How to mitigate drug use on sf86. I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically.

• How to mitigate drug use on sf86 Nowhere is the risk of problems more real than for those with a history of recent illegal drug use (including marijuana) or misuse of prescription drugs. As the title says, I was not completely honest about my drug usage when filling out my SF-86 and my investigation interview over two years ago. Use of Key updates include reduced lookback periods for most sections, narrowing the scope of inquiry to five years instead of seven or ten. One of the first things the SF86 says is that your answers on the form cannot be used against you. I never thought I would receive an offer like this, let alone ever be in the realm of getting a TS/secret clearance. I told my recruiter about how I had used my friends weed pen at a party in august. If you search my post history, you can see my original question. gov or call between 8 A. The chips will fall where they may. In a period of public comment, the Intelligence and c. Using illegal drugs, impairment at work due to drug use. So, the information on your SF86 is passed on. Let a few more years pass. Due to concerns about completing the SF86 regarding an employee’s mental health This clearance applicant filled out an SF-86 in 2011 and failed to disclose drug use (marijuana) and related arrests between that occurred between 1999 and 2008. Under Guideline H, Drug Involvement, the government may have security concerns about past or current illegal drug use since In theory, just about anything bad you do before or even while holding a security clearance can be mitigated, assuming it was a one-time offense or out of character action. Although the Adjudicative Guidelines list any drug use as a disqualifying condition; most young people are able to substantially mitigate their drug involvement. Although the form has seen periodic updates – most notably, to the mental health The full question (23. Past drug abuse is evaluated I’ve been reading a lot of similar stories but just want someone to tell it to me straight based on my situation. These Standard Forms I have relatively recent marijuana use (last use 3 months ago) but am honest about my use, frequency, and am willing to sign a statement of attestation that I will never use again. The clearance application form (Questionnaire for National Security Positions, Standard Form 86—SF86) asks about alcohol You definitely have a fraudulent enlistment issue. Only 10 months earlier? Higher hurdle. Question 25. I lied about my habitual marijuana use and I also sold my prescription adderal to a kid down the hall in college dorms (2017, 15 pills total). If you tell the truth, you can mitigate by explaining the details and the interest is more on finding your potential for future abuse. The use was MJ, combined with the aiding, abetting, transfer, handling, saleyeah that will be a different category. You must include the number of times an illegal drug was used. A current user of illegal drugs cannot be granted a security clearance. It’s not an issue necessarily of using the drugs. I have a history of drug use as many other have brought up. Add in higher category drugs like LSDadd in selling, transferring etcthe situation increases by several magnitudes of This question is for previous or current investigators. unfortunately, a The Standard Form 86 (SF 86), Questionnaire for National Security Positions, is completed by persons under consideration for or retention in national security positions as Use of Illegal Drugs and Drug Activity. I have read almost every post regarding drug use on this sub and the consensus I found is: do not lie on the SF86. Learn more about the most common security clearance disqualifiers. It is NOT a security clearance. The nature of the transgression dictates the nature of the mitigation. Search | (888) 719-4720. Otherwise, unless denoted by a time frame(7 years for drugs, etc), it's an EVER question. ” So be it. Completing SF86 Application Page 6 6. I had recent narcotics use (prescription drugs) and “recent” cannabis use, as well as an extensive, fun-filled history of recreational drug use. But not for the MJ use. She testified she used drugs in high sc hool about 20 times and only used marijuana a fe w times in colleg e. I disclosed drug use from 2014-2022 on my SF86. Majority of use was experimentation during college but continued some after graduating. I omitted information at MEPS. Excessive use/drinking to Nicole Smith, Esq. I plan on Sf86 Drug Use Questions: Security Clearance Manual William H. If your last use was 5 years ago and your first use was 15 years ago using weekly until five years ago, that is a drastically different story. " Recruiter and family members who had previously served told me to mark no, even though I occasionally used MJ on and off for about 10 months from Fall of 2014 to Spring of 2015 (fuzzy about the exact months but it was fall and spring semester). Validating Browser Settings Page 5 4. I stopped use to pass a drug test and while I had my internship. Security clearance adjudicators understand that people make mistakes and that people have unexpected expenses in life. Instance involved 1 time Marijuana: Weekly for about 3 years (Last use 6 months ago) Adderall: 8 Times (Last Use 1 year ago) Cocaine: Twice (Last Use 2 year ago) Shrooms: Once (3 Years Ago A year ago, I organized a drug safety workshop, ceased hard drug use, received Naloxone training, and In November 2023 the new Personnel Vetting Questionnaire (PVQ) was approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Question 22. I was clear about stopping but I still have friends/brother who use recreationally. Dumb College Decisions. 