Summary
A 45-year-old pipe fitter with a high school diploma was denied a security clearance under Guideline F, Financial Considerations, due to approximately $22,000 in unresolved financial issues. The Statement of Reasons detailed several specific debts, including a May 2015 judgment for about $2,094, a delinquent cable bill of approximately $403, and other collection accounts for $247, $987, and $1,464. Additionally, a delinquent mortgage account totaling about $10,956 was placed for collection.
The applicant acknowledged these debts and attributed his financial difficulties to job loss and medical issues. However, he failed to provide sufficient documentation to support repayment plans or demonstrate effective debt management.
The denial was based on the applicant's admission of multiple delinquent debts, the lack of documentation for resolution, and the persistence of these financial problems for over ten years, which raised concerns about his reliability and judgment. While one mitigating condition was applied, it was insufficient to overcome the disqualifying conditions.
Why the applicant was denied
- The applicant admitted to multiple delinquent debts totaling approximately $22,000.
- The applicant failed to provide sufficient documentation to substantiate repayment plans or debt resolution.
- The applicant's financial problems have persisted for over ten years, indicating a lack of effective action to resolve them.
Conditions referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(b)raisedUnwillingness to Satisfy Debts Regardless of the Ability to Do So
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 20(b)rejectedConditions Beyond the Person's ControlThe applicant did not provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate that his financial issues were largely beyond his control or that he acted responsibly.
Key rule quoted
“Failure to live within one's means, satisfy debts, and meet financial obligations may indicate poor self-control, lack of judgment, or unwillingness to abide by rules and regulations, all of which can raise questions about an individual's reliability, trustworthiness, and ability to protect classified or sensitive information.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedMay 12, 2016
- Answer filedJun 6, 2016Applicant requested a decision on the written record.
- Hearing held—No hearing was held; decision made on the written record.
- Decision dateJun 19, 2017
Cite for
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Unresolved Financial Obligations
- Insufficient Evidence of Debt Management Under Guideline F
- Impact of Financial Distress on Reliability and Trustworthiness