The short answer is yes, you can quit your job during a background investigation. However, understanding the implications of this decision is key. This question often arises from individuals undergoing a background investigation for a security clearance tied to a potential new job while still employed elsewhere.
If you’re considering quitting, doing so typically won’t negatively impact your security clearance investigation. As long as your departure isn’t related to workplace misconduct or performance issues, it’s unlikely to affect the adjudication process. The investigation focuses on your eligibility for the clearance and isn’t tied to your current employment status.
Reporting Changes to Your New Employer
While you don’t have to report leaving your job to the investigator, it’s good practice to inform the security officer at your new company. This ensures transparency and helps with tracking, but it’s not mandatory for the investigation itself.
What Happens if Your Current Employer Sponsors the Clearance?
If your current employer is sponsoring your clearance, quitting may pause the process. The investigation enters a “loss of jurisdiction” status, effectively suspending it. However, if another employer picks up the sponsorship within a certain timeframe, the process can resume without starting over.
Ultimately, you should prioritize what’s best for your career and life circumstances. Many worry about clearance eligibility unnecessarily, but unless your departure is linked to misconduct, it’s unlikely to pose an issue. For more updates on security clearance topics, subscribe to ClearanceJobs’ YouTube channel.
