completed and your case is adjudicated for a final secret clearance. If your offer of employment was conditioned on the receipt of an interim clearance, I don’t think you will be hired. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 21, 2011 at 5:38pm
|
|
|
|
Joel Rodriguez (Atlanta GA.):
It depends on why the accounts were delinquent, how long they were delinquent, and how much money was owed. The government is interested in your reliability and honesty. If you only paid off these account to facility getting a security clearance, it will be pretty obvious to everyone and there will be no reason to believe you won’t default on future debts once you get a clearance. On the other hand, if the debts were due to major medical expenses or similar problems and you made efforts to pay them but were unable because you were just barely scraping by, then you have a better chance of getting a clearance. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 21, 2011 at 5:29pm
|
|
|
|
Dear Will,
In mid-2007 due to economic down term I lost my job and put my house for sale in Arizona. After six month of no luck of finding job I went to graduate school and found a part time job with Federal contractor which I had to relocate. I got my interim Secret Clearance (SC) and 4 months later the Final clearance, during this time(in mid 2008) my house price went down from 400k to 200K and I had a hard time paying a (new location) rent and my mortgage.
I talked with a Real Estate lawyer he suggested to modify the loan and I did but no luck. I was still making the payment and current. Two months after I got my final secret clearance the employer told me that they do not have work for me and I should leave, but they will let me know in 6 months if they have work or not, so I was lucky that I was still in school and had a little money to pay the rent and my family needs. I talked with a Real estate lawyer again since I could not pay the mortgage anymore he suggested to short sale the house and I found a realtor to help me with the short sale. After 5 months of talking to the bank at the last minute the PMI required a $50K promissary note from me.
The real estate lawyer suggested to foreclosure since I did not have the money. One month after the foreclosure I found a part time job with the same employer which required SC but in a different area, I talked with the Security Lawyer after foreclosure, as well, he suggested that since there is no debt after Foreclosure and the account is closed I should not report the situation to the Security officer and he mentioned that by the time for the next clearance review the foreclosure would be removed from my credit report.
Per his suggestion I did not report and right now it`s been 2.5 year from that time and I am working full time for the past 10 months. This was my only house and I've never been late on anything.
What do you think? Was the lawyer right? Also on the 1099 I received from the bank after the foreclosure it mentioned that I not liable for the repayment of loan. Any suggestion would be appreciated. |
|
|
|
|
DS (AZ) on March 15, 2011 at 1:11pm
|
|
|
|
WTM (New Mexico):
"If you’ve been paying all other accounts as agreed and there have been no other financial problems, you should be okay for a final secret clearance. Getting an interim secret clearance may be a problem."
---I have always made my car payment , and my student loan payments on time, which are my only other bills. I recently got accepted for a credit card with a small credit limit to help rebuild my credit and all payments are made ontime (before the due date). You mentioned I may have trouble getting an interim clearance; Why is that, and is there any way to be proactive? I have all the documentation together regarding the two accounts that were deliquent and now paid off, including letters from the collectors stating they are satisfied in full/PIF, and bank statements showing the payment wasdrafted. Should this be enough?!
THANKS! |
|
|
|
|
WTM (New Mexico) on March 15, 2011 at 9:43am
|
|
|
|
Maybe someone can help. I have been offered a position with the Federal Government in Afghanistan. I have never worked for them. Over the past few years I have been unemployed off and on. (As we know the Florida market). I thought that I had interim clearance and have been going through all the paperwork, e-Qip, etc. We made a mistake and filed chapter 7 last week and found out that now my clearance is on hold pending an investigation. My question is will I get to go or is this the end of a long process? If anyone knows let me know what I can do to go and not prolong this any longer. |
|
|
|
|
Mike (Florida) on March 15, 2011 at 8:12am
|
|
|
|
I have a mortage, second mortage and car note that are all paid on time never late, but I have five accounts (three were Charge offs)(two collections) and they are all paid or settled recently with a zero balance. Will I get rejected for a secret clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Joel Rodriguez (Atlanta GA.) on March 14, 2011 at 3:17pm
|
|
|
|
WTM (New Mexico):
If you’ve been paying all other accounts as agreed and there have been no other financial problems, you should be okay for a final secret clearance. Getting an interim secret clearance may be a problem. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 11, 2011 at 3:43pm
|
|
|
|
BM (Glendale):
Just proof that your “working on it” will not be sufficient. You will need to show consistent, uninterrupted, efforts to repay the debt. Unless your total debt 2 years ago was 3 or 4 times greater than it is today, the efforts you have made up to this point may not be enough. When you apply for a clearance, your application wil be sent to DOHA for consideration. You will be asked to provide information about your clearance denial from 2 years ago and explain what has changed during the past 2 years. If your explanation warrants reconsideration, the appropriate investigation will be initiated and your application will be treated like a new case. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 9, 2011 at 4:03pm
|
|
|
|
J-Brash (Arkansas):
I believe that ultimately you will receive a security clearance, but it may take a longer than average. You have a poor chance of receiving an interim clearance, but it depends on the agency that handles your clearance application. |
|
|
|
|
Willliam Henderson on March 9, 2011 at 3:50pm
|
|
|
|
A few years ago while in college I maxed out a credit card ($3,000).. I settled for half.. About a year ago, I got a medical credit card to pay off the $500 dental bill, since I was dropped by my parents insurance. I was making the payment, but it became too much since I was unemployed and still in college. I just paid off the account in full today, and wonder if this will be an issue preventing me from obtaining a secret security clearance for a job that I may be offered in the days to come? |
|
|
|
|
WTM (New Mexico) on March 8, 2011 at 5:22pm
|
|
|
|
Hi, I just got offered a contracting job overseas and they said I was going to have to have a security clearance, I was denied a little over 2 years ago due to credit. I have about $ 9,000 in credit debt that is over 7-8 years old. I since then have been working on it and I'm unsure if I should do a debt consilatdation or just work on it myself. I don't want to get denied again so withen I go in for my interview does showing documentation that I'm working on it help my chances? If I got the job I couyld definitely pay it all off!!! What do you think? |
|
|
|
|
BM (Glendale) on March 7, 2011 at 5:19pm
|
|
|
|
I will be interviewing soon for a position that requires I pass a U.S. Government Security Clearance Background Investigation. I had a high level clearance while in the military, but have since been honorably discharged. I had to file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2009 due to my ex husbands over spending. I also have less than $1000 of debt currently (most are medical bills that were disputed in the divorce, but that I have been making payments on or paid off completely). Given this information, should I have any reason to believe I may be denied this position based on the outcome of the investigation? |
|
|
|
|
J-Brash (Arkansas) on March 2, 2011 at 10:24pm
|
|
|
|
PJ (KUWAIT):
You can not rebut or appeal the “declination” of an interim clearance. An interim clearance is a temporary clearance granted until the final clearance decision is made. You will have to wait for the final clearance decision, and then if you are denied a clearance you can rebut and later appeal if necessary. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 1, 2011 at 8:53pm
|
|
|
|
JS (AL):
Guideline F (Financial Considerations) of the Adjudicative Guidelines lists the following mitigating condition at paragraph 20(e): “the individual has a reasonable basis to dispute the legitimacy of the past-due debt which is the cause of the problem and provides documented proof to substantiate the basis of the dispute or provides evidence of actions to resolve the issue” |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 1, 2011 at 8:48pm
|
|
|
|
I have an interim Secret clearance that was granted just a week or so ago after I started working for a federal contractor. The only issue I can see on my SF86 that could affect my clearance is a credit card debt that has been unpaid since mid-2007, shortly after I discovered that my credit card had been used by an unauthorized user (probably stolen when my card was left behind for a short while at a gas station). The credit card company gave me information regarding my previous report of a lost/stolen card when I first reported the unauthorized use, then later said that they had no record of this report. Of course, I have copies of my notes.
Due to the facts that I did not authorize the charges, the credit card company and the service provider did not do a simple verification of my phone number, etc., to verify that I was the person authorizing the charges, and the dishonest nature of the credit card company, I was advised informally to let them take me to court because the debt is uncollectible.
The amount in dispute is approximately $2300. I recently received a letter from the company offering to accept 40% of this amount as "settlement for the balance". The letter states that "acceptance of the offer will satisfy the debt on this Account". I feel that this is a fair settlement, even though I didn't incur the debt myself. The letter is dated January 26, but says that it expires in 15 days. I received the letter about a week after that deadline had passed, possibly due to weather delays.
Should I contact the company to see if the offer is still valid or will that just open up the case again with them as far as the statute of limitations goes? Could the 'late' delivery be a ploy by the CC company to lure me into opening up the case again?
Will this type of settlement really clear up my credit? (It is the only negative on my reports.) |
|
|
|
|
JS (AL) on February 27, 2011 at 2:25am
|
|
|
|
I was denied my interim 2 months ago because of my Chapter-13 Bankruptcy. My current job now only requires a NAC-I that i currently have. I want to dispute my interim denial because it will be 17 more months til the Ch. 13 is closed. How can i dispute it? Does anyone know the steps? Or should i just stick with what i have? Eventually all these contracting jobs will require at least a SECRET and I wanna be able to get another contracting job no problem. Any insight in the right direction about disputing it would be appreciated. |
|
|
|
|
PJ (KUWAIT) on February 21, 2011 at 9:07am
|
|
|
|
We filed chapter 13 to deal with back taxes from when we were self-employed and did not pay estimated taxes on time. We filed our returns each year and were on a payment plan to pay the back taxes. At the end of 2009/start of 2010, we realized we were in over heads, and hired a tax atty to help resolve the tax issue. 2nd notice to intent a levy made us realize we would never be able to pay back the taxes so we filed for chapter 13 bankruptcy protection. We are on a 60-month plan and have already made 7 payments on time. We did self-report about 20 days after we filed, however FSO at company did not do anything. We contacted the FSO about a month ago to ask about status and they asked for info on the 13. We believe this has triggered the recent request to submit an updated eqip SF86. We believe this will result in a background investigation. Is the 13 going to be cause us to lose the clearance? |
|
|
|
|
NM (California) on February 19, 2011 at 10:57pm
William Henderson on February 17, 2011 at 4:03pm
|
|
|
|
I am applying for a job with an Agency contracted by the Federal Govt, I am required to get a security clearance. Due to a layoff in 2009 and Foreclosure in 2008- and a very poor income I did not file my taxes for 2 years. I am in the process of filing now in 2010- I am not going to hide this information, but I doubt very much if I should proceed with the application. I have been offered the job and told my prospective employer my situation. I am working with a Tax Professional to resolve the issues and correct on my 2010 return. This job would pay more money, but the past 2 years have been a nightmare much of which was due to the poor finances. |
|
|
|
|
Tony M (dallas) on February 15, 2011 at 2:55pm
|
|
|
|
Hello I interviewed for a job that requires a secret security clearance doing security. I have a student loan that is delinquent due to the fact i was being charge while i was still in school and when I contacted the student load ppl they stated that a creditor has bought the loan. I also owe $200 on a old cell phone bill, $100 on a cable bill, $300 on a credit card, and another $300 on department store card. All of it is about 5 years old and I was wondering what are the chances of me getting a interim clearance thanx. |
|
|
|
|
shaq44 (MD) on February 9, 2011 at 12:03am
|
|
|
|
CeCe Atkins (Ca):
A few incidents involving minor misconduct that happened 12 years will not result in a clearance denial. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on February 8, 2011 at 7:09pm
|
|
|
|
BC (San Diego):
Recommend you go to the website of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (nfcc.org). They may be the oldest (est. 1951) and most reputable network of credit counseling services. The ones that I’ve heard the most about are the ones with names like “Consumer Credit Counseling Service of (location).” I don’t believe they recommend you become delinquent. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on February 8, 2011 at 7:03pm
|
|
|
|
Jon (San Diego):
The recruiter may think that you are qualified for the job, but the government will have to decide whether to reinstate and “continue” your security clearance. If you had an active clearance less than 2 years ago and if your last background investigation is not “out-of-date” your previous clearance can be reinstated. However, you would immediately have to report your bankruptcy to your Facility Security Officer, who would in turn submit an “incident report” to DISCO. How DISCO chooses to handle the “incident report” depends on all the facts surrrounding your bankruptcy. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on February 8, 2011 at 6:40pm
|
|
|
|
Hello! About 12 years ago I had some checks written out which are all paid, and I had a misdemeanor for assualt and battery. It was more like simply assualt an accident occured. But my credit is all paid had some that were diliquent but all paid in full. I was prior service army held a secret clearance about 13 years ago.
I have bA in Business, Master in Accounting.
Would this disqualify me from getting any type of clearances ? Thank you very much! |
|
|
|
|
CeCe Atkins (Ca) on February 6, 2011 at 2:30am
|
|
|
|
Currently have over $60,000.00 in debt, but have been up to date with all payments. Now I am trying to find a program that will help me pay these debt off without affecting my clearance. Most program being offered, have you stop payment and become delinquent, which I am not sure if those are the correct route to go. Could you please advise a route I can take to start getting this behind me? Thanks in advance... |
|
|
|
|
BC (San Diego) on February 4, 2011 at 9:32am
|
|
|
|
I was contacted by a recruiter today for a federal job as a contractor. He had asked if I had filled for bankruptcy. I have recently filled for bankruptcy just a week ago. I have a security clearance w/c is inactive. I had previously worked as a sub contractor to the Navy and Marines. He basically said that I am now qualified for the job because I have filled for bankruptcy (bk chapt 13). My question is, Is he right? though my bankruptcy is chapter 13 w/c I have to pay some debt for a period of time. Please advise? |
|
|
|
|
Jon (San Diego) on January 27, 2011 at 7:05pm
|
|
|
|
SS (Minnesota):
No. Finances rarely become an issue unless the applicant has delinquent debt or displays unexplained affluence. I heard that OPM investigators are now asking about all delinquent debts (not just debts more than 90 days late) during PRSIs. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 24, 2011 at 7:15pm
|
|
|
|
PJ FROM VA (Kuwait):
No you can not dispute or appeal the “declination” of an interim clearance. As soon as your conditional offer of employment was withdrawn the company should have cancelled the clearance request and everything stops. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 24, 2011 at 7:09pm
|
|
|
|
I am applying for a job that requires SSBI clearance. I just found out that I had a tax lien placed against me by the state of Utah. The amount of the lien is only about $300, and it was paid off within a day of learning about it. Otherwise, my credit record is great and I have no non-mortgage debt. Would this be a significant barrier to obtaining clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Anonymous on January 24, 2011 at 5:28pm
|
|
|
|
I am coming up on my DOE Q clearance reinvestigation. Since my previous reinvestigation 5 years ago, we have added to our debt load by a significant amount, mostly because we had children, spouse quit working and we didn't plan accordingly. I have never been late on any payments and we are actively paying down the debt as fast as we can including my spouse working part time. Do you see any concerns with my reinvestigation that I might not keep my clearance? |
|
|
|
|
SS (Minnesota) on January 23, 2011 at 9:53pm
|
|
|
|
Can you dispute an "interim clearance denial?" if so how and where... I'm a contractor overseas and i just put submitted my SF86.. within 2 days i got an email from the company recending my job offer and telling me it was denied. I'm sure that process has stopped or does it keep going? |
|
|
|
|
PJ FROM VA (Kuwait) on January 22, 2011 at 5:35am
|
|
|
|
Navy Intel:
If you are contemplating repaying $150,000 of (non-mortgage) debt instead of doing a Chapter 7, then retaining your Reserve Navy Intel job and TS/SCI must be very important to you. It is impossible for me to offer you any meaningful advice (other than to seek the assistance of a lawyer who has successfully rebutted many SORs and appealed many LODs) based on the ~65 words you used to describe your financial situation:
“I started a real estate business in 2004 which because of market conditions was forced to close in 2008. . . . in 2008 when I lost my home. . . . I carried a lot of personal debt due to the business and other business investments (over 150k). . . . my purpose was to pay it off as I was making payments to creditors one at time ($1400.00 a month).”
Unless you have good specific mitigating factors for why you are $150,000 in debt (simply saying you had a business failure isn’t enough), your SOR rebuttal may fail regardless of which course of action you take. You could spend thousands of dollars trying to repay the debts and wind up filing a Chapter 7 anyway.
Sheldon Cohen, an attorney specializing in security clearances, studied cases involving foreclosures and short sales and determined that adjudicators granted clearances when:
(1) applicants were victims of circumstances not of their own doing;
(2) they had not been speculators in the housing market who were caught when the bubble burst;
(3) they had not succumbed to fraudulent schemes “too good to be true” as a result of their own greed; and
(4) they had made good faith efforts to meet their other debts after the loss of their homes by foreclosure or short sale.
