Summary
A 49-year-old retired military member was denied a security clearance under Guideline F (Financial Considerations) due to a long history of financial issues. The Statement of Reasons detailed several allegations, including the failure to file federal and state income tax returns for tax years 2010 through 2014. Additionally, the applicant was indebted for $23,812 in unpaid child support, had two unresolved medical debts of $150 and $94, and an unresolved $4,600 judgment owed to a former landlord from 2012. The applicant also filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in April 1997, which was converted to Chapter 7 and discharged in February 2001.
The denial was based on the applicant's consistent financial problems, which dated back to 1997. The judge noted the failure to file tax returns for multiple years and the presence of several unresolved delinquent debts. The applicant did not present a viable plan to address these outstanding obligations.
Ultimately, the applicant admitted to procrastination and avoidance regarding his financial responsibilities. The judge concluded that this pattern of financial irresponsibility raised significant concerns about his reliability and trustworthiness, which were not mitigated by any evidence of responsible financial management or counseling.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a history of financial problems dating back to 1997, including failure to file tax returns for multiple years.
- He has unresolved delinquent debts and did not provide a workable plan to address them.
- The applicant admitted to procrastination and avoidance regarding his financial obligations.
Conditions Referenced
- F.1.araisedFailure to File Annual Federal Income Tax Returns as Required
- F.1.braisedFailure to File State Income Tax Returns as Required
- F.1.craisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- F.1.draisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
Key Rule Quoted
“Failure or inability to live within one’s means, satisfy debts, and meet financial obligations may indicate poor self-control, lack of judgment, or unwillingness to abide by rules and regulations, all of which can raise questions about an individual’s reliability, trustworthiness and ability to protect classified information.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedNov 25, 2015
- Answer filedJan 5, 2016
- Hearing heldApr 7, 2016
- Decision dateJun 20, 2016
Cite For
- Failure to File Tax Returns as a Disqualifying Condition Under Guideline F
- Long History of Financial Irresponsibility Impacting Security Clearance Eligibility
- Insufficient Evidence of Financial Management or Counseling as a Basis for Mitigation