Summary
A 37-year-old married woman with a daughter was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons alleged she falsified information on two SF-85Ps and an e-QIP by failing to disclose a timeshare repossession and debts over 90 and 180 days delinquent. Additionally, a $134 debt was cited, though it had been paid in November 2009.
The applicant demonstrated significant progress in addressing her financial issues. She paid off several delinquent debts and successfully disputed others. Her commitment to financial responsibility was evident through her proactive steps, including seeking counseling and education to improve her financial situation.
The judge found her explanations for the previous omissions credible, concluding there was no intent to falsify information. Given her substantial efforts to resolve her debts and improve her financial conduct, the security clearance was granted.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant has made significant progress in resolving her delinquent debts, paying off several and disputing others successfully.
- She demonstrated a strong commitment to financial responsibility and has taken steps to improve her financial situation through counseling and education.
- The judge found her explanations for previous omissions credible, indicating no intent to falsify information.
Conditions Referenced
- F.1.araisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- F.1.craisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- F.2.aappliedThe Behavior Happened so Long Ago, Was so Infrequent, or Occurred Under Such Circumstances That It Is Unlikely to Recur
- F.2.bappliedThe Conditions That Resulted in the Financial Problem Were Largely Beyond the Person's Control
- F.2.cappliedThe 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
- F.2.dappliedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
- F.2.eappliedThe Individual Has a Reasonable Basis to Dispute the Legitimacy of the Past-due Debt
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedSep 18, 2009
- Answer filedNov 16, 2009
- Hearing heldFeb 24, 2010
- Decision dateApr 27, 2010
Cite For
- Mitigating Conditions for Financial Considerations Under Guideline F
- Credibility of Applicant's Explanations Regarding Omissions in Security Clearance Applications
- Whole-person Concept in Evaluating Security Clearance Eligibility