Summary
A 34-year-old applicant for an ADP I/II/III position was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons (SOR) alleged six debts, with two identified as duplications. Disqualifying conditions related to financial irresponsibility and a history of not meeting financial obligations were initially raised.
However, the applicant successfully mitigated these concerns. She settled and paid her largest debt, along with two other debts, by January 2, 2007, and November 28, 2006, respectively. For the remaining active debt, she demonstrated ongoing financial responsibility by making consistent monthly payments of $50.
The decision to grant the clearance was based on several mitigating factors. The applicant no longer had any legally enforceable, delinquent debts at the time of the decision. Furthermore, her past financial difficulties were largely attributed to extenuating circumstances, specifically caring for ill parents and experiencing marital separations. She demonstrated a pattern of financial responsibility over the four years preceding the decision.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- Applicant settled and paid her largest debt and two other debts in full.
- She has no legally enforceable, delinquent debts at the time of the decision.
- Her financial difficulties were largely due to caring for ill parents and marital separations.
Conditions Referenced
- FC DC 1raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- FC DC 3raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- FC MC 1rejectedThe Behavior Was Not Recent
- FC MC 2rejectedIt Was an Isolated Incident
- FC MC 3appliedConditions That Resulted in the Behavior Were Largely Beyond the Person's Control
- FC MC 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
- FC MC 6rejectedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
Key Rule Quoted
“The standard that must be met for . . . assignment to sensitive duties is that, based on all available information, the person's loyalty, reliability, and trustworthiness are such that . . . assigning the person to sensitive duties is clearly consistent with the interests of national security.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedAug 29, 2006
- Answer filedOct 19, 2006Notarized response received by DOHA
- Hearing heldDec 1, 2006Record held open for additional evidence
- Decision dateJan 31, 2007
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Concerns Under Guideline F
- Impact of Personal Circumstances on Financial Obligations
- Evidence of Financial Counseling as a Mitigating Factor