This same logic is applied to business failures, but if you don’t have a realistic plan acceptable to your creditors for paying off your debts within 5 years, bankruptcy may be the only alternative. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 22, 2011 at 1:07am
|
|
|
|
dilemma (MD):
All background investigations for Public Trust positions include a Personal Subject Interview. So you will be asked and have an opportunity to provide a full explanation of your financial situation then. You are only required to answer the questions on the SF85P honestly and accurately. But I recommend that you disclose your pending bankruptcy and the reasons for the bankruptcy on an addendum to the paper version of the SF85P or using one of the comment sections in the eQIP version of the form. I’ve never seen the eQIP version of the SF85P, but if it is like the eQIP version of the SF86, there are comment sections at each question and a comment section at the end of the form for any additional information an applicant wants to provide. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 21, 2011 at 11:11pm
|
|
|
|
Tim (Wisconsin),
In my opinion, you will probably be denied. The general policy in DoD is to wait a period of usually 1 year after the bankruptcy is approved before granting a clearance. The reason being that the 1 year period will show you have not fallen into the same situation/habits you were in before and are compliant with the payments for Chapter 13. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Bowie, MD) on January 21, 2011 at 12:25pm
|
|
|
|
Mike (Sacramento),
In my opinion, you will be granted in the long run. However, I doubt you will be granted an interim. You will need to list the denial on your SF 86/eQIP, as well as any current delinquent debt (disputed or not). After investigation, I think the adjudicators will grant this time. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Bowie, MD) on January 21, 2011 at 12:21pm
|
|
|
|
Ben (FL),
In my opinion, you should not be denied a clearance. Your incident was 5+ years ago. As long as you are honest in the investigative forms and with any investigator, you should be okay. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Bowie, MD) on January 21, 2011 at 12:17pm
|
|
|
|
I am a Reserve Intel professional who has a TS/SCI clearance which was revoked a week ago. I will fight the revocation because I love what I do. I have 38 days until I have to file a response with DONCAF and need some advice. I will do what I need to keep my clearance but because of the rules have no clue what DONCAF wants to see to let me keep my clearance.
My situation is as follows: I started a real estate business in 2004 which because of market conditions was forced to close in 2008. I had been very open with my financial situation with my CoC and completed an interview with my CO in 2008 when I lost my home. This was forwarded to the SSO. I carried a lot of personal debt due to the business and other business investments (over 150k). In 2009, I was mobilized and during the mobilization I had my PR. During the PR, I did not deny my debt and stated my purpose was to pay it off as I was making payments to creditors one at time ($1400.00 a month). My clearance was pulled and I do understand that it could be that DONCAF saw no “light at the end of the tunnel” with my debt. (I should mention that I used to be an OPM investigator in late 90’s and a BK was the “kiss of death” with clearances at the time. I know times have changed but this is the main reason why I did not file 2 years ago.)
So now what do I do? Do I engage my creditors to try and establish a payment plan, file chapter 13 (according to my BK attorney not the best for my situation) or a Chapter 7? I have made multiple calls to coworkers, supervisors, JAG, etc. and I get a different answer every time. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your forum- but it is sad because I tried to do the right thing and the only answer I can get is here. I am a damn good sailor and pretty much have my career based on an uneducated decision I need to make within the next month. I am looking for advice and any other place I can turn for guidance. Thank you again for any help. |
|
|
|
|
Navy Intel on January 20, 2011 at 9:40pm
|
|
|
|
Going for a public trust background investigation. Retained a bankruptcy attorney but nothing has been filed with the courts. How do I answer the questions about filing a bankruptcy? Also form asks about debts more than 180 days past due, but bills are at most 90 days past due at this time. Best advice on how to handle this when filling out forms. |
|
|
|
|
dilemma (MD) on January 20, 2011 at 12:46pm
|
|
|
|
Ron (MD):
Sounds like an honest mistake to me. Based on your explanation of what happened, I can’t imagine DOE denying a clearance because of it. Answer “yes” to question #26c on the SF86 and explain what happened in the comment section of question #26. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 20, 2011 at 12:51am
|
|
|
|
SK (Arlington, VA):
As long as you can answer “no” to questions #26a to 26p on the SF86, there shouldn’t be any problems. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 20, 2011 at 12:44am
|
|
|
|
Tim (Wisconsin):
If you are not already 90 days or more delinquent, continue making your payments on time for the next 2 or 3 months it will take to get a security clearance. Go see a reputable credit counseling service now. I recommend “Consumer Credit Counseling Services.” They will review your financial situation and tell you if you are a good candidate for their service or if you should do a chapter 13 or a chapter 7. You can’t just choose to do a chapter 7. You have to qualify to do a chapter 7. The sooner you take action to get your financial situation under control the better. But your eligibility for a clearance will be based on “why you went into debt,” “how you have handled your financial obligations,” your future intentions regarding your debt, and your ability to follow through on your intentions. Choose the most responsible way of getting your finances under control. For the security clearance focus on explaining the situations that were largely beyond your control that led to your indebtness and inability to satisfy your debts. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 20, 2011 at 12:40am
|
|
|
|
William,
I was recently offered a position with a contractor where I will be required to obtain a DOE clearance. It'll either be Q or L, but I do not know which yet.
I'm concerned about a problem I had with delinquent local taxes: back in 2008, I lived in Virginia, where I had to pay personal property tax on my car. I paid the tax for 2008, however when I moved out of the state at the end of 2008, I had forgotten to notify the local tax office, so as a result I still owed tax on my car for all of 2009 and about half of 2010. I received a notice from the county where I lived in July 2010 stating that I was delinquent in paying my personal property tax, which I believe was around $468. I paid the tax in full immediately and worked with the county's office of revenue to ensure I was "deregistered" as a resident, and I received a partial refund. Other than that blemish, I have no other financial problems on my record, no other tax problems, no debt, and excellent credit. In your opinion, would this pose a serious problem for getting my clearance, or could this be seen as an honest mistake on my part with a good faith effort made to resolve the debt?
Thanks very much for any insight or suggestions. |
|
|
|
|
Ron (MD) on January 17, 2011 at 11:54am
|
|
|
|
Hi everyone. Had a question about secret clearance with the DoD. I work for a consulting firm that has projects there and I'm being assigned to one requiring secret clearance. My records are clean and my financial history is okay. My credit isn't hot, it's around a 640. I owe about 20K in credit card debt and have some student loans. I've not been delinquent, and pay my debt on time. Wondering if I should have any concern? Thanks! |
|
|
|
|
SK (Arlington, VA) on January 10, 2011 at 9:49pm
|
|
|
|
I am a new enlistee for the Air National Guard, It is hard to find info on this subject so don't mind if my situation is different from others. I have student loans and a lot of credit card debt. I had struggled in the last few years with jobs due to economy. I am going to file for a Chapter 13 to consolidate my debt. I am sworn in and I will have my basic training date soon. I do have to have a security clearance. I have no other record aside from my financial stuff.
If I do a Chapter 13 right away and start making payments every month will this effect me? Or should I do a 7 and make payments on my student loans. I don't want to be in training and get denied, for that would almost be a waste. |
|
|
|
|
Tim (Wisconsin) on January 10, 2011 at 4:06pm
|
|
|
|
Yeah. Life certainly wrecked that dream ship on the sharp rocks of reality! |
|
|
|
|
Andrew (Wisconsin) on January 9, 2011 at 7:36pm
|
|
|
|
"Those who ignore their financial responsibilities may also ignore their responsibility to safeguard classified information."
FALSE. I can absolutely attest to the fact that your capacity to pay and your capacity to maintain confidentiality are two completely different things. Personally I went to college with the expectation that I would be able to secure a decent job and be able to sustain myself. Didn't happen. That doesn't mean I have now gone completely nuts and will choose to start spewing confidential information in every direction. Sick of hearin' it! I value my integrity. Thank you. |
|
|
|
|
Andrew (Wisconsin) on January 9, 2011 at 7:28pm
|
|
|
|
I was denied 8 March 2010 for a clearance due to financial reasons. I had 13 bad debts/delinquents including a judgement against me. I have paid off (this month) all but 2, those being 2 medical debts that I am actually disputing. I am reapplying on 8 March 2011 (1 year right?) and I am unsure if they will be actually show paid or whatever by the time I submit my new SF86.
What should I do on my SF86? Should I write something about it on the SF 86? Do you think I will get approved this time? I am down to $6000 on the two disputed medical debts and nothing else. I have been current ever since...Thanks....OH BTW, I am US Army. Sorry I forgot to add |
|
|
|
|
Mike (Sacramento) on January 8, 2011 at 10:11pm
|
|
|
|
Kkalvin:
You can be sponsored by 2 different employers at the same time in JPAS. But the open “Incident Report” in your JPAS record might present the same problem of getting hired by another company as the “Loss of Jurisdiction.” |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 5, 2011 at 4:08pm
|
|
|
|
MSaint34 (St .Louis )
“Inability or unwillingness to satify debts” is a potentially disqualifying condition. A lot of people have been experiencing financial difficults and for that reason the issue of “Financial Considerations” has been the number one cause of security clearance denials for the past few years. Ten years ago it was number five. Your chance of getting a clearance depends on the amount, the cause, and your actions in response to the debt. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 5, 2011 at 3:59pm
|
|
|
|
jazzy85917 ((dc)):
There is reciprocity of SCI and other SAPs but there are conditions. See my article on “Security Clearance Reciprocity of Special Access Eligibility” on posted on this website. Click on the “In the News” tab at the top of this page, then scroll down to July 8, 2009. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on January 5, 2011 at 3:48pm
|
|
|
|
Touching on my previous post, will this cc debt affect my current TS/SCI from transferring over to a govt agency. Does Reciprocity apply to SCIs? Again, I've never been late on a payment (i just have a lot) and my overall debt to income ratio is like 30-31%. |
|
|
|
|
jazzy85917 ((dc)) on January 4, 2011 at 7:10pm
|
|
|
|
When Applying for a security clearance I saw that I had to report all Judgements in which I have 3 and accounts past 90 days in which I have 3. I was told that should not be an issue since everybody is having issues since the economic collapse. My total debt is about 18,000 do you think I have a chance of getting a clearance. |
|
|
|
|
MSaint34 (St .Louis ) on January 3, 2011 at 11:56pm
|
|
|
|
I recently had to declare bankruptcy after getting in over my head over the course of several years. I declared the situation to my FSO and an investigation was started. My clearance temporarily went into a "Loss of Jurisdiction" stage due to an error that my FSO was able to fix. The contract that I currently work on might be terminated shortly and I would have to look for another job. I am worried that if I try to switch jobs, that my clearance might hit the loss of jurisdiction phase again, and I wouldn't be able to work for another company. I was told most companies wouldn't think about hiring someone with a clearance marked as loss of jurisdiction. Would it be possible to have one company acquire my clearance sponsorship before I officially left the previous company, and would that even prevent the issue? If not, what is the best way of handling this, or should I stay with my current company until the investigation is concluded? |
|
|
|
|
KKalvin on January 3, 2011 at 2:07pm
|
|
|
|
I failed to file (2) consecutive years ('04-'05) of tax returns due to combat deployments and the knowledge I would receive tax refunds for both years. I forgot about them until I applied for a contracting position in late 2010. Upon learning that those years were never filed, I mailed overnight my 1040s and W-2s for both years and gave copies of them along with my USPS shipping confirmation slip when interviewed by the investigator. Will this failure to file prevent me from getting my final clearance? (interim was already denied).
thanks. |
|
|
|
|
SA (jacksonville) on January 1, 2011 at 3:27pm
|
|
|
|
L (AZ):
No one can make even an informed guess whether a security clearance will be granted following a short sale or foreclosure in a case involving multiple short sales, but Sheldon I. Cohen’s article on “Debt and Home Foreclosures: Their Effect on National Security Clearances” (posted on this website) may give you an idea of how these things are viewed by DOHA judges. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 23, 2010 at 10:28pm
|
|
|
|
jazzy85917 (dc)
All federal agencies used the “Adjudicative Guidelines for Determining Eligibility for Access to Classified Information,” as approved by the President and disseminated in December 2005 by the President’s National Security Advisor. Agencies that issue SCI and other SAPs access authorizations use the Adjudicative Guidelines plus ODNI ICD 704, but the only difference concerns foreign connections. If none of your debts are or have been delinquent, you have nothing to be concerned about. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 23, 2010 at 10:14pm
|
|
|
|
James (San Diego):
A police officer position may or may not require a security clearance, but it will probably require a high-risk public trust determination. Paid collection accounts of only a few hundred dollars usually do not result in an unfavorable security clearance or federal employment suitability determination. Credit scores usually are not used for security clearance or employment suitability determinations. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 23, 2010 at 10:05pm
|
|
|
|
Nervous wife (Northern VA):
The tax lien should not be a problem because it occurred prior to your husband’s initial security clearance investigation and should have been resolved back in 2005. Mortgage modification shouldn’t be a problem either.
If your husband notified his security officer as required at the time you used the debt settlement company (and became delinquent on your debts), the government adjudicative office knew about it when it happened. If there was no negative action taken back then, I see no reason why they would consider it a disqualifying condition now. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 23, 2010 at 9:58pm
|
|
|
|
BT (Texas):
Of course you have a chance at receiving a security clearance, but if the debt is yours, I hope you have a good explanation for why you haven’t paid it for 8 years. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 23, 2010 at 9:41pm
|
|
|
|
I had some debt in collections but nothing over a few hundred dollars but everything is paid up to date now but my score is low its 551. I am applying for a police officer position on the navy base. Think they be concerned with my previous debt? |
|
|
|
|
James (San Diego) on December 20, 2010 at 9:45pm
|
|
|
|
I heard that some CAFs (although all DoD) have different adjudicative guidelines, is this true? Also, I have approx 49k in cc debt along with my ,house, mortgage, car, and student loans. All of my bills are paid on time each month and I have money left over. I have never been late on a payment and am even paying extra to get my cc down. This debt arose from medical bills, house repairs, and a period of unemployment. Will this affect my clearance with some? I just got re-adjudicated last year and actually had a little more debt and it wasn't a problem. |
|
|
|
|
jazzy85917 (dc) on December 20, 2010 at 8:57pm
|
|
|
|
In 2009, I tried to short sell my investment property due to declining values (50% underwater) and a toxic loan in which payments would adjust to amount that I would not be able to cover with market rent, but was told by the Bank that I had to be late in order to do a short sale. I made the decision to go late. After 1 year and numerous offers submitted to the Bank in which Bank has declined offers and countered for higher than maket value, all potential buyers have walked. The home is set to go to foreclosure in 2 weeks. I do not want to close the door on the opportunity to be granted a top secret clearance in the future with a foreclosure on my credit report. I can reinstate the loan with 1/3 of my retirement savings in order to try to sell it again w/ in the year but of course with no guarantee that the Bank would approve the short sale. The Bank has also denied a loan modification. I have been able to successfully short sale 4 other investment properties showing as legally settled for less than owed on my credit report. Prior to this, I had 700+ credit score with no lates.
