Summary
A 28-year-old former U.S. Marine Corps member was denied a security clearance under Guideline F, Financial Considerations, due to significant and persistent financial issues. The applicant had accumulated approximately $27,000 in delinquent debts, with financial difficulties dating back to 2003. Specific allegations included an unpaid medical debt of $123 and a charged-off account of $2,522, both remaining unresolved.
While the applicant did settle one collection account for $1,675 by paying $50 in November 2009, this effort was insufficient to mitigate the broader pattern of financial mismanagement. Disqualifying conditions related to a history of not meeting financial obligations and an inability to satisfy debts were raised.
Despite the application of several mitigating conditions, the denial was based on the applicant's continued accumulation of delinquent debts, a lack of responsible financial management, and the absence of evidence for financial counseling or a concrete plan to address the outstanding obligations. The applicant's overall financial history raised concerns about reliability and trustworthiness.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a history of accumulating delinquent debts and has not demonstrated responsible financial management.
- The applicant's financial difficulties have persisted since 2003, indicating a lack of resolution and ongoing issues.
- The applicant did not provide evidence of financial counseling or a meaningful plan to address his 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)rejectedBehavior Happened so Long Ago, Was Infrequent, or Unlikely to RecurThe applicant's financial difficulties are ongoing and not infrequent.
- AG ¶ 20(b)rejectedConditions Largely Beyond the Person's ControlThe applicant's financial problems arose prior to his periods of unemployment.
- AG ¶ 20(c)rejectedReceived or Receiving Counseling for the ProblemThe applicant has not received financial counseling.
- AG ¶ 20(d)rejectedGood-faith Effort to Repay Overdue CreditorsThe applicant has not actively worked on resolving his financial issues.
Key Rule Quoted
“Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for access to classified information will be resolved in favor of national security.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJul 17, 2009
- Answer filedAug 27, 2009
- Hearing heldFeb 18, 2010
- Decision dateMar 11, 2010
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Unresolved Financial Issues Under Guideline F
- Importance of Demonstrating Responsible Financial Management for Security Clearance Eligibility
- Impact of Ongoing Financial Difficulties on Trustworthiness and Reliability Assessments.