2 asks: “Have you ever been charged with an offense involving alcohol or drugs?” I resigned during an internal affairs investigation for suspected drug use with my job at the Sheriff’s Department. I had one red flag which was relatively recent drug usage HOW TO POTENTIALLY MITIGATE DRUG INVOLVEMENT CONCERNS? Although you are required to disclose any and all past drug involvement on Standard Form 86 (SF86), the Questionnaire for National Security clearance adjudicators today appear much more interested in how applicants have separated themselves from drug culture or other users. Downplaying drug use on SF-86 and . So I omitted information about drug use on my SF-86 and to the BI for a TS/SCI w/ FS. For example, questions about drug use now differentiate between marijuana and other substances, drug use is required to be disclosed. I submitted my SF-86 earlier today for a Secret clearance. Living responsible sinceis mitigation. Concern about drug use on SF-86. . , a Tully Rinckey PLLC Associate, represents government employees and contractors in a wide range of security clearance matters, to include providing security clearance application assistance and It looks like you may have concerns about illegal drug use/abuse. More like 10 years on drug use. form you need to fill out for a security clearance. SF-86 is used for Secret and TS only. On the third one (November 2017) I admitted all of my drug use. The CIA's Careers website and intelligencecareers. If you list drug use on your SF-86, use the additional comments section to specify any dates, and the type Read up on the 13 adjudicative guidelines which include: allegiance to the United States, foreign influence, foreign preference, personal conduct, sexual behavior, financial considerations, alcohol consumption, drug Applicant failed to mitigate the Government’s securityconcerns under Guideline H, drug involvement and substance misuse. . You can offer to sign an affidavit swearing you won't use it anymore, note to the investigator that you were not aware that you would be considered for a clearance by your employer and wouldn't have used weed if you'd known, and you could offer to submit to drug testing to prove you haven't since I’ve seen a few questions on here similar to my situation but mine is a bit different. Where it asked for "Month and date of first use" would that be first use ever, or first use within the last 7 years? Should I attach a letter at the end, with an explanation of my use, reasons I believe it can be mitigated and a statement of intent to abstain from all drug use? Could the nanograms defense be key to mitigating drug use in your security clearance application? Because federal suitability guidelines differ between agencies, drug use is often a Hello, Let me preface this by saying that I completed the SF86 for a Secret clearance for a DoD contracting company. If your previous SF86 omitted the drug use, that’s a different problem. The problem with submitting and being denied is that it is that much harder to get a clearance with a previous denial in your record 1. Here is my history: Started with marijuana over the summer and continued until two weeks ago. I used marijuana from college (graduated 2017) and continued to use after I graduated until early 2019 and filed an sf-86 in March 2020 where I answered NO to past drug use. I am a current college junior (going into my senior year) in the process of applying for Navy OCS. But coming clean is a mitigation. ” You don’t have to report a rescinded offer—and if you weren’t actually denied clearance, “don’t say they did,” Moss Hey all currently just graduated from college and been a lurker here. 2) on the SF86 reads "in the last 7 years have you been involved intrafficking, production, transfer, shipping, receiving, handling or sale of any drug So in my BI opinion, you were involved in the handling, receiving and possibly transfer of a drug. In 2022 I was bumped to TS and disclosed drug use and that I mis-represented it on my original. S. I don't know if the clearance was granted, but the fact that I never got any denial emails These court opinions by security clearance judges address concerns including illegal drug use by security clearance applicants. If recent usage is I don’t keep in contact with those people, I attended counseling for 8 months, I got my Masters in the interim, and I have had a stellar employment record during and since last drug involvement. So about 6 months of use. Or could be because the person had already put some form of drug use on their SF86 so the investigators already had some knowledge ahead of time and asked A place to ask questions and share advice about the security clearance process. This job requires security clearance. While many of these cases don’t always end favorably, the applicant Some guesses? “Experimental” use (terminology that I hate but is used) is pretty easy to mitigate. Rules. How to Potentially Mitigate Drug Involvement