Main Reasons Security Clearances Get Denied or Revoked

Security clearances are essential for many federal jobs and contractors working with sensitive government information. However, obtaining and maintaining a security clearance is not guaranteed. Understanding the main reasons why clearances get denied or revoked can help applicants and current clearance holders navigate the process more successfully.

Why might a security clearance denial or revocation occur?

Security clearances may be denied or revoked due to concerns about an individual’s trustworthiness, reliability, and ability to safeguard classified information. The government evaluates various aspects of a person’s life to determine if they pose a security risk.

Financial Considerations

Financial issues are one of the most common reasons for security clearance denials or revocations. The government is concerned that individuals with significant financial problems may be vulnerable to bribery or espionage. Some key financial considerations include:

• Excessive debt and financial difficulties can raise red flags. This doesn’t mean having any debt is disqualifying, but rather a pattern of inability to meet financial obligations or living beyond one’s means.
• Unexplained affluence is another concern. If an individual’s lifestyle or assets seem inconsistent with their reported income, it may trigger suspicion about potential illegal sources of funds.
• Gambling addiction and related debts are also problematic. Compulsive gambling can lead to financial instability and potentially compromise an individual’s judgment or make them susceptible to coercion.

These financial factors are carefully evaluated during the clearance process. Applicants should be prepared to provide detailed explanations and documentation for any financial issues that may arise.

Foreign Influence and Preference

In an increasingly globalized world, foreign connections are common. However, certain foreign ties can pose security risks. The government evaluates:

• Close ties to foreign nationals, especially those from countries with interests that conflict with U.S. national security. This could include family members, close friends, or business associates.
• Dual citizenship concerns arise when an individual holds citizenship in another country in addition to the United States. While dual citizenship itself is not automatically disqualifying, it can raise questions about allegiance.
• Foreign financial interests, such as property ownership, investments, or business dealings in other countries, may be scrutinized to ensure they don’t create conflicts of interest or vulnerabilities.

Applicants with foreign connections should be prepared to provide detailed information about these relationships and demonstrate their primary allegiance to the United States.

Personal Conduct

An individual’s behavior and character play a significant role in security clearance determinations. Some key areas of concern include:

• Criminal behavior and arrests, even if they didn’t result in convictions, can be disqualifying. The nature, seriousness, and recency of the offense are all considered.
• Dishonesty and lack of candor during the clearance process or in past dealings with employers or authorities can be severely damaging. The government places a high premium on truthfulness and integrity.
• A pattern of rule violations, whether in the workplace, academic settings, or personal life, may indicate a disregard for regulations and procedures crucial to safeguarding classified information.

Applicants should be prepared to disclose and explain any past misconduct, emphasizing lessons learned and positive changes in behavior.

Drug and Alcohol Misuse

Substance abuse issues are taken very seriously in security clearance evaluations. The main concerns in this area include:

• Current illegal drug use is generally disqualifying. The federal government maintains a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drug use, regardless of state laws.
• A history of drug abuse, even if not current, can be problematic. The recency of use, type of drugs involved, and evidence of rehabilitation are all considered.
• Alcohol-related incidents and addiction are also scrutinized. DUIs, public intoxication, or a pattern of alcohol abuse can raise concerns about an individual’s judgment and reliability.

Applicants with a history of substance abuse should be prepared to demonstrate a commitment to sobriety and provide evidence of successful rehabilitation.

Psychological Conditions

Mental health is an important factor in security clearance determinations, although having a mental health condition does not automatically disqualify an individual. The main concerns are:

• Mental health issues that may affect judgment, reliability, or ability to safeguard classified information are evaluated. The focus is on how well-managed and stable the condition is.
• Personality disorders that manifest in behaviors incompatible with handling sensitive information or working in secure environments may be disqualifying.
• Failure to follow prescribed treatment for a mental health condition can be problematic, as it may indicate a lack of judgment or self-control.

