Security clearance investigations sometimes revisit events from years (even decades) ago. That can surprise clearance holders who thought an issue had already been resolved. One ClearanceJobsBlog forum user recently asked why investigators requested they sign an affidavit confirming their statements during an RSI after discussing incidents from more than 20 years ago.
Why revisit old issues, and why ask for a sworn statement? Here’s what’s going on behind the scenes.
The Question
A forum poster said they were asked detailed questions about events that happened decades earlier, topics they had already discussed during previous investigative interviews. During the process, the investigator asked them to sign an affidavit verifying the accuracy of their statements.
The poster wondered why that step was necessary since investigators ultimately summarize the interview in their own report.
“Undergoing an RSI. All the questions were related to stuff in my distant past (20+ years ago) that were disclosed in prior interactions with DCSA (10+ years ago). So honestly, not really sure why they’re even asking. Anyway, after a few rounds of interviews, now they want me to sign an affidavit agreeing to all the stuff I said in prior interviews. What’s up with that? Are signed affidavits common as part of an RSI? It just seems weird. They’re going to make their decision based on what the investigator wrote down, so what’s the point of having me sign something? If they wrote down something wrong, they’ll believe the investigator over me anyway.”
What Is AN RSI?
In the personnel vetting world, RSI refers to a Reimbursable Suitability/Security Investigation, an additional investigative product requested by a government agency.
According to the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), an RSI is used when an agency needs additional investigative coverage or clarification about specific issues in a case.
For example, agencies may request an RSI when:
- An earlier investigation didn’t cover a required timeframe or issue
- Investigators need more information about a potential concern
- Additional investigative work is required after an investigation has closed
In some cases, previously closed investigations may even be reopened for up to one year after closure if the coverage requirements were not fully met.
In short, an RSI is a targeted follow-up investigation designed to fill in gaps or gather additional information, not necessarily a sign that something is wrong with your clearance.
Why You Might Be Asked to Sign an Affidavit
Being asked to sign an affidavit or sworn statement during an RSI can feel intimidating, but it’s often just a documentation step. Investigators may request a signed statement to:
- Create a formal record: A signed affidavit confirms that the information documented reflects your account of events.
- Clarify key facts for adjudicators: Adjudicators rely on the investigative file when evaluating eligibility. A sworn statement helps ensure the record is clear.
- Resolve inconsistencies: If information from records, references, or past interviews doesn’t align perfectly, investigators may want a signed explanation from the subject.
- Ensure accuracy of the investigative report: Since investigators summarize interviews rather than producing transcripts, a signed statement confirms the wording reflects your intent.
Bill Henderson, ClearanceJobs contributor notes, “If you’re a defense contractor, a DCSA Report of Investigation cannot be entered into evidence at a DOHA hearing over your objection. An affidavit signed by you can be entered into evidence at a DOHA hearing even if you object. DOHA/DCSA usually attaches the ESI/TESI portion of an investigative report to “Interrogatories” for this purpose. Other agencies may call it an affidavit.”
A request to sign an affidavit during an RSI doesn’t automatically mean there’s a problem with your clearance. It could mean investigators are expanding coverage or clarifying details for the official investigative record.
If the statement accurately reflects your explanation, signing it is usually just part of ensuring adjudicators have a clear and complete record when evaluating your case.
Much about the clearance process resembles the Pirate’s Code: “more what you’d call guidelines than actual rules.” For this reason, we maintain ClearanceJobsBlog.com – a forum where clearance seekers can ask the cleared community for advice on their specific security concerns. Ask CJ explores questions posed on the ClearanceJobs Blog forum, emails received, and comments from this site. This article is intended as general information only and should not be construed as legal advice. Consult an attorney regarding your specific situation.