Concerns? Although you are required to disclose any and all past drug involvement on Standard Form 86 (SF86), the Questionnaire for National Security Positions, there are a variety of mitigating factors that may be considered. (TR 104) Applicant testified took a drug test for her internship in February or March 2005 and passed it. Question #23 Of course, if you already have your security clearance and you find that alcohol is impacting your life, there are steps you can take so that you don’t lose your security clearance. On the first two SF-86s (August and October 2017) I minimized past drug use (I omitted 6 times of using marijuana/hashish and misuse of Ambien). Didn’t know much about clearences and the actual seriousness of it until after I Our Drug PolicyThe United States Secret Service is committed to a drug-free workplace. Accessing eQIP Page 5 5. I failed to mention the one and only time I ever did any drugs. Ended up getting two interviews because he failed to list I was terminated (without cause - it was a “this isn’t a ‘good fit’ situation). My recruiter wrote some crazy shit on my 86. any illegal drug use after being granted a security clearance; Examples of time periods that might mitigate various types and frequencies of past drug use; based on a 1992 Defense Department study. I completed an sf-86 months ago and detailed all this drug involvement, but the investigation was cancelled before being completed, so I intend to be For many years, security clearance applicants have completed Standard Form (SF) 86 to initiate the required background investigation. On the other hand certain Federal agencies hold hard-line, "Never Allowed" policies, for various reasons. Submission Page 6 7. The lien on your car is related to the loan given to purchase the car. I applied even though I’ve used marijuana (4 times) in the past year. Quite the pickle. Removing that friend from your life is a mitigation. I smoked marijuana one night in college when I was 19. Company An applicant with a foreign contact that meets the other criteria in Section 19 of the SF-86 (one with whom the applicant, or the applicant’s spouse, or legally recognized civil union/domestic Arguably, the most significant change being undertaken by the PVQ relates to cannabis use. including, but not limited to: (1) disassociation from drug-using associates and contacts; (2) changing or avoiding the environment where drugs were used; and (3) providing a signed Has anyone lied on a SF86 and been able to successfully mitigate? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Information Needed to Complete the SF-86: Questionnaire for National Security Positions The SF-86 is a standard, U. To start it off, when filling out my SF-86 I didn’t include any usage, however when I had my interview, I did admit that I had smoked weed About 7 years ago I lied on an sf-86 about drug use before a summer internship. Realized shortly after completing form it would be better to be honest upfront, so brought the information/changes with me to the interview, explained my reasoning for putting no on form, SF-86 Prescription Drug Use Question . I have no criminal history and have never messed with any illegal substance since I was 17 years old, which was 11 years ago. I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. I had used marijuana a few instances before back in the summer entering high school Examples of time periods that might mitigate various types and frequencies of past drug use; based on a 1992 Defense Department study. gov (where you would apply for positions directly at the NSA or NGA) both say that the minimum required period of abstinence from cannabis use is 90 days before applying so you should go with that. I had just gotten out of a highly toxic relationship with someone I had loved very much. and from what i’ve read on this sub, the government is worried about potential blackmail or the fact that you’re willing to break the law repeatedly despite how you view it as right or wrong. Will there be consequences? Could be. So no, you shouldn't be at risk for admitting drug use. M. 5-6 years ago, I was sick in college and went back home for a weekend. I recently went through a background investigation with the local PD for a position and put down any and all drug use. The Secret Service does not condone any prior unlawful drug A third example could involve the use of drugs by an individual while holding a security clearance. Applicant’s eligibilityfor a security At the time of his drug abuse, he held a security clearance. government form required for national security positions. 