Summary
A 39-year-old secretary was denied a security clearance under Guideline F (Financial Considerations) due to substantial delinquent debts totaling approximately $19,311. The Statement of Reasons detailed multiple unpaid debts, including several in collection status, and two state tax liens from 2002 and 2003 that remained unsatisfied as of June 3, 2009. Additionally, the applicant owed the IRS approximately $10,400 in unpaid federal taxes, interest, and penalties for tax years 2002, 2004, and 2006.
Specific allegations included debts of $345, $1,480, $242, $29, $1,036, $1,937, and $4,174 to various creditors, all of which were either in collection or unpaid as of June 3, 2009. An outstanding balance of $691 remained on an automobile purchase debt of $5,707.
Despite the applicant's long-term employment and attempts to manage her debts, the judge found that her financial issues raised doubts about her reliability and trustworthiness. The denial was based on her failure to demonstrate a track record of financial responsibility, the persistence of substantial unpaid and unresolved delinquent debts, and the lack of a clear plan to manage future obligations.
Why the applicant was denied
- Applicant failed to demonstrate a track record of financial responsibility.
- Substantial delinquent debts remained unpaid and unresolved, raising concerns about her judgment and reliability.
- Financial difficulties persisted over several years without adequate resolution or a clear plan to manage future obligations.
Conditions referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 20(b)rejectedConditions Beyond the Person's ControlWhile divorce contributed to financial difficulties, debts existed prior to the divorce.
- AG ¶ 20(c)appliedReceiving Counseling for the ProblemApplicant began the process of financial counseling.
- AG ¶ 20(d)rejectedGood Faith Effort to Repay CreditorsApplicant's intentions to repay were not substantiated by a track record of payments.
Key rule quoted
“Failure or inability 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 information.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedAug 11, 2009
- Answer filedSep 30, 2009
- Hearing heldNov 23, 2009
- Decision dateJan 28, 2010
Cite for
- Financial Responsibility Under Guideline F
- Impact of Unresolved Debts on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Consideration of Mitigating Conditions in Financial Cases