Security Clearance Prep (Form SF-86)

Who qualifies

U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens sponsored by a federal agency, military branch, or cleared contractor for a national security role.

The step-by-step roadmap

1. 1

   Gather 10-Year Address and Job History

   List every residence, employer, and school attended over the past 7 to 10 years without leaving any date gaps.

   Watch out: Unexplained gaps of even one month will cause investigation delays.

   Common rejection reason: Incomplete supervisor contact info or unlisted residences.
2. 2

   Document Foreign Contacts and Travel

   Record all foreign travel dates and details of recurring contact with non-U.S. citizens.

   Watch out: Do not omit foreign friends, business partners, or immediate relatives abroad.

   Common rejection reason: Missing passport stamps or unreported foreign financial assets.
3. 3

   Compile Financial and Legal Records

   Gather records of delinquent debts, bankruptcies, civil judgments, and any police citations or arrests.

   Watch out: Failing to disclose debts over 120 days delinquent looks like intentional concealment.

   Common rejection reason: Omitted minor traffic citations requiring court appearances.
4. 4

   Review References and Finalize Data

   Identify people who know you well at each address and job, then prepare your final answers for the official eApp system.

   Watch out: Listing the same reference for multiple addresses or using relatives where verifiers are required.

   Common rejection reason: Invalid phone numbers or refusal by listed contacts to verify info.

Documents you'll need

• Past 10 Years Residential & Work History

  Full addresses, supervisor names, phone numbers, and physical verifier contact info for each location.

  Note: Verifier cannot be a family member.

• Passports and International Travel Records

  Current and expired passports showing entry/exit stamps and flight records for foreign trips.

• Credit Reports and Debt Documentation

  Recent credit reports and payment plan agreements for any past-due accounts, collections, or liens.

  Note: Proof of active repayment plans is critical.