1 instance of MDMA 4 months prior, and 1 instance of Marijuana 3 years prior. I lied about my past drug use but now Ive come to realize that the job Im going for as a C130 loadmaster requires a security clearance. Possibly for not disclosing it. Here it is: One year ago, I applied for a Secret clearance. I am filling out the SF86 form now. I’ve removed myself from the situation (bad roommate influence), and am starting employment, and moving to a different On SF86, put no for drug use -- combination of wanting to be done with the form ASAP and being embarrassed about that part of my past because it's in no way who I am anymore. I am a college student pursuing a type of Engineering and got a full time offer from NG a few weeks ago. I am actively being recruited by my old agency in a different area and they are offering me a new position doing something else (much more enjoyable). That’s it. Henderson,2007 Security Clearance Manual is an indispensable guide for security happens what it costs how to build an effective program to mitigate risk and how corporate culture determines your success They then pass the information that they have gathered on to an adjudicator who will assess this file and make a determination. Do so. The government has stated that “I want a security clearance” is not a good reason to have stopped using illegal drugs. I’ve seen a handful discharged for that. I thought others may be interested as I was to hear specifically about that part but not necessarily wanting to listen to Civilian, military, and contract personnel seeking sensitive positions in the Federal Government are required to complete the Standard Form 86 (SF86), Questionnaire for National Security Positions, as part of their initial applications and then periodically throughout their careers. This review aims to determine whether the applicant can be trusted and is responsible enough to handle sensitive data. I left the internship and returned to school for 2 years using drugs again during that time (I found out later that I was actually using drugs with an active security clearance). The best advice is to mitigate any potential issues by demonstrating steps you’ve taken to separate yourself from prior use. 1: 559: The most common way in which this issue arises is when a federal employee is arrested, completes a new SF-86 (eQIP), or self-reports the drug use. My history roughly looks like to the best of my memory (all marijuana) 2007- Fall 2009 usage 3-4 times Fall 2009 - Spring 2010 1-2 times a month (purchased myself during this time) Spring 2010 - Fall 2011 None Fall 2011- Fall 2013 1 time a month (never purchased) Fall 2013- Fall 2015 None Fall Hello, I am a college senior currently filling out my SF86 for a secret clearance. The My original Secret SF-86 in 2018 I did not disclose drug use in college. The key to maintaining your security clearance is Hi guys. Before this gets controversial here’s my background: I’ve used ecstasy 10 This can be an issue for some applicants. Those possessing a security clearance are required to be responsible and reliable when it comes to their duties, and this responsibility is not limited [] There may still be time to mitigate your SF-86 omission. The issues of potential concern are: Moss reports that “countless clients have written on their SF-86 that they were denied a security clearance when, in fact, all that happened was a government agency previously rescinded an offer of employment. For one, stop immediately if you haven’t already. She fully disclosed the drug use on her SF86 and during her background Ask anyone who has obtained security clearance in the past six or so years, and they are likely to tell you that completing Standard Form 86 is a monumental task. I applied 04/2021, on my SF 86 I Mitigate your past use of weed somehow. EST at (771) 333-6740. I plan to reapply for public trust or a clearance of some sort as soon as realistically possible, which would be next spring, putting the drug use within a 2 year range. The drug policy on marijuana (only drug I’ve ever consumed) is to be clean for a year at the time of application. Investigations and Clearance Record. Provide a clear, honest response to the question. 12: 26943: January 6, 2020 Mistake on SF-86. If your last use was 5 years ago and your first use was 6 years ago, using once or twice every 2-3 months, it tells a story of how much you used. Put some time between you and the drug use and take steps to mitigate it. Now, I am already nervous enough about this process since I have things in my past that are certainly red flags (drug use, MIP, . Filling out the SF-86 will help you qualify to haul freight for the DOD, but a few things can prevent your eligibility. Guideline I: Emotional, mental, and personality disorders Patterns of risky or aggressive behavior, refusal to comply with treatment programs. I have just got a new job and it will require a Top Secret w/ Poly. In such a case, it might be important to gather evidence about the timing of the drug use, the individual’s changes in their social life, dissociation with individuals that use drugs, abstinence from the usage of drugs and how that person has The Office of Personnel Management recently released a draft version of a new Personnel Vetting Questionnaire, the replacement for the SF-86, SF-85, and SF-85P. Likely looked upon as “not likely to repeat”. In addition, I listed being let go for a temp job in 2008 because I asked two days off of work, which I It may not fully mitigate the drug use issue, but it will help on the dishonesty/lack of candor issue. Many security clearance (b) the individual acknowledges his or her drug involvement and substance misuse, provides evidence of actions taken to overcome this problem, and has established a pattern of abstinence. The question asks if while holding a SECURITY clearance. Each subsequent sf86 they denied ever using. Your original post pointed to YEARS of consistent (even if only a few times a year) use. Stupid I know, I was rushing finals, stressed over senior year, and was scared shitless about a one time LSD a year and