Summary
A 38-year-old defense contractor employee was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). Her financial difficulties, including approximately $6,400 in past due debts, were linked to her bi-polar disorder and alcohol dependence.
Specific allegations included admitted indebtedness totaling approximately $4,600, a delinquent Sears account incorrectly attributed to her, a medical debt covered by insurance, and a fraudulent account opened using her social security number. Other debts involved a medical bill sent to an old address and paid in January 2003, and an emergency medical transport for which she lacked insurance. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing in 1993 was also cited, attributed to financial irresponsibility, a non-working husband, and alcohol dependence.
The clearance was granted because the applicant actively sought treatment for her bi-polar disorder and alcohol dependence. She demonstrated a commitment to financial responsibility by resolving her debts shortly before the hearing and established a strong support network of medical professionals, family, and AA contacts to maintain sobriety and financial discipline.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant's financial difficulties were connected to her bi-polar disorder and alcohol dependence, which she has actively sought treatment for.
- She demonstrated a commitment to financial responsibility by resolving her debts shortly before the hearing.
- The applicant established a support network of medical professionals, family, and AA contacts to maintain her sobriety and financial discipline.
Conditions referenced
- E2.A6.1.2.1raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- E2.A6.1.2.3raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- E2.A6.1.2.5raisedFinancial Problems That Are Linked to Gambling, Drug Abuse, Alcoholism, or Other Issues of Security Concern
- E2.A6.1.3.3appliedThe Conditions That Resulted in the Behavior Were Largely Beyond the Person's Control
- E2.A6.1.3.4appliedThe Person Has Received or Is Receiving Counseling for the Problem and There Are Clear Indications That the Problem Is Being Resolved or Is Under Control
- E2.A6.1.3.6appliedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
Key rule quoted
“"the clearly consistent standard indicates that security-clearance determinations should err, if they must, on the side of denials."”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedJan 16, 2003
- Answer filedFeb 4, 2003
- Hearing heldApr 29, 2003
- Decision dateAug 25, 2003
Cite for
- Mitigation of Financial Difficulties Linked to Mental Health Issues
- Importance of Support Networks in Recovery
- Impact of Treatment on Financial Responsibility and Security Clearance Eligibility