Security clearance denial rate The analysis suggests that delinquent debt levels play less of a role in determing final clearance outcomes than was originally anticipated; it also provide some empirical support for raising the delinquent debt threshold above the current $600 threshold amount. Oct 15, 2020 · A detailed analysis of denial and revocation statistics involving psychological conditions clearly demonstrates that a cleared individual is not likely to lose or fail to gain clearance eligibility after seeking mental health care or experiencing mental health symptoms. That means security clearance denials are based on the belief that an individual may compromise national security – not a one-time mistake or lack of judgment. . Nov 22, 2023 · And officials have denied or revoked DOD security clearances based solely on psychological conditions in just 68 cases since 2012, or 0. What do you think my chances are of getting an interim approved with two minor in possessions of alcohol I received 5 years ago? I know that an interim involves a credit check, criminal check and a favorable review Regarding denial rate, I have only met one person who was rumored to have been denied his clearance, but I think there was ultimately an issue with his polygraph. 5%; whereas, the declination rate for interim security clearances has been about 20% to 30% 3. Most of the time this can be avoided by taking a few small actions, which will be discussed. Thanks! Nov 22, 2023 · Yet despite these assurances, fears still exist within the ranks that seeking help could lead to their security clearance being denied or revoked, sinking a career in the process. DISCO receives completed security clearance investigations from the Office Find answers to common questions about security clearance requirements, investigations, SF86 processing, facility clearances, and more. Administratively the adjudicative process at DISCO is slightly different from other federal adjudicative facilities, but case outcomes are statistically similar at all facilities. One commenter on the blog (ClearanceJobs news contributor William Henderson) informs the original poster that “At CIA, it can take over a year. What is a Red Flag for a Security Clearance? Oct 20, 2019 · The security clearance denial rate is a hot topic among clearance applicants for the DoD and other agencies like the NSA, CIA, and FBI. This article dives into the top reasons for denials, such as financial issues, and examines evolving protocols enhancing security. The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency clearance denials and approvals at the various delinquent debt categories. The interim eligibility is made concurrently with the initiation of the A place to ask questions and share advice about the security clearance process. A place to ask questions and share advice about the security clearance… What is the denial rate for security clearances? The denial rate for interim clearances is around 20 to 30% but is only 1% for full security clearances. I was able to successfully appeal at an in-person board hearing a few weeks ago and received a letter that I’m “eligible to continue processing Through the end of November 2017 the Defense Office of Hearing and Appeals (DOHA) Board heard 2,054 clearance denial appeals. But don’t lose Feb 11, 2022 · Every candidate is evaluated carefully during the security clearance application process. Oct 2, 2015 · Among issues flagged that most often resulted in a denial of security clearance, sexual misconduct led the list (83 percent denied), followed by criminal conduct (81 percent) and personal conduct (80 percent). Security clearance denial rates vary annually based on economic and geopolitical factors. Easier to do than to deny someone a clearance. May 30, 2012 · The Defense Industrial Security Clearance Office (DISCO) processes the vast majority of security clearances for federal contractor personnel. For applicants with unfavorable information in their personal histories, it’s necessary to mitigate this information at the clearance application stage of the process in order to receive May 21, 2015 · The same ODNI report that outlined reductions in the cleared workforce provided insight into the rate of denials within the intelligence community, as well as the reasons behind significant delays 21 votes, 22 comments. Why is it critical to understand these often-surprising denial statistics, the common reasons for denial, the challenging appeals process, and robust proactive strategies? I've seen people on this subreddit say interim clearances are granted only 20-30% of the time, while outside sources claim that interim clearances are only denied 20-30% of the time. May 30, 2012 · The denial rate for final security clearances is only about 2. When someone asks about a clearance failure, they are not thinking in terms of security clearance vs. If denied, follow practical steps for reapplication. May 8, 2011 · The denial rate for final security clearances is only about 1%; whereas, the declination rate for interim security clearances has been about 20% to 30% 3. Aug 9, 2025 · Top Secret clearances, which involve more extensive background checks, typically have higher denial rates, with around 10% denied in FY2020, compared to 5% for Secret clearances. Aug 27, 2015 · Security Clearance Denial Rate The report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence was part of an effort