How to Fill Out the SF-86 Correctly: Red Flags & Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Understanding the High Stakes of the SF-86

Filling out the Standard Form 86 (SF-86) – the Questionnaire for National Security Positions – is a critical step for anyone seeking a security clearance. Whether you’re in the military, a federal employee, or a government contractor, this form isn’t just paperwork; it’s the gateway to your clearance and career. The SF-86 will be used for your initial background investigation, any reinvestigations, and even continuous monitoring throughout your cleared career. In other words, what you put on this form creates a permanent record that follows you. In fact, the form is a “permanent document” that can be the basis for future investigations, and your responses may be compared with those on previous SF-86 submissions.

Accuracy and honesty are absolutely paramount. The form must be filled out 100% correctly to avoid problems – even a small mistake or omission can derail your clearance. But it’s not only what you say that matters – how you say it can be just as important. Context and wording can mean the difference between a smooth processing versus your responses triggering additional scrutiny. Remember, when adjudicators review your form, they’re not just looking at the facts you disclose, but also evaluating your honesty, judgment, and attention to detail in how you disclose them.

Importantly, small issues or half-truths now can cause big problems later. You might think leaving out an uncomfortable detail (like an old mistake) spares you in the short term, but it often backfires. Many a clearance holder has been caught in a lie or omission years down the line – for instance, during a polygraph or a promotion-related review – and seen their career come to a screeching halt. Lying or concealing information on the SF-86 isn’t just a bad idea; it’s a felony (18 U.S.C. § 1001) that can carry up to 5 years in prison if proven. Even if it doesn’t reach that extreme, omissions are perceived the same as lying by investigators. The takeaway: always tell the truth on the SF-86 – but do so thoughtfully. Unless you have a truly flawless background (very few people do), it’s wise to get guidance from a qualified security clearance attorney before you hit “submit.” An experienced lawyer can help ensure that your SF-86 tells your whole truth in the best possible way for your clearance prospects.

Initial Applications vs. Reinvestigations: Consistency is Key

It’s not only first-time applicants who need to worry about the SF-86. If you’re up for a periodic reinvestigation (now often continuous evaluation, but reinvestigations for upgrades or certain intervals still occur), you’ll likely be updating an SF-86 or similar form again. When you do, one of the most important things to remember is consistency with your previous submissions. As noted, agencies will compare your new SF-86 with any past SF-86 you’ve submitted. An inconsistency – something you list now that you didn’t before, or a discrepancy in dates or details – is a major red flag in itself. The investigators will ask, “Why did this information change? Was it an oversight, or were you dishonest the first time?”

For example, if five years ago you didn’t mention a foreign contact or a 10-year-old arrest on your initial clearance application, and now you do disclose it, that will prompt tough questions. It’s far better to proactively address that (“I realized I mistakenly left this out of my initial application”) before an investigator has to pry it out. Similarly, if something does legitimately change – say you’ve since developed a foreign connection or had a new legal issue – you must be fully forthcoming about it now. Never assume that just because you “got through” the first clearance with an omission, you can repeat the lie. In reality, the opposite is true: if you keep omitting it, you’re compounding the dishonesty, and if you disclose it now, you’re admitting you lied before. This is a tricky spot, and a prime reason to involve an attorney if you find yourself in it. A skilled clearance lawyer can advise on how to handle a past omission in a reinvestigation. In some cases, it may be better to voluntarily disclose an earlier mistake and demonstrate that you corrected it on your own – showing integrity – rather than hoping it never comes up. Remember, the SF-86 process is about your integrity over time. Creating a consistent, honest paper trail from the start of your career is far easier than trying to patch holes later. If you have any doubt about what you put on a previous form, obtain a copy of it and review it before filling out a new one, so you can be consistent and address any past issues head on.

Common SF-86 Sections with Red Flags (and How to Avoid Them)

Below we break down various sections of the SF-86 that often trip up applicants. For each, we highlight what investigators look for and why careful, truthful framing of your answers is crucial.

Foreign Contacts and Foreign Influence

Red Flags: Close and continuing contact with foreign nationals is a significant focus of the SF-86. Investigators are looking for any ties that might make you vulnerable to foreign influence. Obvious red flags include an immediate family member who is a citizen of (or lives in) a country hostile to the U.S., or frequent interactions with foreign government officials or military personnel. Unreported foreign relationships, business interests abroad, or extensive foreign travel can also raise suspicions, as they suggest potential avenues through which a foreign entity could exert pressure or leverage. The adjudicative guideline for Foreign Influence specifically looks at whether your foreign contacts or interests could affect your loyalty to the U.S. or make you susceptible to coercion.. In plain terms, they want to be sure you won’t be blackmailed or tempted into betraying U.S. secrets because of a cousin in another country or money you have overseas. It’s worth noting that simply having foreign contacts is not a problem in itself (globalized society and all); it becomes a problem if it’s not disclosed or if it’s so extensive that it calls your allegiances into question.

One of the most common mistakes applicants make is failing to report a foreign contact or connection because they think it’s insignificant. For example, not mentioning your college roommate who was a foreign exchange student, or a friend you made while studying abroad, might seem minor – but if that relationship meets the criteria asked about (e.g. close and/or continuing contact), leaving it off the form is a mistake. Clearance investigators have noted that “not reporting foreign contacts or activities” is a frequent SF-86 error. Even a casual overseas friendship can be relevant. The rule of thumb is: If in doubt, disclose. Undisclosed foreign contacts that surface later (say, via social media or a polygraph) can look like you tried to hide them.

Why Legal Framing Is Important: When you do disclose foreign contacts or interests, how you describe them is crucial. You want to be truthful and transparent, but also reassure adjudicators that these contacts don’t pose a security risk. This is where an attorney’s guidance is invaluable. For instance, if you have family in another country, simply listing their names might not tell the whole story. Are you in touch with them regularly, or is it a distant relation you hardly know? Do they work for a foreign government or just run a small business? These details matter. An attorney can help you provide necessary context in the comments/explanation section. You might note, for example, that your cousin works as a teacher (not in any government or military capacity) and that you exchange birthday greetings once a year. Such context can mitigate the foreign influence concern by showing the contact is benign and low-risk. On the other hand, if you have a foreign contact that could raise concerns (say, a friend who is now an officer in a foreign military), it’s even more important to address it head-on. You’d want to emphasize your longstanding loyalty to the U.S., perhaps how you came to know this person, and that you’ve reported the friendship to the appropriate authorities if required by your job. In tricky cases, a lawyer might advise a separate explanatory statement to attach to the SF-86, formally addressing any foreign influence issues. The goal is to satisfy the adjudicators that, yes, you have foreign ties, but those ties won’t make you a security risk. Lawyers experienced in clearance matters can often anticipate follow-up questions that investigators might ask about a foreign contact and help you preemptively answer them in your form. The result is a cleaner investigation with fewer surprises – and a much lower chance of a clearance denial due to foreign influence fears.

