SF-86 Tips & Common Mistakes
Avoid these common pitfalls when completing your security clearance application.
The #1 Rule: Be Honest
The most important advice for the SF-86 is complete honesty. Investigators are looking for patterns of behavior and your ability to be truthful. Omitting or lying about information - even embarrassing information - is far worse than the underlying issue. Many clearances have been denied not because of past mistakes, but because applicants tried to hide them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Frequent errors that cause delays or denials include: Forgetting to list short-term jobs or residences, Not including all foreign contacts (including online relationships), Underreporting drug or alcohol use, Not listing terminated employments, Failing to disclose minor legal issues, Inconsistent information between sections.
Key Points
- Include ALL jobs, even if only for a few weeks
- List ALL addresses, including temporary ones
- Foreign contacts include anyone you communicate with regularly
- Traffic tickets generally do not need to be reported unless they were criminal
Financial Disclosure Tips
Financial problems do not automatically disqualify you, but hiding them will. Be upfront about debts, bankruptcies, foreclosures, or tax issues. Explain what caused the problems and what you are doing to address them. Showing responsible handling of financial difficulties is viewed more favorably than having no issues at all in some cases.
Key Points
- Pull your credit report before applying
- Address any errors on your credit report
- Document payment plans for outstanding debts
- Explain circumstances (job loss, medical bills, divorce)
References Selection
Choose references who have known you well and can speak to your character. Inform them they may be contacted. Select people who will respond promptly - unresponsive references cause major delays. Do not list family members as references unless specifically requested. Include a mix of professional and personal references.
After Submitting
Keep copies of everything. Respond promptly to any follow-up requests. If your situation changes (new address, job change, foreign travel), inform your security officer. Do not contact investigators directly unless they reach out to you. Be patient - the process takes time.