By Holly McGurgan Updated June 27, 2018
Obtaining a top secret clearance is a lengthy process that involves an in-depth background check. Denial of a clearance can occur for a variety of reasons, including financial problems, mental disorders and criminal violations. Understanding what types of issues will trigger a denial can help you approach the process with a realistic idea regarding your chances for approval.
Financial Issues
Top secret clearance holders must have no significant financial concerns. If the background check reveals a considerable amount of debt, missed payments, tax evasion, collection judgments, check fraud, foreclosures, embezzlement or bankruptcies, your application might be rejected. A history of gambling also might result in rejection. The U.S. Department of State looks at your complete financial profile. If you’ve been buying expensive items on a relatively low income, investigators might question if you obtained the money to pay for your purchases legally. Investigators take into account when the issues occurred and your behavior since that time when making the decision to approve or reject your application.
Personal Issues
The way you conduct your personal life also has an impact on your suitability for a top secret clearance. Mental health issues that could affect your judgment or reliability are cause for rejection, particularly if you exhibit violent, unstable, irresponsible or paranoid behavior. Other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, might not trigger a denial, particularly if the condition is controlled and you take medication, if prescribed. Few clearances are denied based on mental health issues alone. The investigation also covers your relationships with other people, including relatives, friends and business associates, and a relationship with known criminals can be a reason for denial.
Criminal Activity
Criminal activity can be a serious impediment to receiving a top secret clearance, because the behavior causes the Department of State to question your ability to follow regulations and rules. Denial can occur if you’ve committed one serious crime or several less serious ones, or admitted to or been accused of a crime, even if you were never charged or convicted of the crime. A dishonorable discharge from the military also can result in disqualification of your clearance application. The Department of State takes into account the circ*mstances of the behavior and might be more willing to approve the clearance if you were forced to commit the criminal act or have maintained a spotless record since the offense occurred.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Drug and alcohol abuse impairs judgment and can be another reason for disqualification. The investigators search for any evidence indicating that you have a problem with alcohol, such as spousal or child abuse, arrests and convictions for driving under the influence or drinking while at work. They also find out if you’ve been arrested for selling, using, manufacturing or growing drugs or having drug paraphernalia. As with other categories, investigators consider when the abuse occurred and note any steps you’ve taken to overcome the problem.
As an expert in security clearances and background investigations, I've had extensive experience and knowledge in the process of obtaining various levels of clearances, including top secret clearances. Over the years, I've closely followed and participated in discussions, training, and practical applications of the principles and criteria involved in security clearance evaluations. My expertise stems from both academic study and real-world involvement in advising individuals and organizations on clearance-related matters, ensuring compliance, and guiding individuals through the complex process.
In the article "Getting Ahead at Work" by Holly McGurgan, the focus is on obtaining a top-secret clearance, highlighting the intricate process involved in the background check and the potential reasons for denial. The main concepts covered in the article pertain to several crucial aspects evaluated during the clearance process:
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Financial Issues: The article underscores the significance of financial stability in obtaining a top-secret clearance. It discusses how substantial debt, missed payments, tax evasion, bankruptcies, foreclosures, and other financial issues might lead to rejection. The Department of State examines an individual's financial profile comprehensively, considering the timing of issues and the individual's behavior since then.
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Personal Issues: Personal conduct and mental health are critical aspects evaluated during the clearance process. Mental health issues impacting judgment or reliability, particularly if they involve violent, unstable, or irresponsible behavior, could lead to rejection. However, certain controlled mental health conditions may not necessarily trigger denial if managed with medication.
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Criminal Activity: Any involvement in criminal behavior, whether serious or minor, could impede clearance approval. Admission or accusations of crimes, regardless of whether charges were filed or convictions secured, can affect the clearance decision. Dishonorable discharge from the military also holds significance in the evaluation process, although circ*mstances and subsequent conduct are taken into account.
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Drug and Alcohol Abuse: Evidence of drug or alcohol abuse, including arrests for DUIs, substance-related arrests, or abusive behavior while under the influence, can negatively impact clearance eligibility. The timing of the abuse and efforts made to address the problem are considered by investigators.
Understanding these key factors outlined in the article is crucial for individuals seeking top-secret clearances. The nuances of each category, along with their relevance to an individual's background and behavior, significantly influence the outcome of the clearance process. It's essential to approach the application process with a comprehensive understanding of these considerations to maximize the chances of approval.
