Summary
A 33-year-old records management specialist was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F, Financial Considerations. The applicant faced allegations related to approximately $23,000 in delinquent debts, including a $9,530 charged-off truck loan she co-signed for her ex-husband and a $250 account that has since been paid. Additionally, a Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition was discharged in July 2004, which was attributed to her ex-husband's unemployment during their marriage.
Disqualifying conditions were raised under AG ¶ 19(a) and AG ¶ 19(c). However, the decision applied mitigating conditions AG ¶ 20(a), AG ¶ 20(b), AG ¶ 20(c), and AG ¶ 20(d).
The clearance was granted because the applicant provided proof of payment for numerous delinquent accounts, demonstrating responsible financial behavior. Her financial difficulties were largely attributed to circumstances beyond her control, specifically her ex-husband's unemployment and lack of child support. Furthermore, the applicant's current financial situation is stable, and she has a plan in place to resolve her remaining debts.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant provided proof of payment for many delinquent accounts, demonstrating responsible financial behavior.
- The financial difficulties were largely attributed to circumstances beyond the applicant's control, including her ex-husband's unemployment and lack of child support.
- The applicant's current financial situation is stable, and she has a plan to resolve remaining debts.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 20(a)appliedThe Behavior Happened so Long Ago, Was so Infrequent, or Occurred Under Such Circumstances That It Is Unlikely to Recur and Does Not Cast Doubt on the Individual’s Current Reliability, Trustworthiness, or Good Judgment
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedThe Conditions That Resulted in the Behavior Were Largely Beyond the Person’s Control and the Individual Acted Responsibly Under the Circumstances
- AG ¶ 20(d)appliedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
- AG ¶ 20(c)appliedThe Person Has Received or Is Receiving Counseling for the Problem And/or There Are Clear Indications That the Problem Is Being Resolved, or Is Under Control
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJan 3, 2015
- Answer filed—timely answered the SOR
- Hearing heldApr 28, 2015scheduled hearing
- Decision dateMay 19, 2015
Cite For
- Mitigating Circumstances Under Guideline F Due to Financial Difficulties Stemming From Divorce and Ex-spouse's Unemployment
- Evidence of Responsible Financial Behavior Leading to Resolution of Debts
- Whole-person Concept Applied in Evaluating Financial Considerations