Financial History and Debt Issues

Red Flags: Financial problems are one of the top reasons security clearances get denied or revoked. Why? The government worries that someone in dire financial straits might be tempted to sell secrets or accept bribes to get out of a hole. As the adjudicative guideline for Financial Considerations notes, “an individual who is financially overextended is at risk of having to engage in illegal acts to generate funds” and significant unpaid debts or inability to live within one’s means could indicate poor judgment or increase susceptibility to bribery or coercion. Therefore, red flags in this category include: a history of not paying bills on time, large amounts of debt in collections, recent bankruptcies, foreclosures, unpaid taxes, or anything suggesting fiscal irresponsibility. Unexplained affluence (suddenly coming into a lot of money without a clear source) is also a red flag, since it could imply under-the-table income or criminal activity. Essentially, investigators are looking at how you handle your money as a proxy for your reliability and potential motivations.

The SF-86 will directly ask about your financial record (Section 26 on the form). This includes requiring you to report if, in the past seven years, you’ve had debts turned over to collection agencies, debts over a certain amount that were delinquent, any repossessions, wage garnishments, tax liens, evictions, unpaid judgments, or bankruptcies. A very common mistake is for applicants to “underreport” or omit these financial issues out of embarrassment or the hope that since they’re personal matters, they won’t be discovered. Do not make that mistake. The investigative process will include credit checks and public record checks. If you have a bankruptcy or lien, they will find it. Failing to list it on the SF-86 just turns a manageable issue (debt) into a much bigger one (lack of candor). Another mistake is thinking an issue is too old to matter – even if beyond the stated timeframe, significant financial problems can still come up, and the form often has you list ever having declared bankruptcy, for instance. So be thorough.

Why Legal Framing Is Important: Simply put, context is king. Large debts or a past bankruptcy on your record isn’t automatically disqualifying – many people run into financial trouble due to circumstances beyond their control. Adjudicators will look at “the whole person,” including what led to the financial issue and what you’ve done about it. This is where framing and documentation help. If you just list the bare fact – e.g., “Bankruptcy, 2019” – and say nothing more, you leave the worst to the imagination. But if you explain briefly but clearly, it changes the narrative: “Filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2019 due to job loss and medical bills; all debts were discharged and I have maintained good credit since (documentation attached).” Now you’ve shown cause and resolution. In fact, the adjudicative guidelines explicitly consider conditions that mitigate financial concerns, such as the behavior being isolated, caused by factors outside your control (job loss, medical emergency, etc.), and evidence that you acted in good faith to resolve debts. An attorney can help you highlight those mitigating factors. They might suggest you gather proof, such as a letter from a credit counseling program, proof of payment plans, or simply crafting a succinct statement for the “additional comments” section explaining that a debt is under control.

Another area where guidance is useful is if you have multiple small issues versus one big issue. A lawyer can help you present a pattern of improvement. For example: “Between 2018-2020, I had several accounts go into collections (totaling $X) due to a period of unemployment. Since regaining steady employment, I have paid these off as of 2021 and have no remaining delinquent debt.” This tells a story of responsibility, not negligence. If there are any unresolved debts, an attorney will likely advise you to start resolving them before you submit the SF-86 (if possible), or at least demonstrate that you’re in a repayment plan. This proactive approach can not only look better to adjudicators, it can sometimes prevent a clearance denial altogether. Remember, financial issues are often fixable, but dishonesty about them is not. So disclose everything required, and let the truth be accompanied by an explanation that shows you’re a trustworthy person who had a solvable problem – not an irresponsible person who ignores problems. With the right framing, even serious financial troubles (when honestly reported) can be mitigated to satisfy the clearance requirements.

Criminal History and Legal Issues

Red Flags: When it comes to your police record or criminal history, the government’s concern is obvious: past behavior can indicate future reliability. Any criminal behavior, especially patterns of it, strongly indicates an disregard for the law and poor judgment, which are incompatible with holding a clearance. That said, not all legal issues are showstoppers – context (again) matters. The SF-86 will ask if you have ever been charged with or convicted of any felony, and in the past seven years, any misdemeanor, as well as any arrests (even if not charged) for numerous categories of offenses. This includes things like domestic violence, alcohol or drug-related incidents, firearms violations, etc. It also asks about court martial or military discipline if you’re military. Red flags in this realm include: recent serious offenses (DUI, assault, theft, etc.), multiple repeat offenses (a pattern of smaller charges that show a trend), offenses that involve dishonesty (fraud, perjury), and of course any felony conviction. Notably, even charges that were dismissed or expunged can be relevant – often the SF-86 will instruct you to disclose them (with certain exceptions for expunged juvenile records in some cases). The investigators will likely see arrest records even if you weren’t convicted, so it’s usually required that you list them. A very common SF-86 mistake is not fully listing all past legal issues. People often rationalize, “Well, that charge was dropped, so I don’t need to mention it,” or “That was expunged, no one will find out.” Those assumptions can sink your clearance. If the form asks, you must answer. If you’re unsure whether something counts (e.g., a minor citation), better to disclose it or seek clarification, rather than omit it.

Why Legal Framing Is Important: Clearly, honesty about your criminal history is non-negotiable. Lying about it is often considered more egregious than the offense itself. But once honesty is on the table, framing and context determine how adjudicators will judge that information. This is where a lawyer’s touch can make a significant difference. The key is to own up to any mistakes while also putting them in perspective. Let’s say you have a 2015 misdemeanor for trespassing because of a youthful prank. Simply listing “Misdemeanor trespassing, 2015” meets the basic requirement, but it doesn’t tell the reviewer anything. It might even invite assumption of something worse than reality. Instead, you might add: “Trespassing (misdemeanor) – at age 19, friends and I entered a closed construction site as a prank. We were arrested, but charges were later dropped after community service. Lesson learned; no law violations since.” Now the adjudicator reading this sees the full story: youthful indiscretion, minor issue, you took responsibility, and it hasn’t recurred. That’s a mitigated concern.