half ago. As drug use is rarely singular, whomever used with you, sold to you, gave to you can blackmail you. Ultimately Applicant failed to mitigate the considerable concerns raised by his drug use and was denied a clearance. (Ex hibit 1; TR 86-87) She disclosed her drug use on the SF 86 as she wanted to be 100% honest. I got uncomfortable and stopped sales. He obtained the Hydrocodone from his wife, who has a legal prescription for it. The Appeal Board for the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals has stated, “Without question, a In November 2022, OPM proposed consolidating and revising background investigation forms including the SF-86—the form used for positions that require access to classified information and sensitive positions. Fingerprints Page 5 2. drug involvement, or alcoholism can provide a barrier to receiving security -Guideline E/H: Use of drugs while holding a clearance, the clearance was not active at the time as I was not working in a cleared position, but I had been favorably adjudicated. Basically everything. For undesirable information listed on the SF86, is there a benefit to listing additional comments? In my case I have a Reckless Driving conviction (plead down from DUI) along with court ordered alcohol class and evaluation. If your investigator wants to know more, First you must receive security clearance by completing the SF-86 to determine your eligibility. Accepted an offer for a DoD contractor and started working/submitted e-QIP mid June. In addition, I’ve listed the mitigation steps I’ve taken to ensure I no longer need to use it. I have This post is the truth. To obtain a security clearance, applicants must complete Standard Form 86, which an adjudicating agency reviews. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns. If the best answer you have is “I don’t believe I used coke, so I said no. Since the application process itself is often nothing short of herculean and time-consuming to boot, this place is meant to serve as a talking ground to answer questions, better improve applications, and increase one's chance of being 'Referred'. As for the rest, just be honest. The mj use was 12 years prior when they were very young, but already cleared. Time can mitigate a lot, so if all that was 30 years ago and one now has good credit, etcmuch is no longer considered. HOW TO POTENTIALLY MITIGATE DRUG INVOLVEMENT CONCERNS? Although you are required to disclose any and all past drug involvement on Standard Form 86 (SF86), the Questionnaire for National Let’s take a look at a Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals case involving Guideline H, to see how prior drug use can impact security clearance holders. com By: By: Allison R. (TR 84; 103) Note that while most questions in this section ask about the last seven years only, the questions regarding felonies, drug and alcohol offenses, firearms, explosives and domestic violence refer to your entire life. Question Hello, I'm hopping over from r/1811 with a question about prescription drug misuse. HOW TO FILL OUT THE SF-86 The Standard Form 86 "Questionnaire for National Security Positions" (SF-86) is a background investigation form you need to fill out for a security clearance. Since it was less than 5 times spread over 7 years I didn’t not When I originally submitted the SF-86 I omitted having partaken in any drug substances. Your use of alcohol and, more specifically, the following circumstances, can impact your eligibility for a security clearance: a. You don’t report your drug use from 9 years ago. The possibility of them believing you falsified the SF 86 is likely a bigger concern. I lied about my drug use because I didn’t know the seriousness nor severity of the sf-86. There are various sections on the Personnel Security Questionnaire SF-86 which can elicit responses to determine if your judgment should be questioned as a result of your alcohol use. amberbunny July 28, 2017, 5:29pm 5. If that I received an internship offer JAN2018. Hey all, another user had posted about a podcast that was discussing the latest on the PVQ (Personnel Vetting Questionnaire, the replacement for the SF-86, SF-85, and SF-85P) and since there are a lot of discussions on this sub regarding marijuana use etc. Every federal contractor, No justifying, rationalizing, beating around the bush or other dodges. Anyways, Got a secret clearance. I plan to apply for another position in the military that requires a top secret clearance. They are not a formula to be applied mechanically in all cases; there is no formula for evaluating period of time in the Adjudicative Guidelines. While you wait for a response, you may find helpful information on our Wiki page dealing with Drug Involvement. I felt bad about it at the time but wanted to get away from my current situation asap (breakup, contract, and Personal conduct and security clearance decisions involve evaluating the totality of incidents to determine the applicant's eligibility. You are in a much better position than I was. Looking for a way to turn my life around, I decided to reenlist in the Air National Guard. I’m filling out my eqip and am truthfully reporting the following: 2x LSD usage in 12/2018 4x THC usage 1/2019-1/2020 I understand the severity of these admissions. It's federal law enforcement agencies (both cleared and non-cleared) that have the Agency is DoD On forms for secret clearance, subject disclosed drug use. While you wait for a response, you may find helpful information on our Wiki page dealing with Drug Involvement . I’ve seen people speak about written character references in their clearance cases to help mitigate drug use. When I returned to school, my mom said she included some medicine for me in a Security clearances are essential for specific government jobs or contract positions involving confidential information access. I personally wouldn't worry about it. Then as a MSgtadmitted to use many years prior. ” The SF 86 is a permanent document that may be used as the basis for future investigations, Hit there, I was looking over the SF86 and had a question. 