Should I just let it foreclose or reinstate the loan?? |
|
|
|
|
L (AZ) on December 17, 2010 at 5:15pm
|
|
|
|
I have a couple of questions about my husband's TS. He is currently in the middle of his PR and I am a wreck about it. We have had some pretty serious financial isues over the last several years. Most of it was due to job losses. He was laid off 3 times. Once in 2002, couldn't find a job for a year, 2nd time in 2004 again took a year to find a job. We refinanced our house both times to hold on while he was looking for employment. He finally got a job in 2005 and was granted a TS. He took a job with DOJ in 2008 but was terminated later that year. He found a new job a month later where he was being paid while waiting for contract. After 4 months the contract was cancelled and he was again without a job. Found a new job 4 months later and is still there today. Due to all the job losses, new baby, and our house payments going up we got in over our heads with credit cards. We decided to hire a debt settlement company and have spent the last 3 years settling all of our accounts. We were not late on anything until then but we had to go delinquent according to them to settle the accounts. We also had to pay them a fee. During his interview the investigator went over all the accounts which showed a zero balance but settled for less than full ammount. We also modified our mortgage to get out of the interest only payments which were also scheduled to increase. This was almost a year ago. We were granted the modification due to loss of income when he got the new job. We had one account show not settled yet at time of interview but we had paid it after the credit report was pulled, investigator told us he would verify it at the courthouse. We have paperwork verifying that acoount was settled. Also we had a tax lien 11years ago we paid an offer in compromise that somehow jumped back on our report. Investigator said he would verify at courthouse too that we had settled it.The tax lien shouldn't have been on his credit report we paid it off 11 years ago, will the adjudicator hold that against him? Does my husband have a fair chance of being cleared since everything was paid/settled at time of investigation. We have been waiting almost ayear and just recently found out it is in adjudication. I haven't slept this whole year sick with worry, he is our only source of income. He has been promoted twice at the new job and had exceptional reviews two years in a row. Sorry so long winded, just so worried. |
|
|
|
|
Nervous wife (Northern VA) on December 17, 2010 at 5:08pm
|
|
|
|
MRB (dallas tx):
An MBI is a suitability/fitness investigation used for a Moderate-Risk Public Trust position. See my article on Employment Suitability Versus Security Clearance. At the top of this page click on the link, "In the News," then scroll down to Jun 22, 2009. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 15, 2010 at 12:22am
|
|
|
|
mike (ohio):
No, unless you are involved in ongoing criminal activity and there is a perception that your brother might be influence by you to do something unlawful or detrimental to the security of the United States. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 15, 2010 at 12:15am
|
|
|
|
I have a $3800.00 unpaid Credit Card collection on my credit report, it was opened in 2002 and off my credit report until a Collection Agency just bought it and put it on my Report. I told them I am trying to validate this debt and if owed will pay it off immediately, do I have a chance of a security clearance??? |
|
|
|
|
BT (Texas) on December 14, 2010 at 10:02pm
|
|
|
|
I have good credit but i had an DWI and misdemeanor will that prevent me to pass a MBI clearance. |
|
|
|
|
MRB (dallas tx) on December 14, 2010 at 12:04am
|
|
|
|
It seems as though the majority of the people who have issues landing a job are the people who have unforseen financial troubles. Many people cant land jobs that they are more than qualified for here in the states (let alone abroad) due to credit stipulations. With 9.3million people currently unemployed, I can only forsee this situation getting worse. I do think that there needs to be a revision on how they process clearances. Kinda need to change with the times, ya know. |
|
|
|
|
Rah (FL) on December 13, 2010 at 8:45pm
|
|
|
|
My brother is in the service, good kid no criminal history. me on the other hand have had some problems, will this keep him from getting his security clearance? |
|
|
|
|
mike (ohio) on December 11, 2010 at 6:51pm
|
|
|
|
AMD (Norfolk,VA):
Bankruptcy or foreclosure will not automatically result in a clearance revocation. They could result in the temporary suspension of a clearance until the situation is investigated, the investigation is adjudicated, and a final determination is made to continue or revoke the clearance. As indicated in the article there are situations that result in bankruptcy or foreclosure that are largely beyond the control of an individual. If the circumstances substantially mitigate the financial problems by showing that the financial problems have been or are being resolved and are unlikely to recur, there is a good possibility that the clearance will not be revoked. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 9, 2010 at 1:21pm
|
|
|
|
MD (NJ),
The quick answer is “yes”, your bankruptcy could affect your eligibility, not only for the TS, but also your various accesses. Each access authority will make an independent determination based on the guidelines for that access. If you file, provide your security officer with all pertinent info and keep them appraised at each stage of the action. Be prepared to complete a new SF 86/eQIP. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Bowie, MD) on December 7, 2010 at 12:19pm
|
|
|
|
MD (NJ):
My advice is to report your financial situation to your company security officer as soon as you become delinquent on any debt that you are unable to repay. This is not an option; it is a requirement. Failure to do so compounds the problem by creating a second potentially disqualifying condition--financial considerations plus personal conduct. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on December 3, 2010 at 11:29pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I just recently had to file for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy. My husband is in the military and did not file but we have a mortgage with both our names on it on a house in FL that we can no longer afford to keep. we had to move when he got orders to VA. He has a Top Secret Security Clearance for his job and I just dont know what to do. I have been told that if he has a bankruptcy or foreclosure on his credit report that he will lose his clearance. Then he loses his rate in the military . Do you know if thats true? Any advice is welcome, thank you |
|
|
|
|
AMD (Norfolk,VA) on December 3, 2010 at 4:28pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I currently have a TS CLearance and am going to be filing chapter 7 bankruptcy soon. The reason for filing is because of medical bills, my wife doesnt have a job, etc. Will reporting this to my company cause me to lose my TS clearance? I also have special access briefings like NATO, FGI, COMSEC, and CNWDI. Any advice? |
|
|
|
|
MD (NJ) on December 1, 2010 at 10:59am
|
|
|
|
sac (nyc):
There is a provision (Guideline E: Personal Conduct) in the Adjudicative Guidelines that makes the combination of various issues disqualifying when no single issue reaches the threshold of being disqualifying by itself; however, this is usually only used for combinations of dissimilar acts of misconduct, irresponsibility, or poor judgment. Neither your financial situation nor your foreign travel/residence per se is disqualifying. A foreign connection (such as a foreign spouse that might create a “heightened risk” of foreign exploitation or a conflict of interest is a disqualifying condition. See the article on Foreign Influence and Security Clearances” on this website. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 29, 2010 at 11:41pm
|
|
|
|
DW (Brooklyn):
No, provided you have a realistic plan/budget that will allow you to repay the loans as agreed. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 29, 2010 at 11:21pm
|
|
|
|
Hi. I'm currently going through the application process for a government intelligence agency. I need to get a TS clearance. I have no criminal history, no debt beyond school loans, prior Air Force with honorable discharge. My main concern is that in the process of getting a bachelors and two masters degrees, I've managed to amass something like $130,000 in student loan debt. None are in default or anything, I haven't had to start paying on them yet, as I am still officially a student until Dec 2010. But will having this much student loan debt disqualify me from getting a TS clearance? |
|
|
|
|
DW (Brooklyn) on November 29, 2010 at 8:24am
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I have significant student debt (approx. $70,000) from a Master's degree received in 2008 and high credit card debt (almost 10,000$ - pretty much at my credit limit) due to a past low-paying job and a few months unemployment. I have never missed or been late for any payments.
Can this disqualify me for Secret clearance?
Also, just to make things interesting: I have lived abroad for much of the last 5 years, either studying (Canada, France) or working (Ukraine). My wife is from Ukraine.
I think my financial situaiton, while difficult, is not too problematic because I have been scrupulous in respecting my payment obligations. My worry is that they will see this high debt, see that I have lived abroad and married a foreigner, and say that while none of this is disqualifying per se, combined these factors mean that they cannot be 100% confident in my reliability or loyalty. Am I being paranoid?
Thank you! |
|
|
|
|
sac (nyc) on November 28, 2010 at 10:50pm
|
|
|
|
Jon (Philadelphia):
I’ve seen cases where applicants had more than $100,000 in student loans (and no other debts) and it didn’t cause a problem. As long as you have the means to repay the debts as agreed, you should be okay. One paid collection account isn’t a security concern. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 23, 2010 at 12:14am
|
|
|
|
Alan (Los Angeles, CA):
Both your felony offense and inability to pay debts (bankruptcy) are potentially disqualifying conditions. Unless there were some extra-ordinary mitigating conditions, your chance of getting a security clearance is poor. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 23, 2010 at 12:03am
|
|
|
|
Gary L ( NC):
Even if you have excellent mitigation for the bankruptcy, it is extremely difficult to get an interim clearance with such a recent bankruptcy. But don't rely on my opinion. It only takes a few days for an interim secret clearance decision. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 22, 2010 at 11:53pm
|
|
|
|
I have $140,000 in student loans and am about to finish undergrad next month. Also, about two years ago, a credit card company sent my account to a collection agency. I promptly paid the balance in full, but still have a negative mark on my credit reports. In your opinion, will this adversely affect my chances of obtaining a clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Jon (Philadelphia) on November 18, 2010 at 2:03pm
|
|
|
|
Hello Mr. Henderson! I'm a current engineering graduate and have gotten a job offer with the Naval Warfare Center! I would like to know if there is any chance of obtaining a DoD secret clearance. I have a a felony record for aggravated assault in 2009 and I'm currently probation. I also have discharged debts under chapter 7 bankruptcy three months ago. Thank you very much! |
|
|
|
|
Alan (Los Angeles, CA) on November 17, 2010 at 3:14pm
|
|
|
|
I filed Chapter 7 in June 2010 and the discharge was final on 22 Sep 2010. I have been offered a contractor position that is requiring a secret clearance. My concern is the length of time between granting the discharge and the interim being granted. The active duty unit I will be supporting is aware of the Chapter 7 and does not have a problem with it. I have no other disqualifing traits. I have been unemployed since April when the government contract I was supporting ended. I have ensured that all debts on all 3 of the credit reports are showing a 0 balance and I have over a year of perfect rental history and reaffirmed with a 2008 vechicle that is showing paid as agreed. Opinions? |
|
|
|
|
Gary L ( NC) on November 17, 2010 at 10:13am
|
|
|
|
Don (Kentucky):
"Inability to pay debts" is a potentially disqualifying condition for a security clearance. Bankruptcy is proof of a person's previous inability to pay debts. Some people are able to get a security clearance even with a recent bankruptcy, but it usually takes some very good mitigating conditions. Otherwise adjudicator generally want to see more than a year of responsible financial management after a bankruptcy. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 12, 2010 at 9:48pm
|
|
|
|
KO (San Diego):
If you are not delinquent on any debts now and you do a Chapter 13, it doesn't really matter how many months you have been making payments to the trustee. What is important is the reason for the Chapter 13. A Chapter 13 is better than becoming delinquent on your debt. Either way your financial situation will have to be reported to the company security officer as soon as one or the other occurs. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on November 12, 2010 at 9:43pm
|
|
|
|
AA (Taft, CA),
In my opinion, a fight 4 years ago will not result in an adverse clearance determination. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on November 9, 2010 at 1:12pm
|
|
|
|
JB (VA),
Your criminal conduct is minor. It appears that you have made every reasonable effort to address and correct your financial situation. If when OPM obtains your credit report and the account status reads “current”, “pays as agreed”, “in compliance with payment agreement”, etc for each account that should verify your financial responsibility. I suggest you obtain a copy of your credit report from each of the 3 major reporting agencies to see what has been reported. In my opinion, your scenario should not result in a clearance denial. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on November 9, 2010 at 1:10pm
|
|
|
|
My husband has a TS/SCI clearance which is up for periodic review next November. We are extremley in debt, due to unexpected family issues.Seriously thinking about filing bankruptcy but scared his clearance would be denied. If it denied he loses his job. If we file chapter 13, will there be enough time of showing consistant ontime payments. |
|
|
|
|
KO (San Diego) on November 9, 2010 at 11:17am
|
|
|
|
I have never been behind on my bills however They became so big that I have to file bankrupcy in september of this year. I am going for a new job that requires a serect clearance Will it keep me form getting a clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Don (Kentucky) on November 8, 2010 at 12:20pm
|
|
|
|
Hello, I recently got hired by MSC (military sealift command) & I only worked on ship bout close to 2 months & I learned that don caf intende on denying my security clearance. My job placed me on job suspenion w/o pay if i'm not working how am i suppose to address these bills this is just making situation worst. Any advice on my situation most of my bills are in collection & I'm working with credit consolidation companies trying to prove good faith but in the meantime while waiting for a reply from doncaf (waiting without incomes using my paid time etc draing my saving i'm back to square 1 this situation can be distressing to anyone trying to coupe & get on track. any feeback |
|
|
|
|
SECURITYDENIAL411 (BRONX) on November 7, 2010 at 1:57pm
|
|
|
|
August 2008 I got recalled back to active duty. Once that happend I knew i was not going to be able afford my mortgage. I called my bank asking if I can do a short sale. My bank said yes but I need to have 120+ days late payments in order for them to approve the short sale. I missed the 120 days got the short sale and 2 years later the short sale fell through and just recently did a Deed in lieu. That took my bank 4 months to approve. Now Im just about 3 years in missed payments and in the end of the hiring process with the DEA. Is this going to affect me from getting hired? |
|
|
|
|
JJ (NJ) on November 4, 2010 at 12:41am
|
|
|
|
I was terminated from a job back in July of this year and have been unemployed. It is forcing me to declare a chapter 7 bankruptcy due to be filed this month. And because my job with my former employer lasted only five months, I do not list it on my resume. I have an active DOD Secret clearance. I am interviewing for a job with an employer who requires a Secret clearance. What do I need to do at this point? |
|
|
|
|
tada (Colorado) on November 3, 2010 at 10:15pm
|
|
|
|
I'm in backgrounds waiting for clearance. My credit is good, I have no past due debts and I am never late and am in good standing with my credit card. But I did get in trouble for getting in a fight almost four years ago. I was never charged with anything. I told them about it on the eqip, should I worry about getting a clearance? |
|
|
|
|
AA (Taft,ca) on October 29, 2010 at 6:53pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I need to know what are my chances of getting TS clearance with my credit and 1 misdemeanor past history.
MISDEMEANOR- I had my misdemeanor from the losing my appeal for getting my dog back from animal control. I did not have any arrest, I just went to court trying to get my dog back. I was charged for "failure to provide care for the dog". Court asked me to pay fine and got the misdemeanor.
CREDIT - I defaulted my student loans back in 2005 and utility bills and medical bills due to health problem. When I get back working again, I started calling all my creditors to make arrangements to pay off all my past bills. On 2007, I had 3 credit cards in delinquent due to financial problems. However, I started making payments on my student loans and made all them "CURRENT". Basically, all my delinquent has been paid off since 2009. I made a drastic actions to improved my credit for my mortgage loans. My credit score went up after paying all my delinquent and getting my student loan back to current.
So, for my past bad debt and 1 misdemeanor would deny or prevent me for not getting my TS clearance? Please help. I just submitted my SF86 last month. Your feedback will be appreciated.
Thanks - JB |
|
|
|
|
JB (VA) on October 28, 2010 at 10:24pm
|
|
|
|
JRM (Mid-West),
There is no doubt that your past credit situation will be looked at. But the bottom line is that if your accounts are listed as “current” on your credit report when the investigation is conducted, it should not result in a clearance denial. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on October 26, 2010 at 12:05pm
|
|
|
|
JRM (Mid-West):
Not sure why you listed the student loan delinquency on your SF86, since they were only 90-120 days past due. The SF86 asks for information about debts that are currently over 90 days past due and those that were formerly more 180 days past due. If the SF86 you filled out was the one you did for your recruiter, make sure this information is not entered into the one you do at MEPS. In any event, I’m fairly sure that this will not result in a clearance denial. Check your credit reports to insure that the information on your student loans has been updated. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 22, 2010 at 3:58pm
|
|
|
|
Anonymous361492 (Omaha Nebraska):
It is highly unlikely that explaining what happened on an SF86 and submitting supporting documents will result in any criminal action against your brother.
I recommend you obtain affidavits from your brother, your parents, and especially the lawyer you consulted. Hopefully you discussed this matter with the lawyer long before you received the job offer. It would also be helpful, if you have documentation of the security alert you had placed on your credit reports at the time you learned about the identity theft. All this would be fairly persuasive evidence that identity theft occurred without having filed a police report and may be sufficient to mitigate the “financial considerations” issue for a security clearance.
The problem is presenting these documents to the adjudicator who will make the decision regarding an interim clearance. Because almost all SF86s are submitted electronically via eQIP it is not possible to submit attachments with the SF86. You can submit the documents separately by mail (or Fedex) with a cover letter directly to the clearance granting authority and hope that the documents will be matched to your SF86. The Facility Security Officer (FSO) at the company should be able to give you a control number for your clearance application and you should write this number on the envelope.
You should provide your full name, date of birth, social security number, control number, and explanation on the cover letter. In the comment section of question 26 of the SF86, explain what happened and that the the documents will be sent separately and the date they will be sent. The company FSO may be able to provide further assistance or advice. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 22, 2010 at 12:59pm
|
|
|
|
I was recently offered a position with a government contractor that requires me to obtain a secret clearance. I currently have a Public Trust, and I don't have any criminal or financial/credit hiccups in my past. However, I have several parking tickets that are unpaid/unsettled totalling over $500. Could that solely result in a denial of my clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Robez (Springfield, va) on October 22, 2010 at 10:55am
|
|
|
|
Greetings... I am quite sure this type of question has already been answered in a previous post so please bare with me as I put it forth. Last year I feel behind with my student loans due to some medical expenses from my spouse. In March I rectified the issues by placing the loans in Differment and setting up different payment plans. These loans fell 90-120 days late; I noted these delinquent loans on the sf-86. I am current on all my loans and debts as of now and have been sense March. I am in the process of enlisting in the Navy where I would just need a Ordinary Secret Clearance for my rating. Would my past issues with these loans cause me to be declined a clearance? |
|
|
|
|
JRM (Mid-West) on October 18, 2010 at 1:28pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
(Anyone can respond to this message if you wish)
I was recently offered a great position contingent on my obtaining an interim Secret Clearance. From all accounts, according to all the research I have gathered thus far, obtaining this type of clearance is in fact typically more difficult than obtaining the full Secret Clearance.
Here is my concern and I would like to hear your collective expert advice if possible.
My criminal/police/court record is clean. On the financial side, I previously (roughly 3-4 years ago) attended online University courses with a local University. During this period of time, I decided to notify my professor via the online class mailbox about my intentions to drop the second semester of the course.
Low and behold, I was still charged for the second semester despite my request that they cancel enrollment (I take full responsibility for not approaching this matter differently in the past). I discussed this at length with the school and they requested that I send this information in writing for which I complied. I wrote that I was more than willing to pay for the first semester but did not claim responsibility for the second semester. They reviewed this information for what seemed like decades and without notice abruptly sent my account to collections/a lawyer (I found out after a court document was sent to my parents home address)
I was naturally shocked by this move and immediately made contact with the school. They directed me to speak with the lawyer to settle the matter. I followed through with this and after several attempts finally got a hold of this lawyer. Again, I explained the situation to him as I had on various occasions and specifically in my letter to the school. He agreed that something was definitely wrong and mentioned that he would contact the school and investigate the situation.
As time progressed, I continued to follow-up with him (several times) to find out the status of his "investigation" and contact with the school. He would only tell me to " wait ". Foolishly on my part, as I was "waiting" for a response from this lawyer, I completely forgot about the court deadline!!!!Embarrassed. As you can imagine, the school was eventually awarded the judgment when this deadline elapsed! Suffice to say, I am still hard on myself till this day about such an oversight. At the end of the day, the balance was paid in full approximately a year and a half ago.