For more serious matters (say a DUI or a domestic dispute arrest), you’ll want to demonstrate what you’ve done since the incident to ensure it doesn’t happen again. Completion of programs, lifestyle changes, or simply the passage of time without further incidents are all mitigating. The adjudicative guidelines for Criminal Conduct consider factors like how recent it was, the frequency, and circumstances. Showing it was isolated and is firmly in the past will help. An attorney can help you phrase your descriptions to hit those mitigating notes. They might say, “emphasize that it’s been 10 years and you’ve had a clean record since,” or suggest noting that you voluntarily sought anger management counseling (if, for example, you had an assault charge in a bar fight years ago).

Another important aspect is providing documentation or evidence of resolution. If a charge was dropped or expunged, mention that (truthfully) and consider having the paperwork handy in case investigators ask. If you completed probation successfully, say so. By showing the issue is resolved and you’ve been forthright, you transform a red flag into a point that can be overcome. Conversely, if you don’t properly frame it – say you just list “Assault charge, 2018” without explanation – an adjudicator is left wondering if you have unresolved anger issues or if the story was worse. They will certainly dig deeper in the investigation, possibly even requiring you to provide more statements or appear for an in-person interview to explain. It’s far better to preempt that with a clear, written explanation.

One more note: **If you have a criminal record that intersects with other categories (for example, a drug possession charge – that’s both criminal and drug involvement), be sure to disclose it in all relevant sections. You might list the charge in the police record section and also discuss the underlying behavior in the drug use section. A lawyer can help ensure you’re consistent across the form so it doesn’t appear you’re hiding anything. Inconsistency can look like dishonesty. For instance, don’t say “no” to drug use and then later list a drug possession charge – that would obviously conflict. Instead, say “yes” to drug use and explain it alongside acknowledging the charge.

In summary, tell the whole story, not just the bad headline. Everyone makes mistakes; what the clearance process wants to see is that you learned from yours and that you’re trustworthy despite them. With careful framing, even a criminal hiccup in your past can be addressed in a way that satisfies the investigators that it’s not reflective of your current character or reliability.

Illegal Drug Use and Substance Misuse

Red Flags: Drug use is a hot-button issue for security clearances. The federal government still considers any use of illegal drugs a potential security concern, even if it’s becoming socially or locally acceptable (e.g., marijuana in a state where it’s legal – it’s still illegal federally and for clearance purposes). The SF-86 will ask about your involvement with illegal drugs and controlled substances, including use, purchase, sale, or manufacture, and usually covers a specified time frame (often the last 7 years, but some clearances ask “Have you EVER…” for certain levels). Key red flags here include recent drug use, frequent or habitual use at any time, any history of drug manufacturing or distribution (selling, dealing), and misuse of prescription drugs (using someone else’s prescription, abusing your own, etc.). According to the adjudicative guideline for Drug Involvement, improper or illegal involvement with drugs raises questions about a person’s ability or willingness to protect classified information. Drug abuse can impair judgment – someone regularly using drugs might make poor decisions or be vulnerable to coercion (e.g., an enemy could threaten to expose their drug use unless they cooperate). One especially problematic scenario is if someone continues to use drugs after getting a clearance – that’s usually a fast-track to clearance revocation. But even for an initial applicant, any drug use that was not honestly disclosed is a major issue. It’s worth repeating: do not lie about or omit drug use on your SF-86. Many applicants are tempted to hide past experimentation, thinking “oh, it was just once, and pot is legal in my state, I’ll just say ‘no’ to be safe.” That’s a terrible idea. First, investigators may employ tools like a polygraph (especially for higher clearances) where drug use often comes to light. Second, even a modest amount of drug use is usually more forgivable than dishonesty about drug use. As one security clearance attorney bluntly put it, omitting past drug use is viewed the same as lying – and the truth will often come out. So, the red flag isn’t having tried a joint in college; the real red flag is saying you didn’t when you actually did.

Why Legal Framing Is Important: After you’ve committed to being truthful about any drug use, the next step is to frame that disclosure properly to mitigate concerns. Adjudicators are looking at frequency, recency, and likelihood of recurrence. An ideal scenario (from a clearance perspective) is experimental use long in the past, with clear indications it won’t happen again. For example: “Used marijuana twice at parties in 2016; have not used any illegal drugs since and have no intention to ever use again.” That kind of statement, if true, addresses the concern head-on: it was limited, it’s over, it won’t be a problem going forward. Compare that to a vague “used marijuana occasionally in college” with no further info – that leaves questions: How occasional? When did you stop? Do you still?

A lawyer can help you nail down the specifics in a way that answers those questions before they’re even asked. They might encourage you to be explicit about the last date of use (“last used June 2016”) and to use definitive language about no future use (“no further involvement with illegal drugs since that time”). This aligns with the mitigating factors listed in the Drug Involvement guidelines, such as the behavior not being recent, being an isolated incident, and a demonstrated intent not to use again. If your situation is less clear-cut – say you used more than “just a couple times” – an attorney can still help focus on mitigation. For instance, maybe you used marijuana regularly during a period of your life but stopped three years ago; the emphasis should be on the fact you stopped and what prompted you to stop (realizing the career impact, personal choice, etc.). You might also include if you took any steps like disposing of paraphernalia, avoiding old crowds – whatever shows you’re serious that it’s in the past.

In cases of harder drugs or longer histories, framing is even more crucial. If someone had an addiction but went through rehab and got clean, that should absolutely be mentioned: success in rehabilitation is a strong mitigating factor. Providing documentation (like a completion certificate or a letter from a sponsor) could also be advisable, which a lawyer would likely help you incorporate or have ready. On the SF-86, you might say: “Cocaine use: 2018-2019 (addiction). Voluntarily entered treatment in 2019; successfully completed program. Remained drug-free since (over 5 years). Willing to provide supporting documentation.” Such an entry is honest and also directly addresses the government’s fears (ongoing use, future risk) by showing recovery and time clean.

Also, be mindful to cover all bases in the form. The SF-86 might ask separate questions: one about use, another about purchase/sale. Don’t say “no” to selling just because you only “shared” some with a friend – if you gave someone else drugs and money changed hands, that counts. These nuances can be tricky, and again, a security clearance attorney can guide you on interpreting the questions correctly so you answer what’s actually being asked. It’s about being truthful without volunteering unasked information that might confuse matters. For example, the form might not ask about drug use beyond seven years, so you don’t need to write an essay about something 15 years ago – unless there’s a follow-up question or you’re asked in person, in which case you must answer directly.

