As the government shutdown stretches into its third week Air Force Public Affairs released new guidance to the civilian workforce concerning how financial hardships will impact their security clearance.
When it comes to protecting a clearance, their biggest piece of advice is to communicate.
“If you find yourself in a situation where financial problems or significant debt are a concern to you, it is best to let the chain of command know early and enable them to help you work through the problem,” said Maj. Neil Whelden, Security and Special Programs oversight officer.
The article points out that the biggest issue when it comes to financial issues isn’t the fact that they exist, it’s what caused them, and how a person dealt with them. Certainly being up front and self-reporting issues is key. But don’t feel compelled to race to your facility security officer the first time you’re unable to make a payment. Many bills – including utilities, mortages, and other monthly expenses – offer grace periods. If you make a call to the companies or creditors, you can often work out extensions or payment plans that reflect your current financial strain. Above all, keep clear records of both your bills, and your attempts to pay them.
Air Force officials also offered the following tips:
– Work with creditors to maintain debt in a responsible manner
– Keep documentation of financial situations and communications with creditors
– Keep the local security office informed of any emerging financial problems
Proactive communication between members and financial institutions is key to ensuring significant debt does not pile up, which could hurt a security clearance, according to Whelden.
“Personnel should reach out to banks and creditors to renegotiate debt terms or mitigate debt impact,” he said. “Many banks are willing to change terms and defer payments for furloughed employees.”
In addition to the suggestions above, there are several issues that should be reported to the unit’s security officer. They include:
– Bankruptcy or required credit counseling
– Inability to pay federal, state or other taxes
– Delinquency on alimony or child support
– Judgment for failure to meet financial obligations
– Liens placed against the holder
– Delinquency on a federal debt
– Repossessions of property
– Suspension of accounts, charge offs or cancellation for failure to pay
– Evictions
– Garnished wages
– More than 120 days delinquent on any debt