During this period of time (3-4 years back) I shockingly learned of various discrepancies on my credit record. After much research, I traced these discrepancies to a family member (my brother). Some background information: I previously resided in the "family" house for some time but eventually decided to move out to my own house in 2005. However, my brother continued to live in the family house after my move and a certain portion of my mail was still being delivered to this address. To make this story shorter, since I was no longer around, he basically intercepted my mail, forged my signature and established credit card accounts (without my knowledge and consent) for his personal use (on a side note, there has to be a better way to verify an individuals signature before granting/approving credit accounts). In fact, for one credit account, he even placed himself as a co-signer!! Angry. Subsequently, he exhausted the available credit on all accounts, including a Verizon mobile account. The final piece to this is that he conveniently defaulted on all accounts shortly thereafter leaving me to deal with this burden. In fact, my wages were garnished (roughly $2000) for one of these accounts, again by surprise.
I know what you all may be thinking. Trust me, I thought very SERIOUSLY about reporting him to the authorities, however my parents persuaded me otherwise. I also sought legal counsel on the matter and wanted to make him accountable at all costs (short of jail time) for ruining my credit. They all informed me that jail time was imminent if reported since such an act is considered a "Federal" crime/offense. I agonized over this for quite some time!! Eventually, I decided that in order to stem the barrage of collection calls and commence repair of my credit, the balances would be paid off entirely. One by one, I called all collection companies involved and painstakingly negotiated "payoff amounts". My family assisted with paying roughly 40% of the collective balance (total balance was in the neighborhood of $8500 - $10,000). My brother on the other hand has, till this day, been unable (although he says is willing) to pay anything!! There is more to this, however I don't wish to extend this message.
In short, I truly would like to qualify for the interim Secret Clearance. These issues have placed a cloud over my chances. In order to prove that my brother created these accounts falsely, I intend to track him down and make him sign a letter describing these events. Ultimately, I plan to notarize this letter for authenticity!
So, given these circumstances, how would you advice me to prepare my form SF-86 to properly describe and document what occurred? In your expert opinion, is it still possible to obtain the interim if this matter is addressed thoroughly/properly when this form is submitted? How about the final clearance? I have been a responsible citizen and made great attempts to keep my criminal/financial history clean throughout my life. I hope this will shine through during the investigation and adjudication process.
I truly appreciate all advice on this matter and look forward to your assistance.
Best Regards,
Cal.
Also of importance is what the legal ramifications are for reporting the "identity forgery" incident concerning my brother on the from SF-86? Again, my parents are concerned that it would lead to legal trouble for him but I have been telling them that it shouldn't be an issue. Am I wrong in my thinking? Would my report lead to an arrest or something similar? |
|
|
|
|
Anonymous361492 (Omaha Nebraska) on October 18, 2010 at 1:47am
|
|
|
|
Mika (san diego):
Of course a bankruptcy can have a negative affect on keeping a security clearance. Your concern is more immediate than your periodic reinvestigation in 5 years. You are required to report to your security manager any potentially disqualifying condition for a security clearance. A bankruptcy is evidence of an inability to pay debts, which is a potentially disqualifying condition. There’s another article on this website titled, “Explaining Delinquent Debt on the SF86,” which might help you. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on October 14, 2010 at 9:34pm
|
|
|
|
I need advice if my clearance will be affected since it is due in 5 years and plan on filing bankruptcy soon since I am living pay check to paycheck. Will this affect my clearance or have it revoked? I am making my payments on time and recently short saled my second home and adding another huge loan from the bank in order to let go of the house. I plan on paying my student loans once I do file since I can not afford to pay them off at this time. I have been in the service 14 years and plan to complete my time in without any clearance issues. need advice, thanks! |
|
|
|
|
Mika (san diego) on October 14, 2010 at 1:55am
|
|
|
|
Chris (Chicago),
In my opinion, a recent bankruptcy does not bode well for a clearance being granted. Although bankruptcy is a legal process to absolve you of debts, recent bankruptcies are not looked at favorably because usually there is insufficient time between the bankruptcy and the investigation to show your debts/financial management are not repetitive. A better option could be to go to an agency like Consumer Credit Counseling Service to see if they can help you. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on October 12, 2010 at 10:36am
|
|
|
|
DM (Hawaii),
It seems that you are making a good faith effort to address your financial problems. Additionally, some of the debt appears to have been caused by circumstances beyond your control. In my opinion, you should not be denied a clearance/SCI. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on October 12, 2010 at 10:31am
|
|
|
|
I'm applying for contract job in Afghanistan. I've been out of work for almost a year and recently lost my house and have been unable to pay any of my bills. My plan is to file bankruptcy. I'm in the process now of filling out the security clearance applications. What are my chances??? |
|
|
|
|
Chris (Chicago) on October 7, 2010 at 9:24pm
|
|
|
|
I went through a very bad divorce a couple years back that had me paying child support for a baby that wasnt mine and getting into bad debt which included my car getting repossed due to me having to pay the bills by myself and a tax lien. i got my car back and paid it off paid off my tax lien and currently only have one account on my credit report that is past due. My credit rating is finally getting back on track and is around 630 right now and going up every month. My question is that with my past mistakes will that make me be denied a SCI when I apply later this year. My military career is going well and I been working for the last couple of years to fix my debt problem. Do you think they will deny me my clearance? |
|
|
|
|
dm (hawaii) on October 7, 2010 at 1:46am
|
|
|
|
1098 (NM),
With the options you present, I vote for counseling with a reputable credit counseling firm, like Consumer Credit Counseling Service. Be careful as some firms require you to pay an amount up front for them to even begin the process and have large fees. If you are in the military, consider the Army Community Services Budgeting Service (or equivalent for AF, Navy, USMC). I advise against Chapter 7 as that will lengthen your investigation time and is typically frowned upon by adjudicators, especially if recent. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on October 5, 2010 at 12:55pm
|
|
|
|
Seg000 (PA),
All Army officers require a minimum of a Secret clearance. Chaplains are one group that can be commissioned prior to the Secret being granted. I think the important thing for you to do is to contact all of your delinquent creditors and attempt to start a payment plan or go to Consumer Credit Counseling Service to help you. If you stay proactive on your credit situation, it will look much better. There are also articles on this site you can review for guidance/advice. In my opinion, your situation should not result in a clearance denial. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on October 5, 2010 at 12:48pm
|
|
|
|
Big Al (VA),
I think you can stop worrying. It seems that you have done everything reasonable to address your debts. In my opinion, you should not be denied a clearance based on the info you provided. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on October 5, 2010 at 12:43pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I need a peace of mind about my situation. I just got hired for a government job that will require TOP Secret clearnce. I already obtained a Secret Clearance two years ago. I am currently working in the job that require TOP Secret. I had 180 days delinquent on my student loan back in 2004. The student loan became defaulted account and ECMC put me to rehab for 12 months payment. I did everything they asked and now I have my student loan current never been late for past 4 yrs. Two years ago, I had a financial difficulties due to my brother leave me by my self paying our apartment. I had 90 to 120 days delinquent on 3 credit cards. I made an arrangement to pay it all off. I had them paid off for past two yrs now. I finally got my credit back to fair credit. I just got approved in mortgage and currently own $250.000 house. I have 3 credit cards now and never been late.
Do i get DQ to get my top secret clearance? please let me know so I can get a peace of mind. Thank you..
Big Al |
|
|
|
|
Big Al (VA) on October 2, 2010 at 9:21pm
|
|
|
|
Hi Bill L. (Annapolis, MD),
Thanks for the response. Do I get my Interim Secret clearance? With the issue I mentioned earlier. Should Interim Secret clearance declined due to own or have owned real estate in a foreign country? Thanks in advance. |
|
|
|
|
SS (MD) on October 1, 2010 at 6:53pm
|
|
|
|
Ok, I have a TS/SCI that is coming up for review next summer and I am concerned that my current financial situation will impact the clearance. I have over $90k in cc debt. All but one within the last 7 hrs have been Pd on time. The one cc was on an automatic payment and I was paying just $2 less then the min (because the min payment went up and I never checked) so now I have a 60 day late payment.
We are about to sign up w/a credit counseling company to lower the rates and get on a plan to pay off the debt. I am also considering maybe filing for chapter 7. Desperately need to keep clearance, what would you recommend? The counseling w/debt consolidation or the chapter 7? Status quo is not an option! |
|
|
|
|
1098 (NM) on September 30, 2010 at 11:36pm
|
|
|
|
I am looking into the Chaplain Candidate Program. Due to loss of a job a few years ago, my score is 590. 2 closed cc accounts ($550.00 each), some med bills (highest is like $450.00) a voluntary vehicle reposession ($6,000 balance due) from not having a job to make the payments and my student loans (no problem with them). What type of clearance do I need as a Chaplain and could my credit history keep me out of the military? |
|
|
|
|
seg000 (PA) on September 30, 2010 at 2:32pm
|
|
|
|
Hi,
I am in the process of trying to get a public-trust/MBI clearance. The one and only thing on my record that concerns me is the delinquent debt (~30k, one of the millions who were affected by this housing bubble) that shows up on my credit report, everything else is clean on my record (no arrests, DUIs etc.). This debt is only shows up because I'm in the process of trying to get a loan modification on my house. I've been up-to-date on all the trial payments the bank has asked me to make while this process goes on and submitting any and all paperwork they've asked me to send in. I've filled out the SP85 (in which I explained the reason for the delinquent debt and how I've already been in the process of mitigating it) as well as gotten my fingerprints done.
About a month after I had my fingerprints done, I got a request from the reviewing officer (?) to explain the delinquent debt which I did with all the official paperwork between me and the bank. It's been two months since I submitted my explanation and 4 months since the process started. I was wondering what you think my prospects are at this point of getting the clearance? I've been up to date with everything and been honest about my situation. I still feel like I'll be denied the clearance for something that is under process to get resolved soon.
Thank you for taking your time to respond to all these questions.
Thanks,
Concerned |
|
|
|
|
Concerned (Washington D.C.) on September 29, 2010 at 9:48am
|
|
|
|
Jo (Virginia):
I think you have a reasonable chance of being granted a TS clearance. Of course you shouldn't expect an interim clearance and your final clearance will take longer than other people. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 23, 2010 at 3:01pm
|
|
|
|
Jo (VA),
Generally, if there are no additional financial issues subsequent to completion of a bankruptcy action, a clearance is usually granted. If it was a chapter 7, no problem. If it was a chapter 13, the investigator and adjudicator will be checking the trustee for verification that you are compliant with payments. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on September 23, 2010 at 11:38am
|
|
|
|
SM (TX),
Your credit score is probably not a problem. However, if anyone looks at your debt to income ratio or the fact that your cards are close to max’d out, there could be questions. Generally, if your payments are current, there is no issue. Personally, I suggest you get hold of why you are using so many cards when 2-3 would probably do. I do not see an issue that you result in a TS being denied. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on September 23, 2010 at 11:34am
|
|
|
|
I have an opportunity for a job with a contractor that requires a TS clearance. I don't know whether to apply or not because me and my wife filed bankruptcy a year ago. Several things led to this, my wife lost her job due to downsizing, my pay and benefits were cut due to the same situation. Do you think I could get a TS with this issue. I have a clean financial record since that time.
Thank you |
|
|
|
|
Jo (Virginia) on September 22, 2010 at 7:50am
|
|
|
|
Stressed Out (California):
The last time I saw an OPM security clearance investigation, the credit report did not have a credit score. Too many things not related to credit history go into a credit score, so it is not a reliable way to gauge financial responsibility.
Paying off your collection accounts is a big plus, even if they were turned over for collection because of poor financial management. I think you have a fair to good chance of getting a final Secret clearance, if you stay on top of your financial situation and can show your ability to meet all your financial obligations. The most important thing will be your ability to articulate why the delinquencies occurred and what you have done to preclude any recurrence. See my response to “Dawn” below about federal employment suitability. Contracting positions often entail fiduciary responsibility and therefore may have job-specific suitability criteria regarding financial responsibility. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 21, 2010 at 9:33pm
|
|
|
|
Dawn (Ohio):
If you had a good reason for the bankruptcy and you have not had any subsequent delinquencies, you probably won't be denied a security clearance. But federal employment suitability is a separate determination, using slightly different adjudicative criteria, plus agencies have job-specific suitability criteria. I imagine the IRS probably has job-specific criteria concerning financial matters.
See my article on Employment Suitability Versus Security Clearance -- http://www.clearancejobs.com/cleared-news/83/employment-suitability-versus-security-clearance |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 21, 2010 at 9:16pm
|
|
|
|
I currently have a secret sc with the navy and have submitted for an intel position that requires TS/Single Scope Background Investigation.
My concern is with the amount of cc debt that I have. It is close to 16k spread out over approximately 7 cards, all of which have been paid on time but all of them are very near maxed out. I have only one report that has ever gone to collections which is a 200 dollar water bill that was not handled on time because I was on deployment, it has since been settled with the company. I also have a fairly low credit score of around 615, most likely because of all the credit cards.
The rest of my background is pretty clean as I am currently working for the sheriff's office. Is this going to keep me from getting the clearance and if so what do i need to do to improve my chances of receiving it. Thanks. |
|
|
|
|
SM (Texas) on September 21, 2010 at 8:50pm
|
|
|
|
I am currently in line for an IRS job, and they are conducting the background check. I filed, and received, a Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2007. I am currently receiving unemployment compensation, and have approximately 6k in student loans, (I went back to school part time and continued looking for employment when I lost my job almost 2 years ago). Will these affect my background check and security clearance? Thank you. |
|
|
|
|
Dawn (Ohio) on September 21, 2010 at 12:01pm
|
|
|
|
SS (MD),
It is very rare that a clearance is denied for civil court actions, unless it is determined that you filed a suit maliciously or fraudulently. I do not see that as the case as you have presented it. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on September 21, 2010 at 8:55am
|
|
|
|
TM (MD),
The final answer is, unfortunately, is maybe. It all depends on the issues involved in why your clearance was suspended. Eventually, the Navy adjudication facility will know you were discharged and will enter a “loss of jurisdiction” in JPAS. That will alert future DoD employers there is a problem with your clearance. I suggest you be upfront with prospective employers about what happened. If anyone wants your skills bad enough, they may hire you (possibly without pay) contingent upon a favorable resolution of your clearance issue. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on September 21, 2010 at 8:52am
|
|
|
|
I am currently a candidate for a job with the gov. in contracts. I am worried about getting my secret clearance. I have a low credit score of 524. Since I divorced, I have been struggling, being a single mom and a full time student and have been late on my credit cards. I have had three of them go to collections but all have been paid now. I have about 70K in student loans and a car payment. I even had one of my student loans go into collections because I didn't realized it didn't go into suspension when I started school again. Will I still be eligible for a secret clearance? I'm 35 now and really need a job to get my life back on track. |
|
|
|
|
Stressed Out (California) on September 20, 2010 at 10:37pm
|
|
|
|
san (nyc): I left out "not" between "should" and "have." |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 19, 2010 at 2:59pm
|
|
|
|
san (nyc):
As long as you continue paying your debts on time, you should have any problem getting a security clearance because of "financial considerations." |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 19, 2010 at 2:57pm
|
|
|
|
I am also going through the process of getting a TS security clearance and I am worried I will be denied due to "public record civil court actions question" on the SF86 form.
My problem is I was filled a case on the real estate broker to return the real estate commission money which was taken from the sale price (deposit). Since sale was null (not executed) I ask broker to return my escrow money which he did not and I filed case on real estate broker. Case was dismissed later (closed).
Would this deny my clearance? Other than this I do not have any issues (credit, late payment etc).
Thanks in advance for any advice. |
|
|
|
|
ss (MD) on September 19, 2010 at 10:25am
|
|
|
|
I recently got out of the Navy and when I tried to get a job requiring a clearance they told that my access was suspended. I would like to know would i still be able to get a clearance some day in the future. |
|
|
|
|
tm (maryland) on September 18, 2010 at 9:12am
|
|
|
|
Jay (NJ),
The quick answer is – you will probably get a TS clearance. It appears that you have done everything reasonable to resolve this situation, specifically, the condition/situation was largely beyond your control and you have made a good-faith effort to resolve the debt.. Important to note that you should document any/all contact with the mortgage company showing your efforts to contact them and resolve any debt. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on September 14, 2010 at 11:53am
|
|
|
|
AA (AZ),
Unless you are in a position involving budgeting, accounts receivable, etc, I do not see how a foreclosure would result in a termination. Since you don’t have a clearance, you should question your HR office on company policies. Your FSO can only address what will affect a clearance eligibility. In the current financial situation in the U.S., a foreclosure does not guarantee a clearance revocation. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on September 14, 2010 at 11:47am
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I have received an offer for a job requiring Secret clearance. I have good credit (score 750), but substantial debt: about $70,000 in student loans and another $10,000 on my credit card (I am currently a few hundred below my limit but went over for about 2 weeks last month). I am recently out of graduate school (I'm 25 and received my master's in 2008)
Can this affect my ability to get Secret clearance? I have never missed or been late for a payment on any of the aforementioned debts. No collections or anything of that nature - just a lot of debt. |
|
|
|
|
san (nyc) on September 12, 2010 at 12:32pm
|
|
|
|
JAY (New jersey):
Because of the circumstances you described, I think you have a reasonable chance of getting a TS clearance if you continue to make efforts to pay off any remaining debt. Keep a copy of all correspondence and make memos for the record regarding telephone calls (include dates, names, and a gist of the conversations). |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 11, 2010 at 5:36pm
|
|
|
|
AA (Arizona):
I can understand a situation where an employer might fire an employee who was denied a clearance or had a clearance revoked due to financial problems, but firing someone who doesn’t require a government clearance because of a foreclosure has nothing to do with any government security requirement imposed upon the company.