In summary, disclose your drug history fully, then put it in the most reassuring light possible. Emphasize time elapsed since use, lack of dependence, and firm commitment to abstain in the future. By doing so, you address the core concern: that your past drug involvement does not indicate any current unreliability or future risk to national security. Many people with minor drug experimentation do get cleared – but those caught lying about it almost always do not. So don’t let a youthful mistake turn into a career-killer by mishandling it on the form. If you present it correctly and honestly, you stand a much better chance of clearing the hurdle.

Alcohol Use and Related Conduct

Red Flags: Unlike illegal drugs, alcohol is a legal substance and moderate use is not a problem for a clearance by itself. However, excessive alcohol consumption can absolutely raise red flags in the context of national security. The concern, as outlined in Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption), is that excessive drinking can lead to “questionable judgment, unreliability, and failure to control impulses” which in turn increases the risk of security violations or unacceptable behavior. In practical terms, red flags in this category include: alcohol-related incidents such as DUIs/DWIs, public intoxication arrests, alcohol-fueled assaults or domestic disturbances, or any pattern of binge drinking that results in occupational or legal consequences. If you’ve ever been ordered to counseling or treatment for alcohol, or had performance issues at work due to drinking (like coming in hungover or intoxicated), those are significant concerns. Even if not expressly asked on the SF-86 (older versions asked if you’ve ever been ordered to treatment or had issues; newer processes might catch it in medical or employment records), it can come up during the investigation. Essentially, the government isn’t judging social drinking – they’re looking for signs of alcohol abuse or dependence that could impair your reliability. Multiple DUIs or a recent DUI is a glaring red flag; it suggests a pattern or current problem. A single DUI from a decade ago, while still an issue to address, is less severe if all indications are that it was an outlier and you’ve been responsible since.

On the SF-86, you might encounter a direct question such as, “In the last seven years, has your use of alcohol had a negative impact on your work performance or resulted in any legal action (such as an arrest)?” If you have a DUI or other alcohol-related offense in that timeframe, you must say yes and provide the details. A common pitfall is trying to downplay it – for instance, answering “no” because you think technically you weren’t drunk at work when you got the DUI. Don’t split hairs; if the honest answer is yes, check yes. Investigators will see the arrest record. Not reporting an alcohol-related incident when asked is viewed as dishonesty. Another area is treatment: if you saw a counselor or went to rehab for alcohol, you should disclose it if the form asks (usually it will, within a certain time window). Some people fear that admitting to rehab guarantees a denial – it doesn’t, especially if you can show it worked. But failing to mention it when asked is a serious issue.

Why Legal Framing Is Important: As with other areas, context and demonstration of responsibility are your friends. If you have any alcohol-related skeletons, your SF-86 is the place to own them and show you’ve addressed them. Let’s say you had one DUI in 2020. Your SF-86 entry for police record will list it. You should include a brief comment along the lines of: “Charge: DUI (2020). Outcome: misdemeanor conviction. Completed all court requirements (fines, license suspension, alcohol education program) by 2021. No repeat incidents.” This tells the story: you made a mistake, you faced the music, and it’s not ongoing. Adjudicators will consider factors like whether it was a one-off or part of a pattern. By explicitly stating “no repeat incidents,” you signal that it was isolated. If, on the other hand, you’ve had two or three alcohol incidents, you definitely want to show what you’ve done to break the pattern (e.g., “DUI in 2018 and public intoxication in 2019 – since then sought counseling and drastically reduced alcohol consumption; no incidents in last 5+ years”).

If you have or had a genuine alcohol problem, it’s better to be truthful and show you’re managing it, than to pretend it never existed. The SF-86 process is not trying to punish you for seeking help; in fact, showing that you recognized a problem and got help can be seen positively. For example, if you self-enrolled in an outpatient program or started attending AA meetings, that’s worth mentioning as part of your explanation. It demonstrates responsibility and self-awareness, which are good traits in the eyes of clearance adjudicators. The guideline allows mitigation if there’s clear evidence of rehabilitation and changed behavior (e.g., abstinence or responsible use for a significant period).

An attorney can help you frame these disclosures without over-sharing. There’s a balance in how much to say – you need enough detail to cover the concern, but you don’t necessarily need to write a memoir about your struggles. A lawyer might help you phrase it like, “acknowledged issue, took action, resolved now.” They will also ensure you answer the specific question asked. If the question is only about the last seven years and your DUI was nine years ago, you might not need to list it under that question (depending on form version), but it could still come up in other contexts. A clearance attorney would likely advise: even if not required on the form, be prepared to discuss it if asked later. It’s all about no surprises.

One more point: Alcohol and other issues overlap. If your finances tanked due to alcohol (e.g., you lost a job from drinking), it might show up in both sections. Be consistent in your narrative: don’t blame different causes in different sections if they’re related. Own it across the board.

In summary, if you drink, do so responsibly – and if you’ve ever had an incident where you didn’t, be ready to fess up and show that you’ve learned from it. The investigators want to ensure that your current judgment is sound and that any past lapse due to alcohol won’t recur and compromise security. With honest disclosure and evidence of responsible behavior since, even an alcohol-related mistake can be mitigated in the clearance process.

Mental Health Disclosures

Red Flags: Mental health is a unique category in the security clearance world. The government has long walked a fine line: it doesn’t want to stigmatize seeking help (because untreated issues could be worse), but it also needs to evaluate if certain mental health conditions might affect one’s trustworthiness or reliability. The SF-86 will have questions about mental health, but these have evolved in recent years to be more targeted. As of the latest guidance, you are typically asked if in the last X years you have had a mental health condition that substantially adversely affected your judgment, stability, or reliability, or if you were ever court-ordered to seek psychiatric treatment. They often do NOT ask about counseling for things like stress, grief, marital issues, etc., or routine therapy – those were specifically exempted in reforms to encourage people to get help without fearing automatic clearance denial. So, what are the red flags here? It’s not having seen a therapist for the occasional depression or anxiety – that alone is not disqualifying. Instead, red flags would be serious conditions that could impair your ability to function or make sound decisions. For example: a history of psychotic episodes, uncontrolled bipolar disorder with recent manic incidents, serious suicide attempts (because of concern for stability), or any condition that has resulted in violence or lack of self-control. Also, failure to follow treatment for a known condition is a red flag. The guidelines for Psychological Conditions note that disorders can be a concern if they indicate a defect in judgment or reliability, and they specifically worry if someone isn’t following their prescribed treatment plan(e.g., someone who stops taking medication against medical advice, which might lead to a relapse or symptoms that could affect their work). Another red flag would be if a person has been declared mentally incompetent by a court at any point, or hospitalized for serious conditions in the last few years. Essentially, investigators want to ensure that your mental and emotional state won’t compromise security – either by you becoming unstable or by you becoming a target for exploitation (in extreme cases, adversaries might try to exploit someone’s mental vulnerabilities).

