Financial troubles brought on by the partial government shutdown could impact eligibility to retain a security clearance, the Air Force has noted in guidance to civilian employees that could apply as well to all agencies.
The service noted that financial difficulty is a red flag in clearances because of the potential vulnerability it creates to bribery and other crimes.
It advises that anyone with deteriorating finances related to the shutdown notify higher management and the security office immediately. It notes that under security clearance policy, certain situations can mitigate financially related concerns, including conditions in which the problem was beyond the individual’s control and the individual acted responsibly.
It suggested working with creditors, keeping good documents, and working with creditors to lessen the immediate impact. Some banks and credit unions have loosened their policies to take the shutdown into account.
The Air Force message is here: http://www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/467266/communication-key-in-protecting-security-clearance-during-financial-hardships.aspx