People with security clearances are required to immediately notify their company security officer regarding any potentially disqualifying condition for a clearance. Inability or unwillingness to pay your debts is a potentially disqualifying condition. The security officer is required to immediately submit an “incident report” concerning the matter to the cognizant government security office. This will result a review of the situation and a determination by the government agency to suspend, revoke, or continue the security clearance. They are not going to wait until the next periodic reinvestigation to address the matter. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 11, 2010 at 5:30pm
|
|
|
|
Renee (MD):
Sounds like your job was contingent on getting an interim clearance. Interim Secret clearance determinations are made based on a review of the SF86 (eQIP) and a check of a couple of government security clearance databases. This occurs before the investigation is initiated. If you listed financial problems on the SF86, that could have been enough to result in the declination of an interim clearance. Government agencies are not required to advise applicants of the reason for an interim clearance declination. If you were told that the reason was financial, your company security officer was probably making an educated guess based on what he/she saw when reviewing your SF86. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 11, 2010 at 5:20pm
|
|
|
|
anonymous (kansas):
You have a fair chance of being granted a final security clearance, but federal employment suitability may be a bigger problem if the job you have been offered involves any fiduciary responsibility. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on September 11, 2010 at 5:13pm
|
|
|
|
4 years ago I got out of the army and got a decent paying job. So I went ahead and bought a house. A year after I got the house I was called back to active duty. I knew once I had to report again I wasn't going to be able to afford the mortgage. I went ahead and put the house on the market. I had the house for a year and now I'm getting ready for deploy.
The house was on the market for a year and I was going into debt because I was trying to make the payments so I wouldn't hurt my credit. So I asked my mortgage company to do a short sale. The mortgage company told me the only way I would be allowed to do a short sale is if I stopped paying my mortgage. SO I stopped.
Today (2 years later) the short sale fell through with no buyers and 2 years of late payments I'm finally getting out of the army and I am doing a Deed in Lieu. I was offered a job opportunity that requires me to have a Top Secret Security Clearance.
My bank told me that my credit report will say sold less for what its worth and the late payments will remain. I was trying to do an agreement with my bank to let me do a monthly payments on the late fees till its paid off but can you remove the late fees for me so I can get a job. All they do is ignore me. I'm still trying to work out this situation. I don't wait this to hurt me because it was out of my control. I have no other debt other than a car bill and I have NEVER been late on anything else.
Is there a way for me to get a top Secret Security Clearance? |
|
|
|
|
JAY (New jersey) on September 10, 2010 at 1:29pm
|
|
|
|
The job I have does not require a clearance, but the company I work for does (secret). I've been told that foreclosures will result in loss of employment, but I've also been told by someone in charge of security clearances that while foreclosures throw up a red flag, they only review once every 10 years, so it's unlikely for a newer employee to lose their job if they foreclose now. |
|
|
|
|
AA (Arizona) on September 9, 2010 at 9:44pm
|
|
|
|
I got a contractor position, but didn't start the e-qip process until a week later. I was working in the dept. and 3wks later was requested to do my fingerprints. A week later I was still waiting to get a clearance or interim. I never met with an S.I. and never and was told that because my information wasn't back that they would have to terminate me. What happened? I was told it was financial but never met with anyone to determine that. |
|
|
|
|
Renee (MD) on September 7, 2010 at 6:13pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I have recently received an offer of employment on a federal job and I have had some credit troubles the past four years and am wondering if this is something I should be worrying about.
I have 3 Credit Cards that are current now and have been for most of the past 3 years, but have gone 60, 90 and 180 days past due, but with all that was partially due to the payment plan I entered into. The cumulative total is less than 5k.
I have went past due on a student loan approx. 5 separate times, but am current now.
I have perpetually been 30 days late on my car payment for the past two years, but it is finally paid off now. This was my largest financial obligation and it is completely gone.
I have two collection accounts totaling less than 500, I am paying those off immediately. |
|
|
|
|
anonymous (kansas) on September 7, 2010 at 6:43am
William Henderson on September 3, 2010 at 4:33pm
|
|
|
|
I have a contingent offer requiring a top secret clearance. I have a chapter 13 dismissed 2 years ago. I have a few small charge offs and a couple small delinquent accounts. I also am in the process of modifying my mortgage for the second time. It showing past 120 days late on my credit report. I am in the process of calling all of my creditors who I owe and workout a payment plan. What are the odds of me acquiring a ts clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Anxious (PA) on August 31, 2010 at 3:16pm
|
|
|
|
Ben (FL),
First of all, your “employer” can not revoke your clearance eligibility. Only an adjudication facility can. However, if your employer/supervisor is inundated with calls from creditors, they can suspend your access pending investigation and re-adjudication. In my opinion, if you were granted with the info on your foreclosure known to the adjudication facility, I do not think a revocation is in your future. I suggest you maintain your good credit standing and work with the mortgage company to minimize any debt that may be assigned to you upon completion of the foreclosure process. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on August 31, 2010 at 12:42pm
|
|
|
|
I currently hold a secret security clearance that was issued in May 2009. I am currently in a foreclosure status for my house because of my recent divorce. I voluntarily stated this situation during my application and I was granted the clearance anyway. If my foreclosure become finalized, is that a reason for my employer to revoke my clearance. I have no other issues with debts, I am current with all of them and they are just a couple of credit cards and student loans. |
|
|
|
|
Ben (Florida) on August 27, 2010 at 6:24pm
|
|
|
|
Onyximo (MS):
If all of your financial problems came about solely because of your unemployment, I think you have a reasonably good chance of being granted a final TS/SCI. Interim SCI is less likely because of your past credit problems. Even in completely clean cases interim SCI depends on the agency and whether there is a critical need for an applicant's services. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 26, 2010 at 1:18pm
|
|
|
|
James Walker,
Yes, the debt for $8k will have an impact on your investigation/clearance determination. Disputing the debt is a good first step. If the credit bureau responds that the debt is valid, the next step would be to contact the company and ask for documents regarding the debt (when established, where it came from, etc). Their response may give you a clue as far as whether it is yours or you were a co-signer, or possibly identity theft. The mitigating factor for this is your “good faith effort” to contact the creditor, establish responsibility and resolve the debt, whether it is reassigned to another party; already paid to the original creditor; you create a payment plan, etc. The smaller debts you cited are not a factor. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on August 26, 2010 at 12:20pm
|
|
|
|
To add to my previous entry... I have laid every single thing out on my clearance application. EVERYTHING. Any debts, child support, past debts, paid debts, unpaid, and anything else they asked about. I had called about traffic tickets I received on traffic cameras and found they were dismissed (faulty cameras) and I even told them about that.
I was completely honest. If it asked for birthmarks I would have put it! I would LIKE to be assured that I'm freaking out for nothing. However, I WANT to know if I should be freaking out more or less.
Again, thank you for any help! |
|
|
|
|
James Walker ((San Diego, CA)) on August 24, 2010 at 5:23pm
|
|
|
|
Am I too nervous or just enough?
I am currently in a job requiring a Secret clearance for the Navy. I am Active Duty and on an Interim clearance. However, I just finished my E-QIP and my security officer is releasing it today. I don't have any bankruptcies on my credit report.
There are a few things that are negative though. Most of the few (7) "potentially negative" items are either a $0.00/paid or add up to just under $1400.
The 7 items are:
-1 I am trying to dispute for $220 or so.
One I am making payments on with a $540 balance left.
-1 that I do not know of for just over $600.
-1 That I found was paid but not reported for just over $200 (did not count this in the total.
There are three others that have a $0.00/"paid collection" items.
-1 since 2004,
-1 since 11/2009 (unknown from "CRD PRT ASSO"), and
-1 since 2008 (which is also the $540 one that I'm paying)
I would Imagine that with a long list of current and past debts that are being paid on time and with a good 1-2+ years of the history that the above mentioned "potentially negative" ones should be understood.
Is that a fair assumption?
If you've read this far then you may notice one missing. The last one is what I'm worried about
it is for "KIMBALL TIREY STJOHN" and it's for $8,576! I have no idea who or what it's for. I've submitted an online dispute, but, I'm worried. It's been there since early 2004 and report says: "Experian-Seriously past due, Equifax-Unpaid, TransUnion-Collection".
Is this going to kill me on my clearance? As I said before, I have plenty of current loans (secured and unsecured) being paid and current in good standing. That last one freaks me out! I love my job and duty station very much and I would never do anything to compromise it. What is your take?
I hope this isn't too big also....
-James |
|
|
|
|
James Walker ((San Diego, CA)) on August 24, 2010 at 5:14pm
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson.
What do you think my chances are for an interim and full TS/SCI. (Up for a DoD contracting position).
For the past year I have had some fairly serious credit issues initiated by several months unemployment. Had 5-6 collections, 4-5, sporadic 90-180 late periods indicated, 2 public records one for a tax lien erroneously placed, and about 12,000 total delinquent debts until the early part of the year where I paid in full or settled ALL delinquent debts included the 2 public records where one was released. I have documentation and receipts for all settlements/pay-offs and records of financial counseling/plan of actions from a federally recognized financial consultant.
As of almost a year I have no delinquent debts and all other installment loans (45k in student loans, car loan) indicate paid as agreed or deferment. I also have current copies of all 3 credit reports indicating no delinquencies. I also was fired last year from a company that went bankrupt 1 month afterwards. (The termination wasn't for performance but a mistake they admit on their part by hiring the skill set that didn't apply to their project). Never did drugs and never been arrested or misdemeanors. I currently make 6 figures and live well within my means according to the financial consultant. Am I doomed? |
|
|
|
|
Onyximo (MS) on August 18, 2010 at 1:33pm
|
|
|
|
Mr Henderson,
You were absolutely right! They denied my interim, but informed me that I am still a candidate, but it will take longer to process my background check. Hopefully, it will clear and I will be able to go to work. Thanks again for your informative answers! Very Helpful! |
|
|
|
|
Terry (Marshfield) on August 16, 2010 at 8:45am
|
|
|
|
I have a contingent offer requiring a top secret clearance. I have a chapter 13 dismissed 2 years ago. I have a few small charge offs and a couple small delinquent accounts. I also am in the process of modifying my mortgage for the second time. It showing past 120 days late on my credit report. I am in the process of calling all of my creditors who I owe and workout a payment plan. What are the odds of me acquiring a ts clearance? |
|
|
|
|
Droi (PA) on August 14, 2010 at 10:07pm
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
Thanks very much for your straightforward answers! I will just wait and see what they say, if anything. Wish me luck. |
|
|
|
|
Terry (Marshfield) on August 13, 2010 at 5:49am
|
|
|
|
Jody Sanchez (DC):
Sorry but I am unable to answer questions about DHS security clearance processing, because DHS is not a monolithic agency. Many of its component agencies do things on their own and do them differently. If the adjudicative office is asking for more information after the investigation was completed, that's a good sign. I assume you already went through a SPIN and the investigation was closed. I can't give you an opinion about your chance of getting a clearance because you provided way too little information. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 10, 2010 at 8:21pm
|
|
|
|
Terry (Marshfield):
It's a good thing you gave the investigator as much info as you could. Unfortunately for a contractor MRPT position federal agencies are not required by any overarching government regulation to give any reason for an adverse "fitness" determination, and there is no right to rebut or appeal an adverse determination. Some agencies will advise an applicant of why they were not considered "fit" for the position and offer them a chance to rebut, but it's strictly based on an internal agency policy. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 10, 2010 at 8:11pm
|
|
|
|
Hello,
I am in the middle of receiving a secret clearance for a position with DHS. I have financial delinquencies that are under 2k but I had two repos where one amounted to 11K. I sent information to PSU showing that I am with a debt consolidation company and I have been able to remove some items off of my report due to errors by the collection agency. I was laid off from 2009 until now and I am finishing my degree in Accounting with almost a 4.0 GPA. I can always wait to be rehired for this fall/winter with the company, but I want a solid career path that the GOVT can provide. Do you think that I can be granted the secret clearance? Do you know how long it may take for me to receive my clearance from submitting the required information to the Personnel Security Specialist? Thank you for your time. |
|
|
|
|
Jody Sanchez (DC) on August 7, 2010 at 5:56pm
|
|
|
|
"There are procedural differences in MRPT positions depending on the status of the position. Is it "competitive service," "excepted service," "temporary," or a contractor position?"
Mr. Henderson, Thanks again for your answer! It is for a contractor position. I saw the investigator Monday and provided everything I could that showed our bankruptcy stems from the loss of our travel related business that went down the tubes after 2008. I can only hope for the best. Wish me luck. |
|
|
|
|
Terry (Marshfield) on August 7, 2010 at 3:35pm
|
|
|
|
Shane (Iraq),
Your scenario is confusing in that you state you are currently cleared by DOS and are transferring to DOS. Anyway, the “theory” is that if you are transferring within the government at the same clearance level, you should not be subject to an additional investigation. In “reality”, some agencies continue to conduct new/duplicate investigations anyway. Also, if you are going from military to a civilian status, a new investigation is normally required. In my opinion, if your credit report is good when the investigating authorities check it, you should not have a problem having your clearance re-granted. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on August 5, 2010 at 9:45am
|
|
|
|
I'm currently working under a DOS clearance. My clearance was granted to me 07/2010. I'm now transfering over to a DOS clearance. I had some credit issues that occured over 7 years ago, but they are still haunting me a little bit. I paid in full my collections and have good history for the past 4 years or so, but I'm wondering if the things in the past would prevent me from getting a DOS interim clearance. |
|
|
|
|
shane (Iraq) on August 4, 2010 at 6:00am
|
|
|
|
Terry (Marshfield):
There are procedural differences in MRPT positions depending on the status of the position. Is it "competitive service," "excepted service," "temporary," or a contractor position? Agencies can be rather arbitrary in deciding cases for all categories except "competitive service" appointments. Also every position can has job-specific suitability criteria (i.e. absolutely no prior tax problems for IRS agents). See my article on "Employment Suitability Versus Security Clearance" post on this website. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on August 3, 2010 at 1:25pm
|
|
|
|
UNCSHOOTER4 (Fort Bragg),
The key to your situation will be the status of your finances when your credit report is conducted. If your accounts are listed as current, paying as agreed or a similar status, you should have no problem being granted TS/SCI. However, if the accounts read past due, placed for collection or a similar status, you will be interviewed specifically about your finances and the companies will be checked individually, causing your investigation to be longer to completion. I recommend you get a copy of your credit report from the 3 major reporting agencies to see what they say before you complete your SF 86y/eQIP. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on August 3, 2010 at 9:04am
|
|
|
|
Due to popular demand and our rapid growth, we launched a new private security clearance question and answer service. Our new service grants the following:
* Complete privacy – your questions answered out of public view
* Priority service – your questions get answered first, before our blog and with no delays
* Complete answers – your questions receive detailed answers with references and links where applicable
* Guaranteed answers - your questions are guaranteed to be answered
Find out more: http://www.clearancejobsblog.com/new-security-clearance-question-and-answer-service |
|
|
|
|
Eric (ClearanceJobs.com) on August 2, 2010 at 1:35pm
|
|
|
|
I am going to be up for reinvestigation soon and was needing some information. I had a vehicle repossesed about 8 months ago, and the day after it was repo I paid all the debt off and the fines associated. Since I have not been late. I also fell behind 2 months on my mortgage, but have been trying to pay back since. Will I have a problems getting a TS-SCI? I have only been late those times. |
|
|
|
|
UNCSHOOTER4 (Fort Bragg NC) on August 2, 2010 at 9:47am
|
|
|
|
Mr Henderson,
Thanks for your answer! Actually, I filled out an SF85P on e-Qip. I was contacted by the DOS investigator and am meeting with him Monday. I have put together a list of all our debts and some evidence showing the that the bankruptcy stems from our failed business. We have never had bad credit or been behind on anything in our lives. Our record is clean until now. Do you think it will still be possible to get cleared to go overseas? I forgot to mention that this investigation if for my MRPT. Thanks |
|
|
|
|
Terry (Marshfield) on July 30, 2010 at 7:38am
|
|
|
|
I bought a house in 2006 at the end of the housing bubble. I lived there until 2009 when I bought a 2nd much cheaper house and stopped paying and tried to short sell the 1st one. 15 months have passed and I have not been able to short sell the house and it will most likely go into foreclosure. All my other debts are current and I wont be hit with a deficiency judgment. Is there any possibility in keeping my security clearance? |
|
|
|
|
RM (San Diego) on July 26, 2010 at 1:11pm
|
|
|
|
Logan (Hawaii):
I’d like to know what your bankruptcy lawyer is basing his/her opinion on.
