Summary
A 32-year-old help desk administrator for a DOD contractor was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The applicant faced allegations related to child support arrears and multiple education loan debts. Disqualifying conditions F.19(a) and F.19(c) were initially raised due to these financial issues.
The applicant demonstrated significant mitigating efforts. He became current on child support payments and established payment plans for several education loans, agreeing to monthly payments of $190, $25, and $50 for different debts. While he admitted to an $1,110 education loan, he disputed another debt, which was subsequently adjusted to $5,214 after contacting the creditor. He also indicated that he had paid off three other debts and did not recognize one specific allegation.
The decision to grant clearance was based on the applicant's good-faith efforts to resolve his financial obligations, including becoming current on child support and establishing payment plans for other debts. Mitigating conditions F.20(b), F.20(c), and F.20(d) were applied, supported by letters of recommendation from superiors attesting to his reliability.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant resolved significant child support arrears and became current on payments.
- He established payment plans for remaining debts and demonstrated a good-faith effort to repay creditors.
- Letters of recommendation from superiors supported the applicant's reliability and work performance.
Conditions Referenced
- F.19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- F.19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- F.20(b)appliedConditions That Resulted in the Financial Problem Were Largely Beyond the Person's Control
- F.20(c)appliedThe 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.20(d)appliedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 6, 2014Details security concerns under Guideline F.
- Answer filedMar 1, 2014Applicant requested a decision on the written record.
- Hearing held—Decision made based on written record.
- Decision dateJul 17, 2014
Cite For
- Good-faith Efforts to Resolve Financial Issues Under Guideline F
- Mitigation of Financial Concerns Due to Employment-related Circumstances
- Importance of Whole-person Concept in Security Clearance Decisions