Completing the SF-86 can feel overwhelming. It’s one of the most detailed forms you’ll ever fill out, and even small mistakes or missing information can slow down your background investigation. The good news? A little preparation goes a long way.
Here are a few best practices before you hit submit.
Ask for More Time if You Need It
Many applicants don’t realize that the initial deadline is often flexible. If you need extra time to gather accurate information, contact your security office or Facility Security Officer (FSO) as soon as possible. It’s far better to submit a complete and accurate SF-86 than a rushed one filled with errors.
Investigate Yourself First
Think like your future investigator. Before you begin:
- Pull a copy of your credit report.
- Review your social media profiles.
- Gather addresses, employment dates, travel history, and contact information.
- Verify dates with old tax documents, leases, resumes, or calendars.
The more you can corroborate ahead of time, the fewer surprises you’ll encounter during the investigation.
Accuracy Beats Speed
Don’t guess. If you’re unsure of a date or address, take the time to research it. The SF-86 is the foundation of your background investigation, and inconsistencies often create additional questions—not necessarily because of the information itself, but because it doesn’t line up. DCSA also recommends using the built-in guidance within the eApp system and reviewing every section before submitting.
Learn from the Experts
Want more practical advice? Tune in to Security Clearance Insecurity, where Elisabeth and Lindy share their best tips for completing the SF-86, common mistakes to avoid, and how a little preparation can make the entire security clearance process much smoother.