Most federal agencies (including DOD) require a person with a security clearance to prompt report any potentially disqualifying condition listed in the Adjudicative Guidelines.
The Adjudicative Guidelines does not list a bankruptcy per se as a potentially disqualifying condition, but it does list “inability or unwillingness to satisfy debts.” People who file for bankruptcy do so because they are unable to satisfy their debts.
If you report your bankruptcy tomorrow, your clearance could be suspended and ultimately revoked, but whether or not this happens depends on all the circumstances surrounding your bankruptcy. Loss of income due to a spouse’s loss of a job is a mitigating condition. Failure to disclose relevant information as required by security regulations is also a potentially disqualifying condition, but this can also be mitigated when it occurs due to improper advice from legal counsel. No one can predict with 100% accuracy what will happen in your case. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 23, 2010 at 4:18pm
|
|
|
|
Mel (Florida):
Yes, your clearance can be revoked because of foreclosure, but it depends on the circumstances surrounding the foreclosure, including any deficiency balance. Because you use the term “strategically default,” I assume you are able to make the mortgage payments, but would prefer to let the mortgage lender take the loss. In my opinion this is a lot worse than if you had to move to another city, you couldn’t sell the house, and the foreclosure was unavoidable. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 23, 2010 at 3:46pm
|
|
|
|
Ronnie (Baltimore , MD):
An SF85 is used for an NACI investigation. NACIs are for federal employment suitability determinations for positions designated as non-sensitve and for anyone requiring an HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card for access to federal facilities and computer systems. The SF85 is not used for national security clearances. I don’t think your situtation would result in the denial of a PIV card or federal employment, but I’m not sure because these types of determinations are usually made at local or regional HR offices using different standards than those used by Central Adjudication Facilities for security clearances. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 23, 2010 at 3:33pm
|
|
|
|
I currently have a clearnance and had to file Ch.13 in 2008. Spouse lost job and was trying to make ends meet by taking equity from the house and "working" selling braclets then tried to do sell medical insurance. Eventually I saw that things were going to heck so I forced my spouse to agree to Ch. 13. It's 2010 and I still have not reported this, I want to but my spouse is afraid I will lose my job and "besides the lawyer said we didnt have to". My question is if I go in tomorrow and report this, what will happen to me? |
|
|
|
|
Logan (Hawaii) on July 23, 2010 at 3:11am
|
|
|
|
I have a secret clearance. If I strategically default, can I lose my security clearance? The housing market is HORRIBLE in FL and I owe about $120K more than the house is worth. I don't care about bad credit for 7 yrs, because I am paying down other bills in preparation for strategic default. I just don't want to lose my clearance. |
|
|
|
|
Mel (Florida) on July 22, 2010 at 7:44pm
|
|
|
|
William,
If a person owes the IRS a balance of 2,400, but enrolls in a payment plan will this prevent an indivdual passing a SF85 clearance if the account is not deliquent? |
|
|
|
|
Ronnie (Baltimore , MD) on July 22, 2010 at 10:39am
|
|
|
|
Terry (Marshfield, MO):
There are no financial questions on an SF85. Not sure why you would have filled out an SF85. Whether or not you are granted a TS clearance depends on the circumstances surrrounding both issues. With a recent bankruptcy an interim clearance isn't likely. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 20, 2010 at 5:13pm
|
|
|
|
EGEMINI (San Francisco):
Probably not, unless there is a deficiency balance that doesn't get paid. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 20, 2010 at 5:03pm
|
|
|
|
My friend has been a Federal Agent for over 10 years and now going through a divorce. Will a short sale on there home hurt his top secret clearance? Never had financial problems and perfect credit.
Thanks!! |
|
|
|
|
EGEMINI (San Francisco) on July 13, 2010 at 3:17pm
|
|
|
|
I was given a contingent job offer from the DHS to work as a Policy Advisor for the Office of Health Affairs. I must be able to obtain a TS clearance. The problem is that I have had steadily declining income over the past 3 years, all of which occurred after I made a large purchase. This has caused me to only recently fall behind on my debts, but I have set up payment plans with all of the creditors who show me as delinquent--roughly about 9,000 in debts. I have discussed settlements with the credit card companies, and it will cost me about $5,000 to pay these debts off. I plan to pay these off with my student loans in September, so the debt would be resolved before my EOD. I am really worried. I explained everything in the eQIP, but I fear that it's a lost cause. What do you think? |
|
|
|
|
WorriedinFL (Tallahassee, FL) on July 13, 2010 at 1:45pm
|
|
|
|
I am a retired Federal Correctional Officer trying to obtain a TS for contract work in Afghanistan. We owned a business that failed and resulted in bankruptcy. Our personal credit was affected, though most was business related. Not 180 days behind on anything yet. Bankruptcy just filed within the last week. Also have a sustained excessive use of force and failure to report that was reduced to failure to report in-house by the Warden. Will either of these factors keep me from obtaining TS clearance? Never had bad credit in my life nor have I ever been reprimanded.
I probably should add that the excessive use of force was reduced in-house to a letter of reprimand regarding reporting issues. The Warden actually pulled the letter after 2 months and has written a very positive letter regarding my character. Anyway, I have filled out all the forms including the SF85, which does not ask for anything other than credit. Now I am wondering if when it comes time to fill out the SF86, will they somehow deny me a clearance? Thanks for your time. |
|
|
|
|
Terry (Marshfield, MO) on July 12, 2010 at 10:11pm
|
|
|
|
SR (Miami, Fl):
None of the financial problems you described will result in the denial of a final clearance and you probably have a good chance of getting an interim clearance. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on July 8, 2010 at 7:36pm
|
|
|
|
SR (Miami, FL),
When OPM conducts your credit report check, if the debts are listed as current, paid, or previously delinquent – now current, you should have no problem being granted TS eligibility. I always recommended to employees/applicants who were submitting an eQIP that they obtain a credit report on their own to make sure it had been updated. Often, collection agencies receive payment for debts they have obtained from other creditors and do not update the credit report with the current status of the debt. During your personal interview, the investigator should have a copy of the OPM requested credit report and will discuss any problem accounts with you. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on July 8, 2010 at 9:02am
|
|
|
|
I am currently up for a Top Secret clearance and I am worried about my previous financial situation. While I was in college, there were a few times that I would either forget to pay a certain bill or didn't have enough to pay it and it resulted in a few "30 days overdue" notifications on my credit report. There were also 1 "60 days" and another "90 days". Additionally, I had one cell phone bill sent to collections. ALL OF THESE HAVE BEEN PAID OFF COMPLETELY and I am in good standing with all of my debts. What are my chances? |
|
|
|
|
SR (Miami, Fl) on July 2, 2010 at 12:19pm
|
|
|
|
jacob (DC):
Because you are now "paying as agreed," it shouldn't result in the denial of a PT position, but that's only my guess. The important questions is, "why were you 4 months behind in paying your mortgage?" There's a big difference between have a delinquent debt because of unexpected medical bills and because of gambling losses.
I can only guess about employment suitability decisions because there are no published case decisions and because there are big differences in the interpretation of employment suitability criteria from one agency's HR office to another agency's HR office. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on June 29, 2010 at 6:46pm
|
|
|
|
l was a contractor with clearance and now just got offered a federal job which is a public trust position.l am 180 days late on my mortgage . l was 4 months late but when went to the banks for loan modification they asked me to start paying the trial period two months later which made me 6 months late .l told the interviewer about it and how l am paying now and hoping to get the modification to bring me current.will that lead to my denial ?
thanks |
|
|
|
|
jacob (dc) on June 28, 2010 at 6:11pm
|
|
|
|
Bev,
The bottom line is that I think your chances for TS are good and for the SCI (I assume for an intel community (IC) agency) are fair to good. Even though the adjudicative guidelines are about 98% the same, the IC agencies look at some areas harder. Your spouse’s gambling is beyond your control (unless you are facilitating it) and you seem to be acting in good faith to resolve or manage your debts, both mitigating factors for clearance eligibility. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on June 4, 2010 at 8:58am
|
|
|
|
M.S.H. (Hawaii),
I suggest your husband obtain a credit report in his name. If any of these accounts are listed because he is a co-debtor, co-signer or authorized user, they could affect his clearance and need attention now. If they are not listed, it should not affect his clearance eligibility and you can resolve as you see fit. However, if you enter a debt consolidation agreement, and he is required to sign it by the agency, he (probably) legally assumes responsibility for part of the debt. Be careful when dealing with these agencies and make sure you use a reputable one. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on June 4, 2010 at 8:44am
|
|
|
|
ZA (Virginia):
Check with your security officer. When you self-reported your bankruptcy last summer, your security officer should have submitted an “incident report” on you and the incident report should have been posted to your security clearance database record. If your clearance database record no longer shows the incident report, it means that the matter was reviewed and favorably adjudicated. If this is the case and you have not had any subsequent financial problems and your clearance database record shows no “conditions,” “deviations,” or “waivers,” the whole matter should be behind you and your chance of getting a TS/SCI is good. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on May 30, 2010 at 1:31pm
|
|
|
|
Applying for TS/SCI. I have a few issues since last SF86. Spouse's excessive gambling put us in debt. Settled a lot of charge off's. Making monthly payments on two charge-off debts. Defaulted on student loans, currently in the student loan rehabilitation program, will be out of default status in 2 months. Had some returned checks, all paid. Filed my 07 and 08 taxes late, in repayment program with IRS. Vehicle repossessed in 07, settled debt. I have a good budget that reflects I am living within my means and making regular payments on all debts. What are my chances? |
|
|
|
|
Bev on May 27, 2010 at 6:11pm
|
|
|
|
I am seeking a position with a FEMA contractor that requires a Public Trust clearance. I'm concerned about several issues. I have a delinquent tax debt that I have not yet made any payment arrangements or an agreement on. Its approx. 10,000 and I am seeking an attorney to dispute it. In addition,
I co-signed on several business loans for approximately $50,000, that are now delinquent and in collections. One of these items has become a civil lawsuit. Must I reveal business debt for this clearance? The recession took a big bite out of a lot of us, and the job I seek will help me repay these obligations, but I'm concerned I wont be offered the job due to them. Any feedback is appreciated. Thank you. |
|
|
|
|
FirstResponder (US) on May 27, 2010 at 1:18pm
|
|
|
|
I've been trying to search for information regarding debt negotiation and how it can affect security clearance.
My husband is a civilian employee for DOD, and the debt we have is under my name, not his. I have credit card debt, and it's not under my husband's name. I'm considering debt negotiation to deal with my debt, but I am unsure whether it will affect HIS security clearance? If the debt doesn't show on HIS Credit Report, can I take care of this debt on my own?
The debt is my responsibility, and I don't want it to cause my husband any trouble. It seems that debt negotiation will be the quickest way to deal with the debt, but if it could affect his security clearance, I will go the route of debt consolidation instead.
Does anyone have an answer for me? I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks! |
|
|
|
|
M. S. H. (Hawaii) on May 20, 2010 at 4:33pm
|
|
|
|
I am currently a Gov. Contracts Specialist holding a Secret clearance. I was doing fine up until my husband passed away from Cancer in 2007. Since his passing I had been trying to hold on to no avail and finally had to file ch13 bk in July 09. I did notify my command Sec Off and let him know the circumstances that brought me to file. Prior to that, no delinquencies, etc.
Fast forward to now, I am in the running to become a Contracting Officer (GS13) which requires a TS/SCI clearance. I was wanting to know what my chances are of getting clearance approved at that level? Thank you in advance for any insight. |
|
|
|
|
ZA (Virginia) on May 18, 2010 at 6:45pm
|
|
|
|
Hello Bill I have a question, please advise and thank you in advance.
I just accepted a tentative selection offer on Friday (May 14, 2010) with the DHS I.C.E. for a Management and Program analyst position GS-13. I was told that I may be required to undergo a background investigation before I start and I would receive an EOD giving me my effective date.
First just a little background, I am retired military and in 1988 had a TS for 10 years. In 2006, right before I retired, I applied for and was approved for a Secret clearance. I tried marijuana many years ago, maybe 14 or 15 years of age (so long ago not sure) no other drug. Impeccable military career, (White House Presidential guard – Law Enforcement – Infantry), no criminal charges or reports nothing! (two speeding tickets – over 15 years ago – nothing else).
March 2004 I was discharged from a chapter 7. The bankruptcy was because I owned a retail dollar store and was about to get out of the military, until 9/11, then stop loss prevented me from getting out and I received orders overseas. Long story short I lost my business and house and filed for and was approved for a chapter 7. Since then I had reestablished my credit, purchased three homes (only have one now) and was not late on any payments until Feb and March of 2010 (late on two house payments-they are not delinquent – paid late fee and caught back up). April and May’s payment were on time. I lost my job June 2009 (corporate cutbacks – spun into a termination) and have been seeking work, going to school and volunteering since then.
My excuse for not paying the two bills on time was that I was short on money and had to have money wired from another account which took longer than expected. However, again I do not foresee this to happen again.
My criminal and drug background is spotless (no exaggeration). Based off of the limited info that I provided, do you think that I have a chance to successful pass a background check for this position or am I getting my hopes up and should continue to job search? And what kind of background check will they complete on me? Thank you for your help. |
|
|
|
|
Need Help (Michigan) on May 18, 2010 at 1:30pm
|
|
|
|
Cody Archer,
Yes, a debt to the IRS is a problem unless he has made a repayment agreement and is in compliance. If he borrows the money from you, that is between you and him, but someone may ask where he got the money and what influence you have over him for repayment. The questions will arise if the debt is not cleared on his credit report, so waiting until just prior to submitted the eQIP will probably not help as the credit report may not be updated fast enough.
P.S. Got any extra to loan me? :) |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on April 29, 2010 at 2:28pm
|
|
|
|
NB (New Mexico),
A paid tax debt should not be a problem for a Public Trust Position. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on April 29, 2010 at 2:22pm
|
|
|
|
Jackie (FL) and Renee (NC),
I am sorry for your situation. I can tell you this – unpaid or delinquent debts are a security clearance issue. However, adjudicators do consider the causes for the debts. The most important mitigation in your spouses’ situation is “the conditions that resulted in the financial problem were largely beyond the person’s control…and the person acted responsibly under the circumstances”. Adjudicators see many, many cases similar to this and clearly recognize the underlying reasons. How you and your spouse handle the debt (bankruptcy, foreclosure, etc) is up to you. Just keep copies of all pertinent documents to provide to the investigator or adjudicator if requested. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on April 29, 2010 at 2:20pm
|
|
|
|
Sally (WV),
If your name was not on the bankruptcy petition, I do not think you need to report it. If your name was included in the petition, you should report it to your security manager. Your security manager was at fault for not briefing you on this self-reporting requirement when you first received access to classified information. When adjudicators look at financial issues, especially bankruptcy, they look at the causes of the bankruptcy and whether the causes were out of your control. It sounds like your situation is common for the current economy. I do not think your clearance will be adversely affected by the bankruptcy or your failure to report it sooner. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on April 29, 2010 at 9:36am
|
|
|
|
RJ (Los Angles),
Technically, HR is correct in that you have not had a 24 month break in federal service since retirement. However, if your military clearance was based on a NACLC or less, The SF 86 will be used to conduct a new employment investigation (ANACI) which is the basic, minimum investigation required for civilian employees. Also, a caveat to the break in service is that no suitability information is developed since your retirement. When you honestly complete your SF 86/eQIP and acknowledge your debt, your employing agency can submit the SF 86 to OPM to conduct an appropriate investigation and resolve this issue. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on April 29, 2010 at 9:31am
|
|
|
|
I have just been selected for a position with the DOD. When I retired (USN) in '08 from the same place I had an active SC that was conducted in '07. I am at the 21 month mark of it being inactive. I have to do a SF86 due to procedure.
In '08 I was upside down by over 200K and the ARM had reset which forced me to walk away because the GMAC refused a loan mod and short sale. I pulled the CR the foreclosure is there and there is 1 CC charge off that does not belong to me. What are my chances of getting hired.
I have been told by HR that since the SC is inactive and under 24 months that no check will be required and that it will be just reactivated. Any assistance or advice? |
|
|
|
|
RJ (Los Angeles) on April 15, 2010 at 7:24pm
|
|
|
|
I have a Secret clearance with the DHS. I have had my job for a little over 1 year. I just recently took for the first time a class regarding security clearances and found out that I am required to contact the security clearance people to report any financial changes. (I was never told this before). I had to file bankruptcy in the last year because my husband was in business as a small home-builder and due to the huge downturn in the housing market he ended up having to sell his last home in a short sale and he had business debt that he couldn't pay. Some of his business loans had used our personal home as collateral and we were faced with losing our home.