It’s important to note that seeking mental health treatment is generally viewed positively, as it demonstrates responsibility and self-awareness.

The Adjudicative Process

Security clearance decisions are made through a careful adjudicative process that considers the “whole person” concept. This means that no single factor is usually decisive, and mitigating circumstances are taken into account.

Adjudicators evaluate the information gathered during background investigations against the 13 adjudicative guidelines outlined in Security Executive Agent Directive 4. These guidelines cover areas such as allegiance to the United States, foreign influence, financial considerations, personal conduct, and more.

Mitigating factors can include the passage of time since a concerning incident, evidence of rehabilitation or changed circumstances, and the nature and extent of positive behaviors that counterbalance negative information.

Appeals and Reapplication

If a security clearance is denied or revoked, individuals generally have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process typically involves submitting a written response to the Statement of Reasons (SOR) provided by the government, explaining the reasons for the adverse decision.

Understanding the specific reasons for denial or revocation is crucial for a successful appeal or future reapplication. Addressing these concerns head-on, providing additional context or evidence, and demonstrating positive changes can improve the chances of a favorable outcome.

Timeframes for reapplication after a denial or revocation vary depending on the reasons and circumstances. In some cases, individuals may need to wait a year or more before reapplying, while in others, immediate reapplication may be possible if new, relevant information becomes available.

Maintaining Clearance

Maintaining a security clearance requires ongoing vigilance and adherence to security protocols. Clearance holders should promptly report any changes in their circumstances that might affect their clearance status and continue to demonstrate reliability and trustworthiness throughout their careers.

• Ongoing self-reporting: Clearance holders are required to report any significant changes in their personal or professional lives that could impact their clearance status. This includes changes in marital status, financial situation, foreign travel, or contacts with foreign nationals.
• Periodic reinvestigations: Depending on the level of clearance, individuals may be subject to periodic reinvestigations to ensure they continue to meet the standards for clearance.
• Continuous evaluation: Many agencies now employ continuous evaluation programs that monitor clearance holders for any new information that might affect their eligibility.
• Adherence to security protocols: Consistently following security procedures and safeguarding classified information is crucial for maintaining clearance.
• Avoiding conflicts of interest: Clearance holders should be cautious about engaging in activities or relationships that could create conflicts of interest or raise security concerns.

By understanding these requirements, clearance holders can take proactive steps to maintain their eligibility and address any potential issues promptly.

Impact on Career and Personal Life

Having a security clearance can significantly impact an individual’s career prospects and personal life. Some considerations include:

• Career opportunities: Many high-paying jobs in government and private sector defense industries require security clearances. Maintaining a clearance can open up numerous career opportunities.
• Travel restrictions: Clearance holders may face restrictions on personal travel, especially to certain countries deemed high-risk.
• Social media and online presence: Individuals with clearances need to be cautious about their online activities and social media presence, as these can be scrutinized during investigations.
• Personal relationships: Close relationships with foreign nationals or individuals involved in criminal activities can potentially jeopardize a clearance.

Understanding these impacts can help individuals make informed decisions about pursuing and maintaining a security clearance.

By understanding these main reasons for security clearance denials and revocations, individuals can better prepare for the clearance process and take proactive steps to address potential concerns. The government’s thorough evaluation process serves the critical purpose of ensuring the protection of sensitive national security information. With proper preparation, honesty, and ongoing diligence, individuals can successfully obtain and maintain the clearances necessary for their careers in national security and related fields. If you encounter issues with your security clearance or need assistance navigating the process, consulting with a federal employment lawyer or federal employment attorney can provide valuable guidance and support.

Get Expert Legal Help to Protect Your Security Clearance

At The Law Office of Justin Schnitzer, we specialize in federal employment law services for federal employees across the country.

Whether you are facing disciplinary action, discrimination, retaliation, or other employment-related issues, our federal employment attorneys are here to provide the legal support and guidance you need. Contact us today or call 202-964-4878 to schedule your initial consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your federal employment law matter.