subject: Security Clearance Denial: The True Cost of Debt [print this page] Security Clearance Denial: The True Cost of Debt
Those granted governmental and military security clearances are required to uphold strict standards in behavior and must maintain a permanent professional demeanor. They are required to keep in top physical shape, limit the consumption of alcohol, steer clear of illegal drugs and adhere to the law at all times. In addition, debt can be a deciding factor in whether to grant and maintain military security clearance.
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) states in article 134 that military personnel are required by law to clear their debts. Because of this, many businesses are eager to get their credit in the hands of military personnel, knowing that payment is guaranteed. Unfortunately this is a dangerous situation, as a credit company can call a First Sergeants and demand payment, even if it means taking the money directly out of the paychecks of the military employee.
One of the documents that are very closely inspected in the military security clearance process is the individual's credit report. Security clearance may be denied to those with poor credit, in particular those with a high debt-to-credit ratio. This is important to know, since there are many military positions that require security clearance, and when denied, individuals may be disqualified or fired from those jobs.
There are resources available for military personnel to learn more about debt management, such as financial planning courses and financial advisors. These free financial courses often cover planning, budgeting, repairing credit history, investment advice, and more. Often, it is a good idea to consult these courses early in a career and ideally before embarking into the Military. Many Commanding Officers, First Sergeants and supervisors will work with an employee's existing debt in order to deal with what the individual may be facing, so that debt is cleared before it has the chance to ruin their career.
Unfortunately, some members of the military may refuse to pay their debts or just find them too large to handle. Because the members of the military are required to repay loans and debts, those who fail to do so may find themselves discharged with bad-conduct, with six months confinement and forfeiture of all income and allowances.
Excessive debt is difficult for any individual to handle, and when it means costing you your livelihood or job, it becomes an even bigger burden. Military personnel who are struggling with debt should seek assistance as soon as possible in order to learn about options and prevent the possibility of termination due to debt. It is a good idea for military members to ask their supervisor, family support center, or First Sergeant for more information about debt relief. If you feel you have had your security clearance denied or revoked, unwarranted, call the security clearance appeal lawyers at The Edmunds Law Firm. Our team has a strong history of winning cases appealing to Guideline F. If you need help filing a security clearance appeal, contact us today. Fill out the contact form on our website to set up a free consultation with an attorney.
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