1 What is the SF 86? The Standard Form 86, “Questionnaire for National Security Positions” is intended specifically for use in requesting investigations for persons seeking to occupy positions designated as National Security “Sensitive. I don't consider myself a habitual drug user, but some of my housemates are, and during the past year I have smoked marijuana (once a week at most, the last time over a month The SF86 has always asked about illegal drug use, but the question has become more confusing in recent years with eight states legalizing the recreational use of marijuana. One example we’ve seen involves drug usage. I won’t explain why because I now know it doesn’t matter anymore, but there was a reason I didn’t say so. I wanted to better myself and also get away/get distracted from my failed partnership. Many employers have a zero-tolerance policy for drug use, so if you’re asking your FSO questions about whether Same old same old "Lied about drug use on SF86 and MEPS paperwork. Investigator called the old job and I had to explain the situation away twice. Open menu Open education, residence is 10 years. If you can mitigate the personal conduct and drug concern then yes you still have a This subreddit is for all those interested in working for the United States federal government. The information provided on this form is used to determine whether you are reliable, trustworthy, of good conduct and character, and loyal to the U. Biggest example is how, for Defense contractors, previous pot use (and to some extent other drug use) can sometimes be waivered/mitigated. Investigators also want to know about any biases you hold, as well as any current or former drug and alcohol abuse. It delayed re-clearingbut they did clear. Learn more about the top disqualifiers. 1 Like. What mental health issues do I need to report? Initial clearance requests: Clearance candidates should follow current Standard Form 86 (SF-86) Section 21 guidance regarding reporting instructions. Within the last 7 years I have tried LSD (once in 2014, once in 2019, once in summer 2020 and once early 2021), shrooms (once in 2014), MDMA (once in late 2019) and cocaine (three times from around 2016-2019). SECURITY CLEARANCE Q&A. Your agency I have submitted three SF-86s for various jobs. Mitigation involves a stated and demonstrated intent not to abuse any drugs in the future, disassociation from drug-using associates, changing or avoiding the environment where drugs were used, and an appropriate Image: Craig F Scott/Shutterstock. Thank you for the advice in advance, I am a sophomore in college and am currently being investigated for an Interim Top Secret clearance with a large defense contractor that requires a polygraph. Questions regarding illegal drug use on the PVQ will be divided into separate areas to distinguish between use of marijuana or cannabis derivatives containing THC and use of other illegal drugs or controlled substances, in recognition of changing societal The FEDCAS website is a bit out of date. I asked a coworker who was in the Army and had a TS about form you need to fill out for a security clearance. I was instructed by a security-clearance related attorney to in-depth disclose all drug use and then I also wrote a letter attached saying I was a kid, I was stupid, I won't do It looks like you may have concerns about illegal drug use/abuse. Furthermore, applicants for employment with the Secret Service who currently use illegal drugs will be found unsuitable for employment. I realize they only ask about drug history a year into the past, but they’ll obviously Long story short, I lied about past drug use on a SF86 I submitted for a secret clearance in 2019 for an internship that was cancelled due to COVID (I was worried that the drug use would be an instant DQ and didn't have anyone else to tell me otherwise). In theory, just about anything “bad” you do as a security clearance holder can be mitigated one way or another in the eyes of personnel security officials. Contact your contractor's FSO or security office and ask them for the process of amending the SF-86 you're determined to do that. For example, a first-time DUI arrest might be mitigated by attendance at an alcohol education class, whereas a third time offense will Hey man, thanks for the congratulations. I said I had never used drugs before on my SF-86 which was not truthful. In DOHA Case No. Question 27. I had just turned 22. Around a year ago I also stopped drinking alcohol, would it be appropriate to mention this in the drug section of the SF86, under the extra comments. My thought process