Summary
A 51-year-old program manager for a defense contractor was granted a security clearance despite significant financial concerns under Guideline F. The Statement of Reasons detailed multiple debts, including a $4,074 civil penalty from the IRS for tax year 2000, and a $15,733 debt to the IRS acquired by his wife in 2009 through an inheritance.
Further allegations included unpaid federal payroll taxes for his two companies from tax years 1995, 1999, and 2000, as well as a judgment for a $2,981 delinquent credit card debt. He also faced a $22,000 judgment from 2001 for legal services to one of his failed companies, and an $8,600 state tax debt.
The judge found that the applicant had established a record of financial responsibility since 2008, making consistent payments and resolving several significant obligations. His demonstrated understanding of his legal responsibilities and the requirements for security clearance mitigated the financial concerns, leading to the decision to grant the clearance.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant established a record of financial responsibility since 2008.
- He has been making consistent payments on his debts and has resolved several significant financial obligations.
- The applicant demonstrated understanding of his legal responsibilities and the requirements for security clearance.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 19(d)raisedDeceptive or Illegal Financial Practices
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedConditions Largely Beyond the Person's Control
- AG ¶ 20(c)appliedReceiving Counseling or Evidence of Problem Resolution
- AG ¶ 20(d)appliedGood-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors
- AG ¶ 20(e)appliedReasonable Basis to Dispute Legitimacy of Debt
Key Rule Quoted
“Eligibility for a security clearance is predicated upon the applicant meeting the criteria contained in the adjudicative guidelines.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedAug 2, 2011
- Answer filedSep 8, 2011
- Hearing heldNov 15, 2011via in-person hearing
- Decision dateJan 19, 2012
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Issues Under Guideline F
- Good-faith Efforts to Resolve Debts
- Impact of Personal Circumstances on Financial Responsibility