to reduce the overall number of clearances and to review the process for awarding and administering them, according to the Federal Times article. Interim security clearances allow individuals to get to work with a basic background and fingerprint check, as they await the completion of a full investigation. They have been adopted within the U. How the Clearance Appeal Process Works When a federal agency decides to deny or revoke your clearance, you’ll typically receive: A Letter of Interrogatory (LOI) or Statement of Reasons (SOR), detailing why you are being denied a clearance (citing specific guidelines from the Adjudicative Guidelines for Determining Eligibility for Access to Classified Information). This article explains the common reasons why security clearances may be denied or revoked. As usual, financial issues outnumbered all other issues combined and resulted in most of the denials. According to recent data from the U. 00115% of the time, according to DCSA. 5% of the general population will be eligible for a clearance. The Investigation Process Before you get started, learn more about the investigation process. At National Security Law Firm, we understand the HME appeal and waiver process and will put together a comprehensive appeal and/or waiver application on your behalf. Mar 26, 2017 · For security clearance assistance, readers may wish to consider Attorney John Berry, who is available to advise and represent clients in all phases of the security clearance process, including pre-application counseling, denials, revocations, and appeals. This provisional clearance allows them to perform duties that involve the use of sensitive information or restricted areas during the waiting period. W. I just got interim granted after waiting for oddly long time which is 4 months! Now I'm wondering about average timeframe to get full clearance granted and chances of getting it denied. Next on the list was the National Reconnaissance Office, with a 3. Jul 15, 2022 · Read our blog to learn why most DOHA appeals end in denial and how a security clearance attorney can help you improve your approval chances. The stakes are too high to wish a problem away. Denied a security clearance? Our experienced lawyers specialize in security clearance denials and appeals, helping you protect your career and secure your future. Jan 28, 2025 · An important change in due process allows applicants a due process hearing with DCSA prior to a clearance denial or revocation decision for DoD civilians, military servicemembers, and SCI contractor personnel administered by DCSA. Jun 20, 2025 · As the old saying goes, “a penny of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Nov 10, 2022 · Getting a security clearance is an important part of many federal and military service jobs. Jan 8, 2025 · What is Security Clearance? For starters, a security clearance is an official determination that an individual may access some level of classified information. Jan 6, 2022 · If the denial is upheld, applicants are barred from applying for security clearance for one year. Stay informed on how to maintain clearance eligibility amidst Oct 3, 2025 · However, overall, the rejection rate for security clearances is generally low. Understand the profound impact a denial can have on your professional and personal life. Oct 16, 2025 · The reality of security clearance denial rates is a significant factor, a hurdle that can derail even the most promising careers. Learn how to minimize risks through financial stability, accurate applications, and more. This article explores the significant impacts of denial and offers essential tips for improving your security clearance application. Jan 3, 2023 · The Defense Office of Hearing and Appeals (DOHA) has resumed their pre-COVID-19 pace on security clearance appeals hearings and published summaries of 943 cases that were reviewed. Ever wonder how many people actually get denied a security clearance? You asked, Lindy answers, on this week's Ask Lindy! #nationalsecurity #clearancejobs #s When a case contains significant unmitigated derogatory information, the adjudicator issues a “Letter of Intent” (LOI) to deny a clearance. I am now trying to apply for positions requiring a public trust Oct 3, 2024 · Disqualification for security clearance based on seeking mental health treatment is highly unlikely based on data from millions of security investigations at every security level reviewed by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency. Nov 10, 2022 · Top Administrative Reasons for a Security Clearance Application Rejection (Not a Clearance Denial) DCSA rejected 24,999 security clearance applications for administrative reasons from Oct. 905 (1991). Learn about common denial reasons like financial and criminal issues, your legal rights, and the appeals process. Mar 29, 2022 · INTERIM CLEARANCES The federal policy against drawing negative inferences solely on the basis of mental health treatment and the very low denial rates for final clearances do not apply to interim security clearances. So if you receive a denial, be patient; odds are you'll be a security clearance holder working to protect our national security soon. Personnel Security Appeals Board (PSAB) The purpose of the PSAB is to make the final decision on appeals of revocation or denial of security clearance eligibility/SCI access eligibility for Department of the Army military and civilian