New security clearance guidelines: The inside scoop

New security clearance guidelines are coming and they are major. The federal government recently announced continuous financial monitoring of military personnel. Previously, the federal government performed an initial credit check when a service member applied for a security clearance and a follow-up check every five to 10 years thereafter, depending on clearance level.

The change to U.S. military security clearance

The change follows a presidential directive that all federal employees, including military personnel in national security positions, be subject to continuous financial evaluation. Note: many service members, including officers, are required to have national security clearances. The government’s switch to continuous monitoring of the financial status of service members means that a past-due bill or credit mistake could cost them their security clearance or deem them non-deployable. Two of the most reported issues to the Bureau from service members, veterans and their families are issues with credit reporting and debt collection.

Should service members consult an attorney for security clearance?

With that said, it is important to consult an attorney with extensive experience assisting clients in navigating matters involving security clearance suspensions and revocations on the following:

What the new security guidelines mean for military personnel and federal employees with security clearances.
Why this change will make it more difficult to mitigate the government’s concern as it relates to financial considerations.
What service members and federal employees can do to ensure they are not adversely affected by the new guidelines.
What military personnel and federal employees can do if their security clearance is denied or revoked due to financial issues.

Tully Rinckey PLLC Managing Partner Anthony J. Kuhn, a former First Sergeant and 22-year veteran of the U.S. Army and U.S. Army Reserve and a combat veteran, has extensive experience assisting clients in navigating matters involving security clearance suspensions and revocations.

“This change in policy could have a devastating effect for many service members and federal employees, many of whom require a clearance to maintain their current position. A service member or federal employee who is unable to show that they are living within their means or that they are acting responsibly given the circumstances may lose their job and their livelihood as a result of this policy change,” said Tully Rinckey PLLC Managing Partner Anthony J. Kuhn.