Why Legal Framing Is Important: Mental health disclosures can be sensitive and personal, but it’s crucial to handle them correctly on the SF-86. First, always answer the mental health questions honestly. If the form asks (for example) “In the last 7 years, have you had any mental health condition that substantially impacted your behavior or judgments, or have you been hospitalized for a mental health condition?” – think carefully and answer truthfully. If the answer is “yes,” it does not mean you will be denied; it means they’ll ask follow-ups, and you’ll likely need to provide some additional information (possibly even a form for your mental health practitioner to fill out). Many people are nervous that admitting to seeing a psychologist will ruin their chances, but the current policy is nuanced. Simply seeking therapy for general life issues is not a clearance disqualifier and usually doesn’t even need to be reported if it doesn’t fit the narrow criteria of the question.

If you do need to disclose something, how you frame it can significantly influence how it’s perceived. For example, suppose you experienced severe depression 5 years ago and voluntarily checked yourself into an inpatient program for two weeks, then did follow-up therapy for a year. On the SF-86, you’d say “Yes” to the relevant question and then provide the explanation. A strong way to frame it would be: “In 2019, I underwent treatment for depression (voluntarily admitted for inpatient treatment from June 1–14, 2019). I followed all treatment recommendations, including weekly therapy and appropriate medication, and my condition has been stable for years. My treating physician can attest that I am compliant with treatment and that the condition does not affect my daily functioning or judgment.” This tells the adjudicator: you took it seriously, you got better, and you’re stable. The mitigating factors they look for include things like: it’s an old issue, it’s been resolved or well-managed, and current evaluations indicate no problem. Providing a recent letter from your psychiatrist or psychologist (if possible) stating that you’re doing well and pose no security concern can powerfully mitigate the issue – attorneys often assist clients in obtaining and submitting such letters proactively.

If your situation is ongoing (say you currently have a condition like PTSD but it’s well-managed with therapy), then frame it as such: it’s being responsibly managed. You might note, “I have regular counseling which has greatly improved my coping skills. My therapist has no concerns about my reliability.” If asked to sign a release for the investigator to talk to your therapist (this can happen), you should discuss with your attorney, but generally it’s best to comply to show transparency. An attorney can also prepare you for that conversation and ensure any documentation uses language that the clearance adjudicators find reassuring (focusing on stability, compliance with treatment, good prognosis, etc.).

One thing to avoid is unnecessary detail that isn’t asked for. You don’t need to write a lengthy saga of your mental health journey – stick to what the question asks: conditions that impact your judgment or require certain disclosures. If you have a diagnosis but it’s minor and has no impact on work (like mild anxiety managed by occasional counseling), and the form doesn’t specifically ask for it, you don’t need to list it. If you’re unsure whether to include something, that’s a perfect scenario to consult a clearance attorney. They can interpret the SF-86 question in light of current policy and advise if your particular situation needs mentioning or not. They want you to be truthful and smart about what you do or don’t volunteer.

Lastly, the stigma is less now in the clearance process – agencies openly acknowledge that seeking mental health treatment is a positive step and not something that will automatically count against you. The Defense Department even ran campaigns telling people “It’s okay to answer yes to Question 21” (the mental health question) and that doing so won’t necessarily hurt your career. The key is transparency and demonstrating that you are stable now. By framing your answer to highlight stability, compliance with any treatment, and good outcomes, you address the security concern. You’re showing that your mental health status will not impair your judgment, reliability, or trustworthiness going forward. In many cases, that’s enough to satisfy the adjudicators, and the clearance moves on. Just remember: do not conceal serious issues – that can be far worse if discovered. Instead, confront them with facts and supporting evidence. With legal help, you can do so in a manner that protects both your privacy and your clearance eligibility.

Online Behavior and Social Media

Red Flags: In today’s digital era, what you do and say online can have real-world consequences for your security clearance. Social media and online activity have become part of the background check process, especially under continuous evaluation programs. While the SF-86 form itself might not ask, “What’s your Twitter handle and have you posted anything bad?”, you should assume that any public posts or profiles could be reviewed by investigators. In fact, Security Executive Agent Directive (SEAD) 5 provides guidelines for agencies to collect and use publicly available social media information in clearance investigations. So, what are red flags in this context? Think about anything online that would fall under the traditional adjudicative guidelines if it were “offline” behavior. For example: expressing extremist views or allegiance to hostile entities (this could raise Allegiance or Foreign Influence concerns), posting about drug use or criminal activity (self-admission of behavior that contradicts what you put on the form), reckless behavior that might suggest poor judgment, or even patterns of dishonesty or rule-breaking (maybe you brag online about cheating some system). A notable red flag is if you have online aliases that you didn’t disclose but that are clearly you, engaged in dubious activities. Investigators are not spying on your private messages, but if your accounts are public or accessible, they can certainly take a look. And co-workers or friends might report concerning online behavior as well. In one reported case, a clearance was denied based on social media posts that suggested the person might not protect classified info (details weren’t public, but it shows it can happen). To put it bluntly: Comments made publicly can be used against you in the security clearance process. Clear examples include making threats, harassing others, or revealing sensitive information online. Additionally, online associations matter: if you’re active in forums or groups that advocate anti-government or criminal activities, that could be a huge red flag (tying into Personal Conduct or Allegiance issues). Also, inconsistency between your SF-86 and your online life is a red flag. If you claim no drug use but your Instagram shows you smoking marijuana last year, expect trouble.