members, and DA contractors requiring eligibility for SCI access. You would know if you were denied a clearance. Brown, 913 F. Transparent pricing. Being denied a security clearance or having your security clearance revoked can have lasting effects that ripple through your personal and professional life. This access is not automatically given, and the process involves a thorough background investigation to determine an individual’s trustworthiness and loyalty to the United States. Below is a breakdown by adjudicative category of the types of issues involved (Note – many cases Jul 18, 2025 · Learn the steps for navigating the security clearance appeal process. Jun 11, 2025 · This blog explains the common reasons for security clearance denial or revocation, such as financial instability, criminal conduct, or foreign influence, and provides an in-depth analysis of mitigating factors that can reduce concerns. A previous denial doesn’t mean you’re destined to be denied a future security clearance, though. Layer that on top of the government or contractor application and hire process, and it can be difficult to keep track of the hoops you have to hop through on your path to a Discover how to navigate the complex world of denied security clearances. com. 5 percent revocation rate. Because national security positions are tied to federal job requirements, you’ll face a separate suitability and security clearance determination. Learn more about security clearance processing timelines, how to fill out the SF86, the criteria for Jul 25, 2025 · Received a Statement of Reasons for security clearance denial? Learn how to respond effectively and protect your career with the right legal steps. Jan 21, 2021 · Late Tuesday the DoD issued guidance “simplifying, centralizing, and unifying” the administrative process for appealing unfavorable security clearances. Whether you’re applying for your first clearance, appealing a revocation, or fighting a denial, having the right legal representation can make all the difference. 2d 1399, 1401 (9th Cir. Understand how to address the government’s stated concerns and present your case for eligibility. A place to ask questions and share advice about the security clearance… Some sources report the “denial rate” for interim clearances can be as high as 30%, while the denial rate for final security clearances can run as low as ONE percent. But Defense Department data obtained exclusively by Military Times reveals that is not the case, and that troops lose or are denied a security clearance due to psychological issues at a low rate, and far less often An individual who has received a final revocation or denial of their security clearance from the DCSA Adjudication and Vetting Services (AVS) may appeal a decision through the Personnel Security Appeals Board (PSAB) of the associated military service branch or the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA), the legal entity managing the case. The equip she completed, is it assumed the equip was for the position she was applying to? The reason I am asking is that my L clearance was revoked due to unsuccessfully passing a 10 year background investigation for my agency. Government security clearances, the National Industrial Security Program (NISP), the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and Department of Defense Personnel Security and Facility Security Programs. Here's what might disqualify you. If you’ve been denied an interim security clearance, don’t assume all hope is lost. Learn about trends and the stricter evaluations shaping eligibility for roles involving classified data. Jun 29, 2020 · Security clearance jobs involve more than your typical apply-hire process. And if you find yourself on the other end of a Top Secret clearance denial, you may be surprised to discover your In order to start, the offer is contingent on my ability to be granted a secret security clearance. Guideline B of the security clearance Guidelines specifically If your security clearance was denied or revoked, the experienced security clearance denials lawyers at the National Security Law Firm today. Many military and government employees and contractors need security clearance to fulfill their roles. Seek legal guidance for security clearance denials. Many military and government employees and contractors needsecurity clearanceto fulfill their roles. Discover why security clearance denials occur, from financial issues to foreign ties, and learn how to overcome them. Common Reasons for Denial Security clearance determinations are guided by 13 adjudicative guidelines, which assess an individual’s trustworthiness and reliability. Interim eligibility will be issued only where facts and circumstances indicate access to classified information is clearly consistent with the national security interest of the United States. Dec 17, 2024 · Attorney “Luke Ross” from National Security Law form is charging $5000 flat fee for filing my appeal for Public Trust Sf85P T4 high security denial. What can you do if your application was denied? What To Do if You Were Denied Security Clearance? There are many more reasons to deny your security clearance than there are to approve it. 0%, wouldn't that make it seem like their suitability criteria is relatively lax compared to the other 3 letter agencies? Nov 8, 2025 · The security clearance denial rate is a hot topic among clearance applicants for the DoD and other agencies like the NSA, CIA, and FBI. Mr. 47K subscribers in the SecurityClearance community. Following it was the CIA, with a 5. 