Summary
A 33-year-old network security analyst was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The applicant faced allegations related to numerous outstanding debts, primarily stemming from medical issues and periods of unemployment. These included multiple medical bills ranging from $159 to $2,058, all of which were paid. Other paid debts included utility, telecommunication, military overpayment, college bookstore, and insurance balances, along with two collection accounts.
Two larger medical/hospital debts, totaling $10,416 and $11,084, were in settlement negotiations. An apartment lease balance of $5,672 remained unpaid. Additionally, two telecommunication and collection accounts were successfully disputed. The applicant also addressed federal and state tax issues by submitting late filings and entering into repayment plans, and a revised 2006 tax balance of $1,589 was noted.
The clearance was granted because the applicant demonstrated a strong commitment to resolving his financial issues. He provided evidence of timely payments, ongoing negotiations with creditors, and adherence to a budget. The adjudicator recognized that the majority of the debts were due to medical problems and unemployment, factors largely beyond his control, and that he had taken positive steps to mitigate the concerns.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a commitment to resolving his debts and maintaining a budget.
- He provided evidence of timely payments and ongoing negotiations with creditors.
- The majority of his debts were related to medical issues and periods of unemployment, which were beyond his control.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 19(g)raisedFailure to File Annual Federal, State, or Local Income Tax Returns as Required
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedConditions That Resulted in the Financial Problem Were Largely Beyond the Person’s Control
- AG ¶ 20(d)appliedIndividual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors
- AG ¶ 20(c)appliedThe Person Has Received or Is Receiving Counseling for the Problem
Key Rule Quoted
“The process does not demand that an Applicant satisfy all debts at issue. It only requires that an Applicant develop a reasonable plan for addressing his debts and related issues, and provide evidence that the plan has been successfully implemented.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedAug 22, 2013
- Answer filedSep 25, 2013
- Hearing heldJan 14, 2014rescheduled due to inclement weather
- Decision dateMar 6, 2014
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Issues Under Guideline F Due to Medical Circumstances
- Good-faith Efforts to Resolve Debts
- Whole-person Concept in Security Clearance Evaluations