Why Legal Framing Is Important: While you don’t “fill out” your social media on the SF-86, you should approach your online presence with the same honesty and consistency that you apply to the form. Here are a few tips for clearance seekers and holders:

Audit your online footprint: Before you submit your SF-86 (and frankly as a regular habit), review your social media posts. Delete or make private anything that could be misconstrued or that you’re not proud of. This isn’t to “hide evidence” of disqualifying conduct – you should still disclose any real issues on the SF-86 regardless of whether evidence exists online. Rather, it’s to prevent misunderstandings or frivolous issues. Maybe you made an off-color joke or a heated political rant years ago; consider cleaning that up or at least locking down your privacy settings. As one government executive article advised, keeping accounts private and being mindful of public comments is just common sense for clearance holders.
Ensure alignment between your SF-86 and your online info: If you said “no” to illegal drug use on the form, don’t have pictures or tweets that suggest otherwise. If you have foreign contacts you interact with openly on social media, make sure they’re accounted for in your disclosures if required. Investigators have sophisticated tools and also can receive tips – discrepancies will be noticed.
Be cautious about expressing extremist opinions or revealing too much: Your right to free speech is protected, but if you’re posting things that raise questions about your loyalty or judgment, it can create clearance headaches. For instance, railing about overthrowing the U.S. government, or posting that you hate America while seeking a U.S. clearance, is obviously problematic. Similarly, complaining about your job in a way that suggests you might leak info, or actually leaking tidbits (“I just worked on a super secret project today…”) on LinkedIn or elsewhere is a big no-no.

When filling out the SF-86, if there is a section that asks about associations or membership in organizations, that could indirectly include online groups. For example, if you are a member of an online community that is actually an organized group (say an online chapter of a real-world organization), and it’s one that falls under an area of concern (like an extremist group), you should list it and explain. An attorney can help determine if an online association counts as “membership in an organization” that needs to be reported. The lines can be blurry (is a Facebook group an “organization”? usually not officially, but what if it’s something like being part of a known hacktivist collective?).

If you find that your online past is messy – perhaps you posted some immature things or stuff that could be seen as violent or drug-related – be prepared to address it. You might not proactively write about it on the SF-86 (unless it directly ties to a question), but an investigator might ask you in an interview. That’s when framing matters: acknowledge the posts and clarify they were jokes or mistakes of youth, and that they don’t reflect your true character or current lifestyle. Having an attorney prep you for such an interview can be invaluable; they can run through likely questions about your online activity so you can practice answering calmly and consistently.

In essence, think of your social media persona as part of your whole-person evaluation. Present yourself online in a manner consistent with the trustworthy, stable person you want to show to the clearance adjudicators. Privacy settings are your friend, as is just good judgment in what you post. And if something is out there that could be a red flag, don’t wait for an investigator to bring it up – discuss with your lawyer whether it’s something you should somehow clarify or disclose. The goal is that your online behavior doesn’t undermine or contradict anything in your SF-86 or background. If you manage that, you’ve effectively neutralized what could become a stumbling block.

Personal Associations and Organizations

Red Flags: This category is a bit of a catch-all, but it boils down to who you associate with and what groups you are part of by choice. The U.S. government is not in the business of guilt by association per se, but if you are closely tied to people or organizations that pose a security concern, that will reflect on you. The SF-86 asks about membership in organizations that might be relevant to national security. For instance, one question typically asks if you’ve ever been a member of an organization that advocates the commission of force or violence to deny others their rights, or that advocates overthrowing the U.S. government. That is aimed at uncovering things like gang membership, involvement in extremist militias, terrorist organizations, etc. Obviously, if someone answers “yes” to having been part of such a group, it’s a huge red flag. It doesn’t automatically disqualify (perhaps you were young and got away from it), but expect intense scrutiny. Similarly, if you are known to socialize closely with individuals who are involved in criminal activity or who work for foreign intelligence, that’s a red flag. An example: having a best friend who was convicted of espionage – you can bet that’ll come up. Or if you’re part of an online forum that engages in hacking government systems (even if you personally didn’t), that association is concerning.

Even more benign associations can raise questions if not properly framed. For example, being a member of a foreign cultural organization – usually fine, but if that organization has ties to a foreign government, investigators might probe whether it could be a conduit for foreign influence. Unreported outside activities (like an undisclosed side job with a foreign company, or volunteering for a group that has political objectives) can also become issues if they clash with security interests. Another scenario: associations with individuals known to be involved in radical or anti-American activities (maybe you had a roommate who later became involved with a hate group). The investigators are looking to see if any of your associations cast doubt on your allegiance, judgment, or loyalty.

Why Legal Framing Is Important: If you have a potentially problematic association, full disclosure with context is your best strategy. Let’s break down two sub-areas: organizations, and individuals.

For organizations: Suppose in college you briefly joined a group that, unknown to you at first, had some extremist ideologies. Once you realized, you quit. On the SF-86, if asked about organizations advocating violence or overthrow of the government, you should say “Yes, briefly in 20XX, I was a member of XYZ group.” Then explain: “I joined out of curiosity/for social reasons, but when I became aware of their extremist views, I immediately dissociated myself (after 2 months of involvement). I do not subscribe to their beliefs or goals.” This frames you as someone who made a mistake but decisively corrected it. It’s important to denounce the problematic aspects of the group in your explanation to make clear you’re not secretly sympathizing with them. If you simply list the name without explanation, an adjudicator will be very concerned. A lawyer can help you craft the wording to ensure it’s crystal clear that you have no ongoing allegiance to that group and perhaps to highlight any positive steps (maybe you assisted law enforcement afterwards, etc., if applicable).

For individuals: Let’s say you have a relative or friend who is involved in something shady (organized crime, or perhaps is a member of a foreign intelligence service). You can’t choose your relatives, but you do need to be upfront about the connection if asked (the SF-86 asks about relatives’ employment, including if any work for foreign governments). If a friend falls into this category, it might come up during the investigation indirectly. The best approach is to acknowledge the association but distance yourself from any problematic behavior. For example: “My cousin, [Name], is an employee of the [Foreign] government. We are not particularly close and our contact is limited to family gatherings; we do not discuss my work, and I have reported this contact to my security officer as required.” This way, you’ve laid it out: yes the connection exists, but I handle it responsibly. Or if it’s an old friend who went down a bad path, you might say: “I was friends with [Name] in high school, but we have not been in close contact for years. I became aware that he was involved in illegal activity, and since then I have kept my distance aside from occasional polite hellos. I have no involvement in or knowledge of his activities.” This shows you’re not complicit and you exercise good judgment about with whom you maintain relationships.

Another angle: membership in benign organizations that could be misconstrued. Suppose you’re a member of an international charity that does work in a country of concern. You should list it if asked about organizational memberships (usually SF-86 asks about organizations outside of work). Frame it as what it is: “Member of ABC Charity, which provides disaster relief in XYZ country.” Don’t assume the investigator knows it’s benign; a short explanation helps.

