Summary
A 34-year-old single mother and U.S. Army veteran was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons alleged nine delinquent debts totaling $37,682, including six federal student loans amounting to $28,600. Other debts included a disputed dental bill of $571, a $142 daycare debt, and an $8,362 debt from a 2007 automobile repossession.
The applicant successfully mitigated these concerns by demonstrating responsible financial management. She resolved previous debts through Chapter 13 bankruptcy and made significant payments on current obligations. Specifically, she paid the $142 daycare debt, makes monthly payments of $175 on the automobile repossession debt, and began making monthly payments of about $600 through garnishment on each of her six federal student loans.
The judge noted her stable employment and income, which allowed her to meet financial responsibilities, and her reliable performance evaluations. Based on her progress in addressing financial issues and her demonstrated commitment to resolving debts, the security clearance was granted.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- Applicant resolved previous debts through Chapter 13 bankruptcy and has made significant payments on current obligations.
- She demonstrated responsible financial management and has a stable income that allows her to meet her financial responsibilities.
- The applicant's performance evaluations indicate she is a reliable employee, further supporting her eligibility for a security clearance.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedHistory of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 20(b)rejectedConditions Beyond the Person's ControlThe judge found insufficient evidence to support this condition for debts incurred after November 2006.
- AG ¶ 20(c)appliedEvidence of Financial Counseling or ControlThe applicant provided evidence of payments and a budget indicating her financial obligations are under control.
- AG ¶ 20(e)appliedDispute of Legitimacy of Past-due DebtThe applicant consistently disputed a dental debt and provided evidence of her intent to resolve it.
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedSep 15, 2009
- Answer filedOct 17, 2009
- Hearing heldFeb 25, 2010
- Decision dateApr 13, 2010
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Concerns Under Guideline F
- Consideration of the Whole-person Concept in Security Clearance Decisions
- Impact of Responsible Financial Management on Security Clearance Eligibility