Anyway this took place shortly after my hire and I have not reported it because I didn't know I was supposed to. Should I report it now? Will I lose my job for not having reported it? Will I lose my job anyway for having filed bankruptcy? We had no choice. |
|
|
|
|
Sally (WV) on April 12, 2010 at 6:32pm
|
|
|
|
I am in the same boat as Renee in NC. A beautiful pool home in FL substantially underwater which is 4 years old and unsellable, a husband totally disabled and on SS Disability, and me looking at a transfer out of state which is necessary to have an income. I was laid off in VA several years ago from a leading defense contractor. Went to a major retailer to have a paycheck and was sent to FL, then laid off and out of work for 12 months until I managed to find a temp job. The only way I can see to continue to pay off medical bills and try to keep our heads above water is to go back to a govt contractor position out of state which requires a security clearance. I had one for over 20 years and never had a concern until now.
Is there any light at the end of that tunnel for average Americans who do the right things and are just trying to make an honest living? |
|
|
|
|
Jackie (Florida) on April 11, 2010 at 2:43pm
|
|
|
|
If I'm applying for an NF III that requires Public Trust Position Questionairre (Form 85P), how problematic is a $600 State Tax lien from last year that has been paid and released? |
|
|
|
|
NB (New Mexico) on April 8, 2010 at 7:28pm
|
|
|
|
After 22 years of active duty service my husband retired from the military. For two years now we have been at a loss of what to do with property owned in Florida. Unable to obtain employment in FL that would pay the mortgage he secured a job with the DOD but in another state. The house is currently underwater with more then twice its current assessed value being owed and an adjustable arm that takes effect in 2013. He MUST retain his TS clearance in order to keep his job and must maintain his credit to keep his clearance. We are out a HUGE amount of money each month trying to pay rent where we live now and pay a mortgage on a house that is worthless despite the fact that it is only a few years old.
We have tried renters and use a property management company to rent the house but rent is not as much as the mortgage and twice have had really bad luck with tenants that do not pay rent or just up and move off and damage the house. Despite the house being in a newer subdivision with a HOA that has high standards, there are LOTS of houses in the subdivision is foreclosed on and all the properties are underwater. The house can not be sold with a short sell since he is NOT behind on the mortgage and that in itself would possible risk his Clarence. Refinancing is not an option since there is clearly no equity in the house since its value has dropped DRAMATICALLY and now assesses for less then half of what it was purchased for.
SO WHAT DO YOU DO when you are drowning in a house that is underwater but you see no way to get out from under this debt without walking away from it all letting it go to foreclosure, or filing bankruptcy, and end up loosing your clearance and everything you have worked your entire life for?????? |
|
|
|
|
Renee (NC) on April 1, 2010 at 5:56pm
|
|
|
|
Great article--Thanks. I have a friend who was just offered a job requiring a secret. He has an issue we are concerned about--First, he has been out of work this past year (like many) and owes the IRS about $10,000 in back taxes. I am wondering if this will be a big problem and if so, if I were to loan him the $10k and pay this off just prior to his submitting the SF-86, would it still be held against him? |
|
|
|
|
Cody Archer (Afghanistan) on April 1, 2010 at 1:20pm
|
|
|
|
D. Nolan:
As I indicated in the article, debt to income ratio rarely becomes an issue unless there is delinquent debt or some other indicator of a person’s inability or unwillingness to pay debts.
I can’t say for certain whether the “short sale” of a property would result in the revocation of a security clearance or disqualification for a Public Trust position. Short sale of property is a relatively new phenomenon, and I haven’t seen any case decisions involving short sales. So either it is not serious enough to result in a DOHA hearing or no cases involving short sales have made their way through the system yet.
My best guess is that if a short sale occurred due to circumstances largely beyond the control of the clearance applicant and the applicant acted honestly and responsibly before, during and after the short sale, it probably would not result in a security clearance denial or revocation. I have seen numerous cases involving applicants who had negotiated settlements on credit card debts (where the creditor accepted less than the amount owed as full payment for the debt) where the applicants received security clearances. I have also seen cases where there were negotiated credit card debt settlements and clearances were denied, but there were other financial problems involved in those cases. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 30, 2010 at 10:14pm
|
|
|
|
CK (San Francisco, CA):
The purpose of the security clearance process is to attempt to predict future conduct based primarily on past and current conduct. If you can show that you corrected your past mistakes, that the mistakes occurred under circumstances that are unlikely to recur, and your judgment and responsibility have improved, you have a good chance of getting a clearance. Your single speeding ticket is not adjudicatively significant. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 30, 2010 at 9:45pm
|
|
|
|
Nate (char n.c.):
Paying off the debts will help, but there is no guarantee that you will get a clearance. If the debt was caused solely by unforseeable medical expenses, then you have a better chance of getting a clearance. An adjudicator will evaluate the reason for your formerly delinquent debts to determine the likelihood of future financial problems. If your past circumstances suggest that the problem is unlikely to recur, it is possible that you could be granted a clearance soon after you pay off the debts. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson on March 30, 2010 at 9:36pm
|
|
|
|
I had an offer to work with a gov contractor, my credit was bad due to lots of medical bills which were my wife's security office did not submit e-qip due to the bills. My parents are willing to help me take care of the bills. Will paying them off now get me the secret clearance, or should I wait six months then reapply showing the debts were paid off prior to applying you the job? |
|
|
|
|
nate (char n.c.) on March 29, 2010 at 7:57pm
|
|
|
|
Hi,
When I was in college I ran into some problem in terms of debt where I was too embarrassed to ask my parents for money but tried to live off of credit but eventually defaulted on 3 CCs. This was about 2 years ago but all the CCs except 1 was settled in collections but all 3 were paid in full thankfully through the help of my family. However now I am applying for a job that requires a security clearance, I have clean credit, I have no criminal history and I have 1 speeding ticket also over 2.5 years ago.
My current credit score is right about 660 and I have really cleaned up all my spending habits and I have a low debt:credit ration. What are my chances of clearing this hurdle? |
|
|
|
|
CK (San Francisco, CA) on March 23, 2010 at 11:39pm
|
|
|
|
Mr. Henderson,
I have two questions regarding your very informative article:
First:
I have zero delinquent debts or black marks on my credit and a credit score in the high 700's. I do, however, have a single credit card with a balance of roughly $15,000 and two business cards in my name totaling approximately $24,000.
In your opinion, does this rate as a high "total debt" in context of security clearance/employment suitability? Will the "high" debt (24k of debt for a business in this climate is relatively low) affect security clearance or employment suitability as a candidate for a job with DHS or will the fact that I have zero delinquent debt negate this?
Second:
I have made every mortgage payment on my home on time and without fail for the past three years owning it. I fear, however, that short selling our home may be the only resolve we have if it continues to drop in value over the next year or two. I would make my mortgage payments on time as I always have until the house was sold, but would a "paid as settled" (short sale) on my credit report affect security clearance or employment suitability in obtaining a clearance job with DHS? If I got the job and short sold my home, could I potentially be terminated for this alone?
Thank you for any info you may have.
D. Nolan |
|
|
|
|
D. Nolan (Orange County, California) on March 13, 2010 at 2:02am
|
|
|
|
Debt to income ratio? That doesn't seem to preclude you from getting massive government bailouts. What you need to do is quite simple; over-leverage yourself (cute way of saying, "put yourself in debt") to the tune of about $100 billion dollars - risk it all in high risk derivative gambles, and see how it all pans out. If you win, your are super rich and your debt-to-income ratio is zero; if you lose, the government comes to the rescue. Either way, you win. |
|
|
|
|
Dubious Maximus (Kandahar, AF) on March 4, 2010 at 12:33pm
|
|
|
|
I have two investment properties whose mortgages are upside down. Foreclosure proceedings have already started on both of them. Would this affect me from meeting DHS suitability.
Thanks
RA |
|
|
|
|
RA (VA) on March 1, 2010 at 3:09pm
|
|
|
|
I have a near perfect credit score, never any deliquencies, and have to relocate across the country. My TS eligibility was just granted. I was thinking about a strategic foreclosure since my house is upside by 45% (not a typo).
The recent debate in the media is all about morality and what-not, but how does a strategic financial decision to take a hit on my credit score, certainly no bankruptcy here, to walk away strategically impact my ability and willingness to handle classified material appropriately?
I guess what I am asking is this: will the adjudicators ever see such actions as a strategic financial decision rather than an inability to pay debt thus being prone to bribes or blackmail etc? Would they now if this was reported immediately and described as such? |
|
|
|
|
Strategic Foreclosures (Gilbert Arizona) on February 19, 2010 at 11:58am
|
|
|
|
I need SC for a job with in my Company. I have horrible credit due to breaking my back a year ago. High medical bills plus the cost of living caught up with us and hurt us. Is It still possible to get the SC. Thank you |
|
|
|
|
JROD (FLORIDA) on February 16, 2010 at 4:06pm
|
|
|
|
I have about $12k in cc debt that's gone to collections. Would a ch. 7 BK discharge of that debt help me get a secret security clearance?
The company would like to hire me except for the financial problems. I accumulated the bad debt over the last four years due to unemployment and a medical emergency. Would a ch. 13 BK be better?
I need the good job to pay off the debt, but I need the debt paid off to get the good job! |
|
|
|
|
jpr (California) on February 11, 2010 at 3:31pm
|
|
|
|
I have a Secret clearance with the DHS. I have had my job for a little over 1 year. I just recently took for the first time a class regarding security clearances and found out that I am required to contact the security clearance people to report any financial changes. (I was never told this before). I had to file bankruptcy in the last year because my husband was in business as a small homebuilder and due to the huge downturn in the housing market he ended up having to sell his last home in a short sale and he had business debt that he couldn't pay. Some of his business loans had used our personal home as collateral and we were faced with losing our home. Anyway this took place shortly after my hire and I have not reported it because I didn't know I was supposed to. Should I report it now? Will I lose my job for not having reported it? Will I lose my job anyway for having filed bankruptcy? We had no choice. |
|
|
|
|
Sally (WV) on February 9, 2010 at 8:35am
|
|
|
|
Ricky A (VA):
When your previous job terminated so did your clearance. Because your Periodic Reinvestigation (PR) had not yet been fully adjudicated, your clearance status changed from “active” to “loss of jurisdication.” Normally it would have changed from “active” to “debriefed/terminated.” Information in your JPAS database record will show your prior investigations and clearance. A prospective employer can take “ownership” of your JPAS record and request that DISCO/DOHA complete its adjudication of your PR, but first they must either hire you or give you a “Conditional Offer of Employment” (an employment offer contigent on you receiving a clearance). Completely clean cases and cases with only minor derogatory information are adjudicated by DISCO. Cases with major derogatory information are referred from DISCO to DOHA for adjudication.
How do you know your case was at DOHA? |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson (Pacific Grove, CA) on February 6, 2010 at 5:26pm
|
|
|
|
Hi,
In December of 2009 I was separated from my company after loosing a contract. Simultaneously, my TS clearance was in the final stages of it's five year periodic review and was at DOHA. Potential employers now are telling me I don't have a TS when they check the system. My ex FSO is saying that I lost jurisdiction after I separated from the company. Can you please suggest how I approach this.
Thanks
RA |
|
|
|
|
Ricky A (VA) on February 3, 2010 at 7:40pm
|
|
|
|
Hi I been given a contingent offer to a position with a gov contracting company that requires a secret clearance. I'm a little concerned because of my finances that I may not be able to obtain a clearance.
Please help!
1. I have currently have $70,378 in student loan debt. Keep in mind I just graduated with my undergraduate degree in 2007 and masters in 2009. I was able to obtain some financial aid but very little so I mostly had to take out loans. Some of my loans I am currently paying while others are still deferred, everything has been paid on-time.
2. I have 11,782 still to owe on a car payment. I have been making every payment on time.
3. I also have $16,140 in credit card debt. My parents weren't able to help me with school and I was able to work a little, but not enough to still cover my textbooks, food, insurance, car payments, health insurance so I had to charge everything. The financial aide office told me they were unable to help with additional finances of room on board and those listed above. This is why the debt is so high. I have been making every payment on time.
4. There was once instance in 2006 that I was 180 days late on a credit card payment. The credit card was a charge off and eventually an agreement was reached with the collection agency and I paid the full amount due by 2007. The amount was under 2,000.
I have been working as an intern since I graduated college and throughout my masters. This doesn't allow me to have benefits so I've been paying out of my pocket for benefits, loans, car payments, insurance and doctor visits. I still have been making my credit card and loan payments but they are close to the maxing out point since my income doesn't allow for much more payment.
I am not going to risk national security, I just would like to be able to pay off my debts, I hate having them but right now I can only make minimum payments or a little over minimum payments.
I am concerned all of this will hurt my chances of obtaining a clearance.
In addition, I don't have any problems with the law, drugs, alcohol, or foreign issues. My only concern is the financial problem.
Does anyone think I will have any problems? |
|
|
|
|
Kristin ((MD)) on January 14, 2010 at 11:09pm
|
|
|
|
I was recently denied suitability by DHS to work on a federal contract job due to failure to meet financial obligations.
If the derogatory information on my credit report is removed can I reapply to this agency for work? And are there any restrictions to me re-applying?
Thanks
Rick |
|
|
|
|
Rick A (DC) on January 7, 2010 at 8:03am
|
|
|
|
Hi: I declared in my application that I'm delinquent more than 90 days on my mortgage as i'm going thru the loan modification process. Do u know what is their process of checking up on this to verify? Would they call the loan company and ask specific or deeper questions other than if in fact i'm going thru the process? |
|
|
|
|
JR (VA) on January 1, 2010 at 10:35pm
|
|
|
|
Can a possible foreclosure hinder me getting a job with the Federal Probation Dept? Due to the recent economic downfall, I need to return to the workforce. Our family income is from commission sales and that has dropped approximately 60% in the last year. What are we to do if I cannot qualify for a good job with the government?
We are currently trying to negotiate a modification of our loan but it has been a long and tedious process. What can I do? I just received my decline letter (form letter stating others were more qualified) for the job - I had worked with many Probation personnel previously and was told that basically, my interview was just a formality - How can we fix our financial problems if our own government will not give us a chance? |
|
|
|
|
Perfect P (san diego, CA) on December 16, 2009 at 5:28pm
|
|
|
|
gm (Oklahoma City, OK),
I am sorry you feel the way you do. The bottom line is that possession of a security clearance is a privilege, not a right. As with any privilege, you must first show you are reliable, dependable and of good character before you are granted one. Once granted, you must remain reliable and dependable or the privilege can be taken away. For a security clearance, that means ALL aspects of your life – financially responsible, avoid abuse of alcohol, avoid use of illegal substances, avoiding involvement with law enforcement as a perpetrator, etc. Credit problems are of particular interest as the case files of espionage are full of people who betrayed trust for financial gain. I am not saying that you are someone who would do this, but adjudicators look at a person’s life in total and try to make an objective decision based on a person’s past behavior. An individual’s past is the best predictor of how they will act in the future. Best of luck to you. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on December 10, 2009 at 11:59am
|
|
|
|
Angel P. (Alexandria, VA),
I am very sorry for your situation. I know from personal experience (36 years military/civilian combined) that administrative judges (AJs) and clearance adjudicators DO look at business downturns/failures as a mitigating factor and it is stated as such in the adjudicative guidelines. There must be other factors/issues that led to your revocation. AJs are known for looking at business failures/downturns as mitigating as long as you made reasonable efforts to inform creditors of the situation and to resolve personal debts to the best of your abilities. The “threshold of $3500” in delinquent debt is not a hard and fast rule. It is only an indicator for investigators and adjudicators to look harder at credit issues. Even the $3500 has been raised in the past 5 years with some adjudication facilities using $7500 and some even higher. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on December 10, 2009 at 11:48am
|
|
|
|
Anonymous,
The type of position or the required duties of your position would affect whether a poor credit rating is a hiring determinant. Obviously, if you are handling cash transactions or in a position to affect contract awards, a supervisor would consider the possibility of you being tempted to steal or to accept a bribe to make certain decisions. In most cases, a poor credit rating will not affect your chances to be hired or remain on the job. For your own benefit and for that of your family, you should immediately begin all responsible actions to start resolving your debt, including contacting the creditors to arrange repayment; disputing debts that are erroneous to remove them from your credit report; consider Consumer Credit Counseling Service to help you manage your situation; etc. That way, if a clearance is needed at a later time, you will be seen as attempting to mitigate your situation. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on December 10, 2009 at 11:38am
|
|
|
|
smj (Texas),
You have several things going on that are in your favor as they help mitigate your financial situation. Specifically, your attempts to contact and arrange satisfaction of your debts are commendable and the cause of some of your indebtedness was beyond your control (divorce). These factors will be looked at favorably by the clearance adjudicators. Although your situation may seem overwhelming, you need to remain proactive in addressing your debts. Another option you may consider is CCCS (Consumer Credit Counseling Services) or other credible financial counseling to ensure you are on the best path. Beware of fly-by-night services or those that charge up-front fees to look at your situation as they can put you further behind. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on December 10, 2009 at 10:45am
|
|
|
|
I lost my clearance due to debt incurred thru a failed business and the government hearing didn't take that into consideration. I am a veteran of more than 30 years with top level clearances, on top level secret positions, and have never had any type of negative reports in my file. But yet, the debt of 30K was too high for the government to trust me with and that might revocation of the clearance. So where was the consideration for all the years of service and sacrifice? Never was there a reason not to trust me because I had a debt incurred from this bad economy and on a process (owning a business) that was good for the economy ever considered by the hearing. It was just too much debt over the established threshold of $3500. In today's economy, that's just peanuts and should be readjusted to real dollars. |
|
|
|
|
Angel P. (Alexandria, VA) on November 25, 2009 at 3:17pm
|
|
|
|
I just have one question I hope that someone will answer for me. I have recently been hired for a gs4 non clearance needed job. I have done 10 years with the military, have an honorable discharge and have no criminal record. The only thing that I have against me is a horrible credit score, I haven't worked in a year and due to this I have defaulted on some credit cards. I need to know if my horrible credit score will get me dismissed from the job. I should also mention that I was told to begin work before my investigation was done. Any info that anyone can give me would be extremely helpful, thanks in advance. |
|
|
|
|
Anonymous on November 21, 2009 at 7:43pm
|
|
|
|
I am also going through the process of getting a security clerance and I am worried I will be denied due to bad credit. I went through a pretty bad divorce and it ruined by credit and left me with charge offs / repo / and a foreclosure. I decided to go back to school to finish my degree then get a job which would help me to pay off the debt. I got the job and now I am afraid I will lose it because of my past. I have made arrangments with these creditors now that I have the money and have been trying to pay them off but there are so many of them I cant pay them all at once so I dont know what else to do. I have supporting documentation from these creditors that I am paying or have paid some of them off but I am not sure if this is good enough. I am ex military and I served my country and now I see all these people saying they have been denied a clearance due to financial probmels and it makes me worry. Thanks! |
|
|
|
|
smj (texas) on November 15, 2009 at 7:03am
|
|
|
|
I do not understand why a security clearance has anything to do with someones credit. I can understand if a person has a great job making very good money and has bad credit, because he is not using good judgment with living within his means. On the other hand, a person making barely minimum wage or a little over, could never have good credit, because he struggles to just make ends meet and usually does not. He may have gotten credit to buy a car or such and then has to rob Peter to pay Paul in order to keep it.
