Summary
A 32-year-old executive assistant for a defense contractor was granted eligibility for a public trust position despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons cited 13 delinquent debts totaling over $22,000, which began around 2016. These debts included obligations from a repossessed car purchased before a period of unemployment, and money owed to a state college after the applicant stopped attending classes due to personal turmoil, despite receiving grants. The applicant also disclosed receiving child support and had purchased another car, on which payments were current.
To mitigate these concerns, the applicant filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in January 2019, which included all listed debts and was discharged prior to the decision. The applicant also received financial counseling and demonstrated responsible budgeting.
Ultimately, the applicant’s eligibility was granted. This favorable outcome was supported by the bankruptcy discharge, evidence of financial counseling and responsible budgeting, and character references attesting to her trustworthiness.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which was discharged prior to the decision.
- The applicant received financial counseling and demonstrated responsible budgeting.
- The applicant provided character references that supported her trustworthiness.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 20(a)appliedBehavior Occurred so Long Ago, Was Infrequent, or Unlikely to Recur
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedConditions Largely Beyond the Person's Control
- AG ¶ 20(d)appliedGood-faith Effort to Repay or Resolve Debts
Key Rule Quoted
“Trustworthiness decisions resolve whether it is clearly consistent with the national interest to grant or continue an applicant’s public trust position.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedOct 4, 2018
- Answer filed—Applicant requested a hearing.
- Hearing heldApr 11, 2019
- Decision dateMay 30, 2019
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Issues Through Bankruptcy Under Guideline F
- Consideration of Personal Circumstances Affecting Financial Stability
- Importance of Character References in Trustworthiness Determinations