8 percent denial rate and 0. - Security Clearance Security Clearance Guideline B: Foreign Influence The Security Adjudicative Guidelines (often referred to collectively as “The Guidelines”) are outlined in Security Executive Agent Directive 4 (SEAD 4). It also highlights the importance of legal assistance, particularly from a former military lawyer, to navigate the security clearance process and appeal Jan 2, 2023 · Obtaining a Top Secret clearance after obtaining a Secret clearance has both career development and financial perks. government and support all three branches of the federal government, the main elements being the Military Departments, National Industrial Security Program (NISP), and the DOD Fourth Estate. As a reminder, these are only the results from DOD Industrial Security contractor appeals and do not include security clearance denials or appeals processed for the military, the Intelligence Community agencies, State Department, Department of Energy, or the various other government agencies that grant their own clearances. Oct 31, 2019 · For security clearance assistance, readers may wish to consider Attorney John Berry, who is available to advise and represent clients in all phases of the security clearance process, including pre-application counseling, denials, revocations, and appeals. If you are denied an interim clearance, this may be due to a variety of factors and does not necessarily indicate where your background investigation is going to lead. For applicants with unfavorable information in their personal histories, it’s necessary to mitigate this information at the clearance application stage of the process in order to receive an Sep 28, 2018 · Is there a certain period after submitting the sf86 when you can expect to get a suitability denial if issues on your sf86 are overwhelming? Or can they be given at any period throughout the BI? The Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA) conducts industrial security clearance reviews for Defense contractor employees who appeal the denial or revocation of a security clearance. At Citizen Soldier Nov 29, 2010 · About 1% or 1,350 cases (sum of the 2 figures shown in red) of the approximately 150,000 completed investigations received by DISCO each year result in clearance denial or revocation. You’re probably losing sleep wondering: “What are my chances if I appeal? Does anyone ever actually win these things?” You might have heard that most security clearance appeals fail – and the truth is, the numbers are sobering. Government as the primary source for determining security clearance eligibility. 20. Re-applying after a clearance denial can be complicated and require extra steps but is well worth the work if clearance is important for your job. denied, 499 U. Nov 13, 2025 · If you're applying for a US security clearance, know the possible disqualifiers ahead of time. Our firm specializes in appeals for federal employees and contractors nationwide. We fight for you. In contrast, interim clearances are expedited and subject to a preliminary review, leading to a higher likelihood of denials for any immediate concerns. DISCO processes about 150,000 personnel security clearances each year for DoD contractors and contractors of 23 other federal agencies. Jul 31, 2025 · DOD Security Clearance Revocation and Denials Retired Marine and Army Judge Advocates with Active, Reserve and National Guard Service When you expect a problem, let us discuss it with you earlier rather than later. If a security clearance is denied, it Appeals Has anyone who’s been denied based off SOR Response had any luck appealing the decision with the in person process with the administration judge? Statistics on how security clearance processing times and security clearance population trends affect your security cleared recruiting. Which in turn I lost my position on a contract and I’m no longer with that company. Discover the factors leading to security clearance denials, including financial issues, personal conduct, and foreign influences. Often issues that come up in the denial of an interim clearance can be mitigated through the interview and adjudication process. Jan 3, 2022 · Misuse of IT Systems and Handling Protected Information produced fewer security security clearance denials in 2021 over 2020. I submitted my e-QIP 2 weeks ago and have been updated by my security officer that my case is being worked as of yesterday. S. With the wealth of information available on the ClearanceJobs. We can assist you in navigating this complex process and will effectively employ the Adjudicative Guidelines to your benefit. Mar 11, 2012 · The average security clearance denial rate among federal agencies is about 2. Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal agencies, around 2-5% of security clearance applications are typically denied each year. This determination is made by an agency in the United States government and can be granted, denied, or revoked at any time. For instance, in FY 2020, about 2% of applications received denials, according to The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA). A clearance denial is permanent on your record. Free consults. Jul 8, 2020 · The idea of a security clearance denial is scary—and as it turns out, it’s confusing, too. com main Oct 14, 2012 · The NSA topped the list, denying 8 percent and revoking 1. Obtaining and maintaining a United States security clearance is a critical requirement for millions of individuals working in national security roles, whether in the military, as federal civilian employees, or as government contractors. The denial rate for interim clearances is around 20 to 30% but is only 1% for full security clearances. Discover why security clearances are denied, with fluctuating rates and rising scrutiny. Lindy Kyzer is the director of content at ClearanceJobs. In practice, this means the DoD will now give its employees and contractors the same rights when appealing a denied clearance. Nov 3, 2019 · But don’t lose heart – 20-30% of all interim security clearances are denied, but that is vastly different than the figure of final clearance denials, which hovers around 1%. 53K subscribers in the SecurityClearance community. Feb 2, 2021 · If your security clearance is denied or revoked, you have a right to an appeal. An opportunity to respond May 29, 2020 · Hello, Does anyone have a rough estimate about what the discontinuance/denial rate is for an SSBI more or less? I don’t mean the 1%-3% who are denied after a full investigation, rather, the people actually discontinued before the SSBI occurs. Apr 20, 2021 · Read more about some of the most common reasons why security clearances are denied by visiting the Claery & Hammond, LLP law blog. Denial or revocation of security clearance, thereby precluding ability to perform duties in assigned rating. The clearance was pulled due to the NSA adjudication process and denial of access to sci. Security Clearance Frequently Asked Questions Answers to frequently asked questions about U. In early 2021, Hakamaa examined the industrial security clearance case denials by DOHA in 2019 and 2020 by tallying the number of denials attributed to each adjudicative guideline (A–M; see Table 1). Jan 8, 2024 · The Defense Office of Hearing and Appeals published summaries of 950 appeals cases for security clearance denials or revocations. The purpose of this study was to assess What are the odds that I will get a security clearance with (inserts background information)? Or What kind of a timeline am I looking at for my clearance? In regards to "odds" for security clearances, there is no posted data of an exact percentage of what will pass on a clearance investigation and what will get you denied. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. These are industrial security clearance eligibility decisions by DOHA Administrative Judges regarding DoD contractors and the contractors for over 30 other federal departments and agencies under the National Industrial Security Program. 20 votes, 45 comments. We’ll explore the four most common reasons security clearances get denied or revoked so you can succeed where others have failed. May 30, 2012 · The Defense Industrial Security Clearance Office (DISCO) is a Central Adjudication Facility (CAF) that is part of the Defense Security Service. About 20% to 30% of cases decided by DOHA Administrative Judges are appealed by either the applicant or the DOHA Department Counsel. Foreign contacts are a national security concern if they result in divided allegiance or create situations in which an individual may be manipulated, pressured, coerced, or induced to help a foreign person, group Oct 21, 2013 · The average security clearance denial rate among federal agencies is about 2. Mar 26, 2020 · With security clearance processing times still nearly a year or more for many applicants, the need for interim security clearances has only increased. - Security Clearance We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Jul 4, 2025 · A security clearance denial has professional consequences. But what does it mean if your interim clearance is denied? We also complete some background investigations for other branches of the government when it is the most efficient use of Government resources and in the best interest of National Security. 5%, but that doesn’t mean that 97. Mar 13, 2018 · Security clearance denial can derail career for those that need access to confidential information Lawyers can help smooth process Sep 15, 2023 · Learn the issues leading to denial of a security clearance application from the federal employment lawyers at The Law Firm of J. So if you receive a denial, be patient; odds are you’ll be a security clearance holder working to protect our national security soon. I'm extremely worried my red flags will potentially derail my clearance. 1990), cert. 4 percent revocation rate. For information regarding rate conversions see MILPERSMAN 1440-011. 6 percent of the security clearance cases it adjudicated in the 2011 fiscal year. Berry can be found at https://berrylegal. 3 percent denial rate and a 0. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most effective defense strategies for responding to a clearance denial, breaking down common pitfalls, insider tactics, and key concepts under the National Security Adjudicative Guidelines (SEAD 4). Only about 1 percent of final security clearances are denied; the rate is 20 – 30 percent for interim clearances. Get expert advice on compliance and managing foreign associations to boost your approval chances. Contact us today for expert help. However, an appeal at the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA) may not be what you think it is. Jun 26, 2025 · Obtaining a security clearance is required for individuals working in government, military, defense contracting, and other fields requiring access to classified information that could impact national security. If anyone has any insights on this, please educate me. In December, 1999, USA Today published an article suggesting that DOHA granted security clearances in a manner inconsistent with applicable adjudicative guidelines. "If you feel you could benefit from talking to a mental health professional or using medication, you can do so without fear this will impact your Mar 25, 2021 · Some sources report the “denial rate” for interim clearances can be as high as 30%, while the denial rate for final security clearances can run as low as ONE percent. Some agencies issue a Letter of Denial with an SOR, but it is essentially the same as an LOI Mar 6, 2024 · I had my TS//SCI clearance pulled late last year which was held by DCSA. The denial rate is so low because most candidates are screened out before security clearance adjudication. Is that data accurate? Also does the DoD do all the security clearances for the military? Mar 4, 2025 · The denial rate for interim clearances is around 20 to 30% but is only 1% for full security clearances. If you are about to apply for clearance, you may want to know th So I found some information that the DoD only denies 0. Interim security clearance is a temporary authorization status that is granted to individuals who seek access to classified information or secured facilities while their full security clearance is being processed. ” Taking a few moments now to understand how security clearances can be threatened may provide you with vital information later on. The government will tell you in writing. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is true and it usually will result in lower legal fees also. While 99% may seem like a very large percentage of clearance approvals, it does Mar 1, 2025 · Yes, a rejection for a TS/SCI clearance can negatively impact your existing Secret clearance, especially if the denial is based on information discovered during the TS/SCI investigation that could also be considered a concern for your Secret clearance level; in some cases, a TS/SCI denial could lead to a review and potential revocation of your Were you actually denied a clearance (you submitted the SF86, and and investigation was done with a denial) or was it a “preemptive” denial where whomever your prospective employer is thought you wouldn’t actually get cleared? Denied or at risk? Our former DOHA, JAG, and agency attorneys user insider knowledge to win clearance cases nationwide. Understanding these disqualification thresholds—and implementing proactive mitigation strategies—can reduce clearance Nov 9, 2020 · The good news is with security clearance processing times dramatically improving, the average applicant who is denied an interim security clearance only has to wait an additional month or two for a final favorable security clearance – not a year or more. suitability, they are asking what percentage are denied for any reason during the process. Aug 25, 2022 · Here's What Can Happen When the Average Clearance Holder Mishandles Classified Information It very, very rarely results in security clearance denial and revocation. Is it worth it how difficult is it if I file it on my own. The granting of an interim May 15, 2021 · There is a big difference between being denied a security clearance and an agency denying you suitability. I have foreign contacts; will I be denied a security clearance? It is not unusual for Department of State applicants, employees, and contractors to have foreign contacts. Facing a security clearance denial or revocation can be downright terrifying. 30, 2021. DISCO favorably adjudicates about 75% of these cases after the We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 1% of security clearances. As you can see, financial issues continue to outpace all other issues combined. A discontinue is also permanent on your record, but you don’t have to report that on any questionnaire and the weight of a discontinue SECURITY CLEARANCE DENIED: THE MOST COMMON PITFALLS FOR SECURITY CLEARANCE APPLICATIONS By: Ziran Zhang "There is a strong presumption against granting a security clearance. Jul 11, 2021 · For security clearance assistance, readers may wish to consider Attorney John Berry, who is available to advise and represent clients in all phases of the security clearance process, including pre-application counseling, denials, revocations, and appeals. But if you sailed through a Secret security clearance investigation that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be able to jump straight into a Top Secret clearance. Oct 31, 2020 · Ask for assistance from a security clearance attorney. I have noticed a common thread among many of the case summaries written by Defense Office of Hearing and Appeals (DOHA) judges when explaining the board’s rationale for upholding the initial denial or revocation of an applicant’s eligibility for a security clearance. Nov 25, 2019 · But the security clearance process is designed to allow individuals to demonstrate their trustworthiness based on the ‘ whole person’ concept. Data shows that full security clearances have a denial rate of about 3%, considerably lower than the interim clearance denial rate of 7%. Gain insights into strategic reapplication and making positive changes to increase your chances of future approval. Essential reading for anyone facing the setback of a security clearance denial. Whyd you get denied? Did you appeal? Did appeal grant you clearance or did they deny you again? 