Sometimes, hobbies and activities might fall under associations. If you’re an avid gun collector in a militia-style club (even if not anti-government), you might mention it if relevant and frame it: “Member of [Sportsman’s Club], a recreational shooting and hunting club. This is a sporting organization and has no political activities.” That preempts any worry that it’s some kind of insurgent group. Essentially, think of any group you’re part of or people you hang with that could even remotely look bad – then clarify the benign nature or your non-involvement in any bad aspect.

Clearance attorneys often have insight into what kinds of associations are viewed warily by agencies. For example, certain motorcycle clubs or fraternal organizations might have reputations (fair or not). If you’re part of something that an investigator might flag out of ignorance, your lawyer might advise including an explanation to remove doubt.

In all cases, the golden rule is: if it’s asked, disclose it – and if it’s potentially concerning, explain it. By doing so, you demonstrate that you understand the importance of loyalty and good character. You’re showing the adjudicators that you’re not hiding anything and that you have no allegiance conflicts or undue influences via your associations. In fact, going one step further, if you disaffiliated with a problematic group or person, mention that – it shows proactive commitment to staying on the right side of security and ethics.

Inconsistencies, Omissions, and “Honesty Traps”

Red Flags: We’ve touched on this throughout, but it’s worth emphasizing on its own: nothing will sink a clearance faster than being caught in a lie or omission. The SF-86, at its core, is testing your honesty and completeness. Any inconsistency – either within your form, or between your form and the investigation results – is a red flag. This includes big things like not disclosing a known issue, down to small things like a date discrepancy that suggests carelessness or evasiveness. Investigators are trained to notice conflicting information. For instance, if your employment history has a gap that you didn’t account for, they’ll wonder what you were doing. Or if your references paint a different picture than what you presented, that’s an issue. The SF-86 even warns in its instructions: withholding or falsifying information is not just a potential clearance denial, but can be referred for criminal prosecution. As mentioned earlier, Title 18, Section 1001 of the U.S. Code makes it a felony to lie on this government form. So the stakes are high. A pattern we see is folks trying to omit something “small” – like recreational drug use, a foreign contact, or a shoplifting incident – thinking it won’t be discovered. But then, during a polygraph or a follow-up interview, their nerves get the better of them or evidence emerges, and the truth comes out. At that point, the issue isn’t the drug or the contact or the incident – it’s the lack of candor. Clearances have been denied under Guideline E: Personal Conduct for exactly this reason: the person falsified their SF-86. And that reason is very hard to fight, because trustworthiness is the whole game.

Omissions, as said, are treated the same as an outright lie. Some people think, “If they don’t ask, I won’t tell.” But the SF-86 asks a lot. If something legitimately isn’t asked, you don’t have to volunteer it (e.g., a very old incident beyond the scope of any question – though if it’s relevant it might come up anyway). However, if it is asked and you say “No” when the true answer is “Yes,” you are falsifying by omission. Also, be cautious with “mistakes” – if you truly forget something or mis-enter data, it can still cause problems. Always review your form carefully. It can be helpful to compare it with any previous SF-86 you filled out to ensure you’re not missing something you disclosed before. The investigators will likely do that – they will compare your current responses to previous ones. Inconsistencies between them will raise questions: Which time were you telling the truth? Neither answer might be trusted until resolved.

Why Legal Framing Is Important: The best way to handle honesty is straightforward: be truthful and complete from the start. But framing still plays a role in how you present truthful information. You want to avoid accidental inconsistencies or creating confusion. Here’s where an attorney’s guidance is very useful even if you have nothing “bad” to hide – they help ensure you’re not accidentally tripping yourself up with poor wording.

For example, the SF-86 has many open-ended sections where you can explain situations. If you’re not careful, you might write something that raises more questions. A lawyer will help you be precise. Let’s say you had a period of unemployment and you did some side gigs under the table. If you simply leave a gap in employment dates, investigators will wonder. If you list “self-employed” but don’t specify, they’ll also ask. It’s better to say “Jan 2020 – Aug 2020: Between jobs, did odd freelance work (e.g. Uber driver, handyman tasks) while seeking full-time employment.” That addresses the gap and doesn’t leave them guessing. Ambiguity can look like hiding something.

Another framing aspect is admitting mistakes upfront. If there is something you know might look bad – a minor omission you realize you made on a previous SF-86, for instance – consider addressing it in a cover letter or addendum when you submit the new SF-86. An attorney can help draft a short statement, like: “When I filled out my SF-86 five years ago, I inadvertently failed to list a 2008 arrest for shoplifting. I misunderstood the question’s timeframe at that time. I have included it in this application for completeness and am prepared to discuss it. I take full responsibility for the oversight.” This kind of proactive mea culpa can sometimes stave off a bigger issue. You’ve taken the wind out of the sails of an investigator accusing you of hiding it. Not everyone needs to do something like that, but if you and your lawyer identify a potential discrepancy (maybe you genuinely forgot something earlier), it can be a smart move.

Additionally, framing includes things like making sure to explain “yes” answers properly. If a question is a simple yes/no but you have a “yes,” almost always there’s an opportunity to give details. Don’t just check yes and move on – that would be incomplete. Provide the narrative or facts requested. Many SF-86 sections have follow-up boxes for explanation when you answer yes. Use them effectively. Write in clear, concise language, stick to facts, and avoid emotional or overly defensive tones. State what happened, when, and the outcome. If it’s resolved, say so. If you’re in doubt about how it sounds, that’s what counsel can help refine.

Finally, consistency across all parts of your form (and across time) is vital. Keep a personal copy of your SF-86 and any future updates. Treat it as part of your permanent record too. If you ever find something you left out after submission, immediately inform your security officer or the investigator. It’s better to correct it late than be seen as intentionally withholding. They might scold you for not getting it right initially, but it’s far better than them discovering it on their own.

In sum, think of the SF-86 as your chance to tell your full story – warts and all – in the way that is most favorable (yet truthful) to you. If you do that right, there will be very little an investigator can uncover that you haven’t already accounted for. That makes the investigation smoother and faster, and your integrity shines through. Many clearance attorneys will tell you: a well-prepared SF-86 is often the difference between a quick clearance and a drawn-out ordeal. It’s worth the effort upfront to avoid the nightmare of appeals and interrogations later.