The whole thing is ludicrous, and the government is keeping the poor poor and the haves haves. I know someone who is a janitor at a government building, and has worked there for four years, and now a new contractor has the contract and he has to get a security clearance and has been denied until he submits a letter explaining himself on the denial. WRONG! The government sucks so bad with how they treat the little people. I am so ashamed of my government sometimes. I embrace socialism more and more.
The jobs that do not pay a living wage and the companies who offer them are at fault, not the poor person trying to find scraps to eat on the piddly money he is paid to do honest hard work. If a company cannot pay a true living wage, then why are they in business? The owner or others at the top do not go home at night wondering if their electricity was cut off during the day because they could not pay it until the end of the week, because of an emergency. The owners of these pathetic companies has enough money and then some. Shame on these people who care only for themselves. What happened to being our brothers keeper? Many people have difficulty of making a living through no fault of their own. Life sometimes is a game of chance and luck, and too many people say as long as I got mine, I do not care if you get yours. How sad. I hope when the end of time comes, those in that position will get what is coming to them, and the wealth they accumulated on earth will be all for not. Eternal damnation will not have been worth the justice they will endure in the end. |
|
|
|
|
gm (Oklahoma City, Ok.) on November 10, 2009 at 12:07pm
|
|
|
|
I have an existing TS/SCI and I had a foreclosure in 2008, found out by receiving 1099 in the mail from the bank. Notifed my employer at the time but they never submitted it to DONCAF. New job and they said the new finacial matters must be sent to DONCAf for adjudication prior to being read on. The reason for the foreclosure was the tenant stopped paying rent and wrecked the house, I could not afford it anymore, couldn't to a died in lue or short sale, lost it. I have since negotiated payback terms for the equity loan and the primary mortgage and Equity loan are the only 2 items on my credit report. Do I have anything to worry about? and approx how long does it take to have the item adjudicated? Thanks! |
|
|
|
|
cwg316 (San Diego) on November 2, 2009 at 3:46pm
|
|
|
|
My husband is military, and has a security clearance with his job and absolutely CANNOT lose it! In 06 b4 we were married i went to school and didn't finish, thought financial aid would pay for the classes i took and come to find out they didn't. I went to the school in may 09 to pay the the last school fee of $100 never paid before leaving so i could get my transcripts to go back to school and gave me this # to call. come to find out F.A never covered it and i owe 10k, told them i wanted paperwork and would file BKR, they said i couldn't bc its considered a student loan even thou i never had a loan, nvr got any paperwork, then yesterday they call saying they nvr got the BK paperwork(was told i couldnt file BK on this) & Fri they will decided weather or not to take legal action and file suit against me, unless i pay 20% down right now and $700mo for next 12mos to resolve the debt in a year! 1st of all nobody has 10k to give someone in a year. Can my husband lose his security clearance or garnish his pay/taxes if they file a judgment against me even though this debt was incurred before we got married and in my madian name? any help would be greatly appreciated! |
|
|
|
|
concerned (NC) on October 21, 2009 at 7:44pm
|
|
|
|
I had excellent credit until, I started helping out my sister with her child, Fiancée lost his job and we became pregnant with twins. However, one of the babies died during my pregnancy and had to be surgical removed. Medical bills start piling up and I was using credit cards to pay them. I have been hired for a job and suppost to start soon, and have a secret clearance, that may or maybe expiring. I am looking to file bankruptcy. Will this prevent me from getting a clearance. |
|
|
|
|
MYE (Maryland) on October 1, 2009 at 11:37am
|
|
|
|
I am preparing to do evaluation at a Government Facility here in Missouri for a Government Job. I am very concerned about my Credit I have several Debts that I could not pay and about 7,000 in Student loans and 8500.00 that the IRS overpaid me in tax returns I am on hardship status with the IRS until I can a job will this hurt me in obtaining a Security Clearance Please give me some kind of an answer |
|
|
|
|
KL (Missouri) on September 8, 2009 at 10:23am
|
|
|
|
I lost my federal contract job in 2007 due to a salery realignment event. Though I have applied all over I have not been successful getting a job locally. I made all payments until January of this year - essentially I ran out of money. My car was repossessed in March and just early this month the bank sued me for the amount of the loan. I have about $22,000 in debt. I visited a lawyer and he suggested that I go Chapter 7. When it rains it pours as one of my applications has just been accepted for a GS job at my old series. My question is will I be able to keep my clearance, which expires this October considering that I may have to apply for Chapter 7 or should I just take the job and try to pay off the debt? |
|
|
|
|
Hou (Florida) on August 28, 2009 at 1:17pm
|
|
|
|
I recently filed for Chapter 7 BR and it went through in Feb 2009. The BR was caused by excessive debt incurred during marriage and I was labeled as responsible for the debt during the divorce. With Child Support payment and 50 percent of my retirement pension being paid to my ex-wife, I had to file BR. Currently; I have an active TS and am planning to take a new job requiring DHS suitability. With the above circumstance, does anyone see any problem with obtaining this suitability? |
|
|
|
|
Bill (Silver Spring MD) on August 27, 2009 at 3:50pm
|
|
|
|
I had stellar credit until the downturn and due to helping my mom out with her bills (regular and medical) and my company going bankrupt I had some credit cards get maxxed out and I am currently behind on a few of them. No chargeoffs but I am working with them to fix the problem and get back on track. I have a decent amount of money coming my way (from my 401k) so I can address the bills and get the past due amounts paid so I can be current again. Will I still be able to get a secret clearance? I am an honest person and try to pay all of my debts in an honest way. This economic downturn really has screwed up alot of people, including me. But I really want to get this job (is perfect for me, but I need a secret clearance) |
|
|
|
|
TS (Virginia) on August 17, 2009 at 5:51pm
|
|
|
|
Going through a security clearance right now and am concerned about my credit. Mainly late payments and a couple of accounts closed by the credit granter after payment in full. Will this disqualify me?
If I answered no to all the questions does that mean I am good to go or do they research further than the questions? |
|
|
|
|
corona91719 (Ca) on August 15, 2009 at 2:20am
|
|
|
|
Hi I been given a contigent offer to a position with a gov contracting company that requires a secret clearance. I'm a little concerned because of my fiances that I may not be able to obtain a clearance.
Please help!
1. I have currently have $70,378 in student loan debt. Keep in mind I just graduated with my undergraduate degree in 2007 and masters in 2009. I was able to obtain some finacial aid but very little so I mostly had to take out loans. Some of my loans I am currently paying while others are still deferred, everything has been paid ontime.
2. I have 11,782 still to owe on a car payment. I have been making every payment on time.
3. I also have $16,140 in credit card debt. My parents weren't able to help me with school and I was able to work a little, but not enough to still cover my textbooks, food, insurance, car payments, health insurance so I had to charge everything. The financial aide office told me they were unable to help with additional finances of room on board and those listed above. This is why the debt is so high.
I have been making every payment on time.
4. There was once instance in 2006 that I was 180 days late on a credit card payment. The credit card was a charge off and eventually an aggreement was reached with the collection agency and I paid the full amount due by 2007. The amount was under 2,000.
I have been working as an intern since I graduated college and throughout my masters. This doesn't allow me to have benefits so I've been paying out of my pocket for benefits, loans, car payments, insurance and doctor visits. I still have been making my credit card and loan payments but they are close to the maxing out point since my income doesn't allow for much more payment.
I am not going to risk national security, I just would like to be able to pay off my debts, I hate having them but right now I can only make minimum payments or a little over minimum payments.
I am concerned all of this will hurt my chances of obtaining a clearance.
In addition, I don't have any problems with the law, drugs, alcohol, or foreign issues. My only concern is the financial problem.
Does anyone think I will have any problems? |
|
|
|
|
Kristin on August 14, 2009 at 5:14pm
|
|
|
|
I'm not a bad person. I just got offered a federal position and I accepted. I need to obtain a secret clearance. I have a problem about my debts. I did not pay my debts for a long time. However I am trying to get my debts resolve through credit counseling. Will credit counseling help me with obtaining a secret clearance? |
|
|
|
|
nece on August 4, 2009 at 5:59am
|
|
|
|
just got offered emplyment with contractor who works on usps contract. i have been out of work for 6 months. a tax lein for 5700 was just placed on credit report. will this block the usps clearance. i need the job to pay the debt off. i have informed them of debt. all other credit is great |
|
|
|
|
tj (nc) on July 28, 2009 at 1:32pm
|
|
|
|
I got divorced and took upon the majority of the things we owed. She recieved half of military retirement and portion of my employement. Causing me to go into considerable debt. I had a vehicle repossed, house forelclosed, and several other major financial issues. I file Chapter 13 and recently had it dismissed, because I have been able to get back on my feet. I recently received a govt job offer but need security clearance. What are my chances of receinving one. |
|
|
|
|
Reggie (Warner Robins GA) on July 14, 2009 at 10:28pm
|
|
|
|
11B (Oregon),
There is hope, but you need to act now. The problem is you admit that you have not made payments in several years. The adjudicative guidelines state that "inability or unwillingness to satisfy debts" is a security concern. First, obtain a credit report from each of the 3 major credit bureaus to see exactly what shows on them. Sometimes, these debts are sold to other creditors and you need to know exactly who you owe money to. Contact the creditor and attempt to set up a payment plan and start paying. Some creditors will negotiate a payoff lower than is actually owed. By the time you are interviewed, you should have a record of making payments in accordance with the agreement and that helps mitigate the situation. Good luck. |
|
|
|
|
Bill L. (Annapolis, MD) on July 14, 2009 at 1:03pm
|
|
|
|
Can anyone tell me if a misdemeanor arrest (which did not result in any conviction) within the past 7 years would prevent being granted a clearance, if, lets say, it was not disclosed?
Also, what if you were forced to stop making payments on a house because of a job loss, but all other debt obligations were paid on time for at least 7 years? |
|
|
|
|
John (california) on July 10, 2009 at 12:43am
|
|
|
|
I was recently hired for a contractor job in the middle east. Even though I told the company I had outstanding debt. I will need to acquire "secret" level clearance. They have not ran my clearance yet. However, I am $40,000 in joint debt with my wife who I am separated with. The unpaid joint debt is is several years old with no payments on it for years. I acquired most of it after separating from the Army (completing my contract with an honorable discharge) and overseas deployment and my wife losing her job.
It would appear from your article I have absolutely no way acquiring a secret clearance? or is there hope? |
|
|
|
|
11B (Oregon) on July 8, 2009 at 3:02am
|
|
|
|
Scott:
There are very few security/suitability issues that will absolutely prevent a person from getting a federal security clearance and yours is not one of them. Almost all past financial problems can be successfully mitigated if a person has acted reasonably and responsibly in meeting their financial obligations for the past few years. The whole purpose of the security clearance process is to try to predict future conduct based on past and current conduct. When a person has acted honestly and responsibly for a few years, it is much more indicative of their future conduct than something that happened further back in time. The challenge for most people is effectively conveying to an adjudicator (through their application form and sometime a security interview) what has changed in their life that shows they will not get into the same unfavorable situation in the future. |
|
|
|
|
William Henderson (Pacific Grove, CA) on July 4, 2009 at 4:36pm
|
|
|
|
I have a question on this item with clearances. Over 10 years ago, I accidentally defaulted on paying my student loans and taxes. I was unaware since I was overseas and mail was delivered late. When I came back to the states, I made good faith effort to repay these debts which I did in full. Then I had bad car accident several years back and could not pay medical and credit card bills.
I declared chapter 7 bankruptcy 3.5 years ago. The BK was discharged successfully over 2 years ago. I rebuilt my credit rating with secured credit cards. I have no debt. For past 3 years, I have paid all of my bills on time. I file and pay all taxes for past 3 years and use a good CPA to ensure tax compliance.
Can I still obtain a secret clearance? |
|
|
|
|
scott (california) on June 23, 2009 at 1:45pm
|
|
|
|
I have a lot of debit because i misused my credit cards but I have never been late on the monthly payments and I make payments to creditor every month. So if someone got his security clearance denied can he fix it or that's the end of his carrier. Thank you. |
|
|
|
|
AJ (Texas) on May 1, 2009 at 12:46am
|
|
|
|
my credit was almost perfect in june 2008 august i waslaid off work. and the economy in florida craped out now i have 2 credit cards im in default on. ihad to borrow almost all my 401k ,so i dont loose my house. now i have the opertunity to work in kuwait,or iraq.will these debts keep me from getting a security clearance? i already had to get a tsa security for my hazmat licenses,i passed that .what do i have to do now?? thanks jon |
|
|
|
|
JON G. (FLORIDA) on December 31, 2008 at 6:36pm
|
|
|
|
I am in the middle of getting my security clearance restored so I can work at a Government contractors position. How long should it take for that clearance check to be done, if they can tell I had a TS clearance before? |
|
|
|
|
RT (New Port Richey, Fl) on November 13, 2008 at 1:18pm
|
|
|
|
I know this is unfair to the hard working people...like right now there is very few Americans with good credit...and do to the market and the economy alot of people are losing their homes cause of poor management of the goverment of this crazy bankers and lenders but now what ever we all loose...and yes there is more criminals with good credit out there who just do crazy things to keep their finances in order while the hard working american just struggles and fights to stay up....while the criminals get richer and the white collar people do what ever to take our money...thats why we are the way we are...money solves everything..but hard work dont.. |
|
|
|
|
Rick (florida) on November 12, 2008 at 2:15pm
|
|
|
|
Everyone goes through bad economic times, while I was deployed I was making decent money, I had almost 0 expenses since the Army paid for everything I needed, I enter the civilian world and its half the pay and double the expenses, so now I cant get that good job. They should put people qualified for a job on probation status for 2 years and make you pay atleast 80% of your bad debt, atleast give you a chance. Just because you have a mountain of bills you cant pay does not make you a bad person. I served my country and served in 2 combat zones but it doesnt mean anything because my credit is bad, total nonsense.. |
|
|
|
|
ME (Miami) on September 13, 2008 at 1:19am
|
|
|
|
sad to say, all to often it the big guys that ruin it for the ones trying to keep credit. with the current and past situation in the world, 911 as well as cut backs, loss of work has done the economy bad and with the lose of jobs and paychecks at a standstill trying to live is bad enough. what are the stats on number with good credit or decent credit? more criminals with good credit are in the work |
|
|
|
|
Anonymous on July 28, 2008 at 3:25pm
|
|
|
|
I have medical debit for lack of insurance. My current job does not pay enough for me to get out of debit. I need a better salaried job, how can I get one if my credit score is bad? |
|
|
|
|
DeBorah K Beckett (Oklahoma) on June 11, 2008 at 9:07am
|
|
|
|
With that being true its going to really put the people who have bad credit due to thier parents using their SSN in bad spot. I have a Secert SC and been working on my credit for the longest and its still not getting better. So if I lose my job that requires my SC it would take forever to pay back the debt I have then if I had the job |
|
|
|
|
JD (Charleston South Carolina) on January 29, 2008 at 1:18pm
|
|