124 votes, 25 comments. 1, 2020 to Sept. We fight like its our own career on the line. These are referred to as industrial cases. Stafford. Aug 15, 2021 · For security clearance assistance, readers may wish to consider Attorney John Berry, who is available to advise and represent clients in all phases of the security clearance process, including pre-application counseling, denials, revocations, and appeals. BREAKDOWN OF DENIALS BY ADJUDICATIVE GUIDELINES Below is a breakdown by adjudicative category of the types of issues involved resulting in the initial denial (Note – many cases involved multiple issues): Nov 10, 2025 · DOD background check disqualifiers encompass 13 adjudicative criteria outlined in SEAD-4 guidelines, with financial issues, foreign contacts, and criminal conduct representing the most common reasons for security clearance denials among defense contractor applicants. Jul 24, 2025 · A security clearance grants individuals access to classified national security information, a privilege fundamental for many government positions and defense contracting roles. Dec 22, 2022 · The denial rate for interim clearances is around 20 to 30% but is only 1% for full security clearances. I was denied a public trust (not even a clearance) for missing performance metrics by 4%, and unable to maintain an outbound call volume of 20 calls / hour at call centers I had previously worked at; If you were denied a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME), you should contact the experienced HME appeal lawyers today at National Security Law Firm. But how do you choose the right security clearance We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. For the record, There are 101 different types of security clearances issued by different nations all around the What to Look For—And Why Experience on Both Sides of the Table Matters Most Navigating the security clearance process can be complex, stressful, and at times, overwhelming. Learn about the formal process that follows and the practical steps you can take to move forward. Interestingly, the number of cases involving use of illegal drugs more than doubled from last year, and many of Jan 5, 2025 · Security clearance denials and revocations for 2024 showed the growing trend of drug use and criminal conduct cases coming up. Here are 10 risk factors in a security clearance review. However, security clearances are not automatically granted to all applicants, and many face denial or revocation due to concerns about their background, financial history, or personal Facing a security clearance denial? Our former DOHA, JAG, and agency attorneys use insider knowledge to win cases--nationwide. Defense Counterintelligence and Security AgencyThe Adjudication and Vetting Services (AVS) handles all interim clearances. Dec 26, 2022 · If the government has denied you a security clearance, you have the right to appeal. We maintain the largest adjudication capability across the U. The reforms are due in part to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit filed on my behalf by Kel McClanahan Jan 10, 2017 · Hello all, I understand the the denial rate for interim secret clearances is higher than the final secret clearance and that certain issues can result in the denial of an interim. The rules of denial are different for federal and military personnel and government contractors, says John Berry, a national security attorney. 3 Because a single denial decision was sometimes attributed to more than one adjudicative category, the counts in the following discussion refer National Security Government Security Civilian Suitability/ Eligibility (DOD) Clearance (Fed) 10% Overall, we executed 99% of all DOD National Security Eligibility determinations, 92% of federal government-wide National Security Eligibility determinations, and 10% of federal government-wide civilian Suitability and Credentialing decisions. Call today. What is the frequency of Interim Secret denial and about how frequently does a denied interim clearance get adjudicated favorably in the end? Since their security clearance denial rate is 0. Your career, income, and reputation are suddenly on the line. Based on their suitability review, these candidates are said to have been “automatically” disqualified. Myth #2: Debt is a Clearance Killer Processing discontinues happen all the time, and for a variety of reasons. If you are a current federal employee, you can also appeal your agency’s decision to take away your security clearance. " Dorfmont v. The LOI is a preliminary, tentative decision and will contain a “ Statement of Reasons ” (SOR) detailing the issues that are the basis of the decision. Aug 27, 2018 · I have a question about the woman who was denied a public trust clearance due to her financial issues. Jul 22, 2025 · Need a trusted national security law firm? Alan Edmunds and his team specialize in security clearance appeals and legal representation. AGENCY SPECIFIC Security clearance denials As always with the security clearance process, ‘it depends’ enters the conversation. zqwuzz ckdzcv fgd rll icfo rjexkdu vdalt atyf bhtba rvnur icka ksidp vgcv wfl wtlqu