How National Security Law Firm Can Help You Succeed

Filling out the SF-86 correctly is not about hiding your past – it’s about presenting your past truthfully, but also wisely. At National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we’ve helped thousands of clients navigate this nuanced process. Our team includes experts who have worked on the inside of the clearance adjudication system – including a former VA claims adjudicator and former military and federal attorneys – bringing insights from “the other side” of the table. We understand exactly how your SF-86 will be scrutinized, and we use that knowledge to set you up for success from the start. Here are some key ways we assist individuals with their SF-86 applications and renewals:

Issue Spotting & Truthful Framing: When you work with NSLF, our first step is to sit down with you (virtually or in person) and identify any and all potential problem areas in your background. This could be anything from a credit card debt you forgot about to a trip overseas that might slip your mind. Our attorneys have a detailed checklist to make sure nothing is overlooked. Once we know your full story, we help you frame those issues on the SF-86 truthfully but in the most favorable light. It’s like having an editor for a very important story – we make sure your answers are clear, complete, and won’t raise unnecessary suspicion. For example, if you had a termination from a job, we’ll ensure you disclose it as required but also include a concise, respectful explanation of circumstances (perhaps even noting a positive reference from that employer if you have one). If you have a past arrest, we’ll help you write the explanation to show what you learned and how you moved on. We essentially act as your sounding board and advisor for every “Yes” answer that needs an explanation, making sure that by the time you submit, you’re not inadvertently waving any red flags.
Avoiding Trigger Language: Through experience, we know certain words or phrasing can act like red flags to a reviewer. We guide you to avoid language that could trigger adverse assumptions. For instance, saying “I wasn’t caught for XYZ” is a big no-no; it implies you did something and might do it again. We’d help you rephrase something like that to focus on positive behavior, not the fact you evaded detection. Another example: if an answer is technically “yes” but very borderline, we ensure you don’t just mark yes without clarification. Sometimes a nuanced situation might not perfectly fit a yes/no, but we’ll help you answer in a way that is truthful and doesn’t mislead. This prevents those “gotcha” moments where an investigator latches onto a poorly worded response. Basically, we know the buzzwords that cause concern and help you replace them with honest, straightforward terminology. The result is an SF-86 that reads as solid and trustworthy, without hidden meanings or unintended implications.
Comprehensive Review & Consistency Check: One of the core services we provide is a line-by-line review of your SF-86 before you submit it. We verify that dates line up, that there are no gaps unaccounted for, and that everything you’ve written makes sense logically. We also cross-reference with any previous clearance applications or investigative paperwork you provide us to ensure consistency. If you’re doing a reinvestigation, we help reconcile your new answers with old ones (flagging anything that changed and crafting explanations if needed for those changes). Our attorneys essentially approach your form the way an adjudicator would – with a critical eye – so we can catch and fix issues in advance.
Crafting Supplemental Statements: If needed, we help you prepare supplemental statements or letters to include with your SF-86. Not every applicant will need this, but for those with more complex histories, a well-written statement can provide crucial context. For instance, if you have a foreign influence concern (say, close family abroad) or a serious financial issue that’s been resolved, we might draft a one-page memo that you can submit through your security officer to explain the situation in depth beyond the form fields. We ensure such statements hit all the mitigating points – basically doing the adjudicator’s job for them by explaining why, despite the issue, you’re still a good security risk. We also help gather any documents that could support your case (court records showing a charge was dismissed, financial receipts showing debts paid, medical letters regarding your health, etc.). By presenting a complete package, we minimize the back-and-forth that can delay clearance decisions.
Long-Term Risk Mitigation: Our assistance isn’t just about getting you through this one form. We educate our clients on long-term best practices for holding a clearance. That means, as we work on your SF-86, we also advise you on things like reporting requirements (e.g., “Once you’re cleared, remember you must report any new foreign contacts or arrests immediately, here’s how…”), and we set you up so that your paper trail will remain clean. Think of it as not only solving today’s puzzle, but also equipping you with knowledge to avoid future clearance pitfalls. If you come to us for a reinvestigation, we’ll review what was done in the past and make sure this update doesn’t introduce new issues. Many problems occur at the reinvestigation stage because the person didn’t realize something was reportable or thought they could omit something that happened since initial clearance. With NSLF’s counsel throughout your career, you’ll know exactly how to handle such events. Our goal is to make sure that when you’re up for a promotion or a polygraph years down the line, nothing in your SF-86 history comes back to bite you – because we addressed it correctly from the outset.
Experience and Insider Knowledge: NSLF isn’t just any law firm; we specialize in national security law. Our team’s background includes former clearance adjudicators and investigators, as well as military JAG officers and federal employment lawyers who have sat on promotion boards and clearance hearings. We know the process inside-out. This means we can often anticipate concerns before they’re raised and tackle them head-on. Our attorneys stay up-to-date on the latest policy changes (for example, when mental health question policies changed, or how marijuana use guidelines have been updated) so we can give you current advice. We leverage this insider expertise to give you an edge – we know what specific points adjudicators look for in cases of foreign contacts, or what a “Statement of Reasons” (SOR) letter typically says when someone’s clearance is denied for financial issues. By knowing that, we frame your SF-86 responses to preempt those very points. In short, we help you speak the clearance adjudicators’ language, ensuring your form addresses their concerns in a way they’ll appreciate.

Working with National Security Law Firm means you have a dedicated partner in your clearance journey. We’ve seen it all – from clients with seemingly spotless records who just want assurance they did it right, to clients with very complicated histories that required carefully crafted responses. In every case, our mission is the same: protect your career and clearance by getting it right the first time. As we often tell clients, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It’s far less stressful and costly to do a thorough job on the SF-86 now than to try to appeal a clearance denial later. And if you’re reading this after already hitting a snag (maybe you got an SOR or facing a polygraph re-test), we can still step in and help fix it – but ideally, let us help you avoid those situations altogether.

Ready to Take the Next Step? Let’s Talk.

Filling out an SF-86 can be daunting, but you don’t have to go it alone. National Security Law Firm (NSLF) is here to guide you every step of the way. We’ve assisted clients from all walks of life – first-time clearance applicants, seasoned federal employees going through reinvestigation, military personnel, contractors – you name it. Our expertise and personalized approach have earned us over 150 4.9-star reviews on Google from clients who successfully obtained or retained their clearances. We invite you to see what they have to say and to experience our top-rated service for yourself.

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