Whether you’ve never had a security clearance, have had one for decades, or are looking to obtain one prior to starting a new position, there is no shortage of misinformation. Some components of the cleared world are straightforward, such as protocols and clearance requirements – but many individuals still find themselves sorting through the nuances of the non-negotiables you’re required to have to land a security clearance, and which “requirements” are just propagandized myths.
3 Security Clearance Myths
Keep reading to hear about three of the most common security clearance myths and why they are false. Filtering the facts from the fiction will ensure you aren’t misled, whether you already hold a security clearance or are trying to obtain one; the reality may refresh your spirits and motivate you to start the process. Take the quiz to bust those security clearance myths!
Myth #1: Having a Security Clearance Requires a Spotless Background
Having a security clearance is undoubtedly associated with certain morals, habits, and lifestyle choices, but investigators know that no one is perfect. Patterns of behavior almost always have a bigger impact than a small blot from your past, depending on what happened. Don’t let one-off instances from your past discourage you from pursuing clearance.
Myth #2: Debt Automatically Disqualifies You from Having a Security Clearance
Sure, out of control debts or loans with minimal to no follow through will likely raise a flag, but debt by itself isn’t the problem – how you steward it is what gets noticed. Making regular payments towards debt can actually be seen as a measure of responsibility if you’re paying on time and in full installments.
Myth #3: Leaving Minor Things Off the SF-86 Doesn’t Matter
In the case of the SF-86, omitting information is typically seen as a greater offense than the actual bit of information you may be leaving out. Choosing to intentionally leave something off the SF-86 puts your character in question, which is what investigators care about more than single instances from your past. Do you tend to be forthcoming, honest, and transparent? Those qualities are vitally more important than almost any mistake, and they’re what investigators will pay attention to.
Don’t let the false rumors regarding security clearance dissuade you from immersing yourself in the cleared world – just know how to discern between reality and all of the made-up stories.
