Summary
A 40-year-old service desk analyst was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The applicant admitted to owing several debts, including a past-due mortgage of $13,032 and a $765 debt for a satellite dish account from 2011, which she was in the process of arranging payment for. Two other debts were paid in full.
Disqualifying conditions were raised due to the outstanding debts. However, mitigating conditions were applied, recognizing the applicant's efforts to resolve her financial issues. She maintained steady employment, paid off some debts, and actively communicated with her mortgage company to address the past-due amount.
The decision to grant clearance was further supported by the finding that her financial difficulties were largely due to circumstances beyond her control, specifically job loss and her significant other's lack of financial contribution. The applicant demonstrated responsible behavior and a commitment to resolving her financial obligations.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant maintained steady employment and demonstrated financial responsibility by paying off some debts.
- She provided evidence of her efforts to resolve her mortgage issues and communicated with the mortgage company.
- The applicant's financial difficulties were largely due to circumstances beyond her control, including the loss of her job and her significant other's lack of contribution.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 20(a)appliedThe Behavior Happened so Long Ago, Was so Infrequent, or Occurred Under Such Circumstances That It Is Unlikely to Recur and Does Not Cast Doubt on the Individual’s Current Reliability, Trustworthiness, or Good Judgment
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedThe Conditions That Resulted in the Behavior Were Largely Beyond the Person’s Control and the Individual Acted Responsibly Under the Circumstances
- AG ¶ 20(d)appliedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
- AG ¶ 20(c)rejectedThe 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
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 17, 2014
- Answer filed—Timely response to SOR.
- Hearing heldFeb 5, 2015Hearing conducted.
- Decision dateFeb 23, 2015
Cite For
- Mitigating Conditions Under Guideline F for Financial Considerations
- Impact of Circumstances Beyond Control on Financial Obligations
- Evidence of Good-faith Efforts to Resolve Debts