Summary
A 54-year-old mechanic and inspector for a Department of Defense contractor was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons cited six allegations of unpaid debts, including store and bank credit cards, two accounts with collection companies, and a second mortgage. These issues raised disqualifying conditions F.1.a and F.1.c.
However, the judge determined that the applicant's financial difficulties were largely beyond his control, stemming primarily from medical expenses related to a lung cancer diagnosis. The applicant demonstrated mitigating conditions F.2.a, F.2.b, and F.2.c by attempting to negotiate payment plans with creditors, despite most being uncooperative.
Crucially, the applicant had not incurred new delinquent debts and maintained a good record of paying current expenses. Given these efforts and the extenuating circumstances, the judge concluded that the applicant's financial issues did not pose an unacceptable security risk, and the security clearance was granted.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant's financial difficulties were primarily due to a lung cancer diagnosis and associated medical expenses.
- He demonstrated responsible behavior by attempting to negotiate payment plans with creditors, although most were uncooperative.
- The applicant has not acquired new delinquent debts and has a good track record of paying current expenses.
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
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 18, 2015
- Answer filedMar 23, 2015Requested decision on the written record.
- Hearing held—Pro se representation.
- Decision dateFeb 3, 2016
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Issues Due to Medical Circumstances Under Guideline F
- Consideration of the Whole-person Concept in Security Clearance Decisions
- The Importance of Demonstrating Responsible Financial Behavior Over Time