Financial issues are the number one reason for security clearance denial and revocation – year after year. One of the most dangerous forms of debt for security clearance holders and applicants is credit card debt.
High credit card debt is a clear sign you may not be living within your means, and may be more susceptible to blackmail.
Cause is a factor in a security clearance determination, so if you built up high debt paying off medical bills, or following a lay-off, that’s a mitigating factor. Regardless of the cause, meet with a credit counselor and follow their advice.
Credit card debt won’t sink your chances of obtaining or keeping your security clearance. But you must take proactive steps to address the problem.
