If you’ve ever been grilled on your high school pizza parlor summer job from 15 years ago or had to answer questions about your old Facebook account, then congratulations – you’ve almost certainly encountered the infamous SF-86 form! The Standard Form 86, abbreviated as SF-86, is the bread and butter of all security clearance applications, and it’s a form that trips up many individuals when they’re beginning the process of obtaining a clearance.
Applying for a security clearance may feel like chaos, but you can bring organization and clarity to the process. Anticipate some potential SF-86 hiccups you may encounter by taking this quiz, and you’ll be on your way to achieving cleared status in no time.
Your SF-86 Survival Guide
1. Master the SF-86 Before You Submit the First Time
Instead of falling into a guessing game with the SF-86, treat each question as a checklist. Maximize your organization on the front end to avoid endless follow-ups on the back end. While time-consuming, double-checking each bit of information requested on the form is crucial for avoiding interrogation over tiny, inconsequential errors. Repeat trips to the DMV because you forgot a secondary proof of address can feel like a waste of time – it’s the same with the SF-86 and accidentally marking your address wrong from 10 years ago because you were rushing.
2. Expect Unexpected Questions
Before you even begin tackling the SF-86, mentally prepare for the amount of information it requests to feel a bit smothering. Try to recall past jobs, places you’ve lived, and notable financial changes before you even look at the form – once you do begin filling it out, you won’t feel shock over each tedious question.
3. Stay Calm During the Waiting Game
The last thing you want to do after you’ve expended all of your energy on the paperwork process is to freak out once you’ve submitted everything. Refreshing your inbox only stands to spike anxiety, so instead, focus on organizing your references and reviewing policies. If a follow-up comes through requesting additional information, you’ll be prepared.
