As we look ahead to 2026 will hold, security clearance holders should prepare for continued transformation in both how clearances are granted and how eligibility is maintained. Evolving technology, policy reforms, workforce trends, and expanded scrutiny are reshaping the landscape for federal employees and cleared contractors alike.
Changing Processes for Some Clearance Holders
Several federal agencies—including the National Security Agency (NSA) and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA)—are modifying portions of their security clearance appeals process. Many other agencies are likely in the process of updating their clearance appeals processes themselves. The goal is to attempt to resolve easier cases earlier and let the more difficult ones move to the more expansive appeals process. These new adjustments will affect how appeals are processed and presented. I expect to see more changes in this area across the federal space in 2026.
Increased Continuous Vetting
Continuous Vetting (CV) and other real-time monitoring systems are being deployed more broadly across the executive branch. As automated systems and data integration improve, events like traffic arrests, financial changes, or other reportable occurrences may be flagged more quickly than in previous years. The goal of near-real-time visibility means clearance holders must be diligent in self-reporting quickly and mindful of how automated systems interpret data. I have seen cases in the last 2 months where individuals were flagged by security clearance offices within 5 days on a law enforcement incident.
Catching Up with Security Clearance Processing
Clearance backlogs created by the government shutdown and staffing shortages are still being addressed. While agencies are working to reduce these delays, reinvestigations and adjudication timelines may remain uneven—requiring proactive case management and prompt responses from applicants and holders. I expect the government to start catching up with the backlog within 2-3 months, maybe around April.
Growth in Government Contracting and Federal Hiring
After a period of downsizing cleared federal employees, hiring has historically rebounded the following year in both the public and private sector cleared space. I think that 2026 will be no different. Individuals should expect increased demand for cleared professionals this year, along with competitive vetting as agencies seek low-risk candidates who can contribute immediately to mission objectives.
Digital Footprints and Online Scrutiny
Online activity continues to become an integral part of clearance reviews. Social media posts, digital associations, and even peripheral online behavior may be reviewed by adjudicators for indicators of judgment, susceptibility to influence, or risk of exploitation. Given expanding data availability in 2026, clearance holders should assume their digital footprint is subject to more review. Clearance holders and applicants should plan accordingly.
AI, Automation, and Data Accuracy Challenges
Artificial intelligence and automated processes are being adopted to accelerate vetting and identify potential security concerns. However, these systems may produce false positives or miscategorize benign behavior as a concern, placing a greater burden on individuals to clarify or dispute records. This is a work in progress and will eventually expedite security clearance processing.
Financial and Suitability Scrutiny
Financial stability remains a core adjudicative concern. In 2026, economic pressures, new employment models, gig work, and added scrutiny around foreign financial interests will make financial clarity and proactive management more important than ever. Parallel suitability standards may also tighten, especially as the Office of Personnel Management considers rule changes that would broaden continuous vetting and align suitability actions more closely with security vetting practices.
Insider Threat and Behavioral Monitoring
Insider threat programs are expanding to detect not only espionage risks but also workplace stressors, behavioral anomalies, and personal challenges that may affect judgment or reliability. While intended to identify risks early, these programs also raise new concerns about privacy and workplace oversight. I have seen these issues flagged more frequently through 2025 and these systems will only get more efficient in 2026.
Final Thoughts
For security clearance holders, 2026 promises opportunities and challenges. Changes in policy, technology, and workforce dynamics will continue to impact both how clearances are obtained and how they are maintained. Staying informed, being proactive in reporting, and understanding evolving expectations will be essential to successfully navigating this landscape.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or a substitute for professional guidance. Laws, agency policies, and adjudicative standards may change over time; clearance holders should consult with qualified counsel or security professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