is that I should own up to it and just admit that I did it and take it on the chin if I get rejected. Subject is granted clearance. So, I was stupid and lied at MEPS per my recruiter’s advice. The government approved 638,679 clearances in 2015, the most recent year in which information was available, according to The Washington Post. When applying I did not realize what all this entailed (being clean of drugs) but this is a dream job, and I would work on very interesting stuff that I would love. 15-00234, the security clearance concerns related to his drug use were mitigated because he was a young college student when he engaged in the activity, disclosed this information on his SF86 Honesty is the best policy, but TMI isn’t. The SF86 is part (the beginning) of the gathered information and will be included with the file that is passed on for adjudication. Many people, including myself have admitted to drug use. My experience is MJ use is easy to overlook as foolish behavior. For the drug question, It stated for the past 7 years have you taken any. 2 1/2 years later subject applies for a TS clearance but discloses previously undisclosed drug use that occurred during their secret investigation. Frequent marijuana use, occasional MDMA, LSD, psilocybin and cocaine use. Hello I’m a recent college grad just starting out at a federal contracting firm. Mitigation. If you apply for federal jobs not requiring a So I’ll just lay it out. 02 violation, foreign contacts). It’s a result of failure to pay taxes on the vehicle or failure to pay the debt incurred in buying For assistance with completing the security clearance package for a Department of State investigation or to inquire about the status of your security clearance with the Department of State, email the DSS Office of Personnel Security and Suitability Customer Service Center at SecurityClearance@state. I don’t recall Based on the details of your drug use, you will likely need a period of two years being clean and sober to fully mitigate your past usage with time. government form that must be completed by all prospective Collect information on any use of illegal drugs, drug activity, and use of alcohol. Excessive use/drinking to intoxication. In evaluating his record, the administrative judge took an opportunity to lay out the details of The SF-86: Questionnaire for National Security Positions is a standard U. Erring on the side of truthfulness is always the best path. Since 1955. PeachTrees July 28, 2019, Lied about drug use on SF-86-Am I completely screwed. Police Record. I was as open as possible, used psychedelics last in 2019 and smoked Marijuana until April this year. In 2014 the applicant submitted another SF-86 and once again failed to disclose his previous drug use and criminal history (including a 2012 DUI). I’ve listed all requested data in both sections but wondering if I should include how serious I’ve Steps for Completing your SF86 Pages 5 - 6 1. The form has more than twenty (20) sections and it can take up to two (2) Collect information on any use of illegal drugs, drug activity, and use of alcohol in the last seven (7) years. I would argue that your situation is very different from mine. Recent hard drug use would be harder to mitigate if not near impossible versus cannabis. When mitigating security issues, you should submit regardless of the reasons it’s still federally prohibited to use marijuana. But one illegal behavior that has proved very hard to I've posted on here a couple of years back asking some questions about previous drug use on my security clearance application when I was applying as an intern with the State Department for a Secret Clearance. I need to retain this internship because I have relocated for this job, I It looks like you may have concerns about illegal drug use/abuse. With the "remembered" stuff being pot use over 2 years ago, they'll probably just run through some mitigation questions with you then sign it off. Some details about my past drug use: Dug Used: Marijuana Began August 2020, ended October 2021 Nature of use: during college So back in around September I was working with an AF Reserve recruiter to join the Air Force. Nine years ago, when I first joined, I did not disclose prior drug use when I was enlisting. No, you’re not automatically screwed. SF86 Checklist Page 5 3. 9: Past marijuana use and SF-86 . The getting ride of alcohol was for religious A multitude of past blemishes could bar you from obtaining a security clearance — from drug use to defaulting on a mortgage to a history of mental health issues. Skip to main content. I applied for and was granted a Secret Clearance August of 2017. Apply Now! Careers. But I believe it is the right thing to do. Don’t answer the unasked questions on the SF-86. I was prepared to be open and honest I left the government last year. So, I was offered a federal position recently and filled out an SF-86 because Secret clearance was required for this Under Guideline H, Drug Involvement, the government may have security concerns about past or current illegal drug use since this can raise questions as to your judgment, trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity. I have some previous drug use that I am putting but I have been clean for several years. Mitigate them! Luckily, the federal You can improve your chances by using the ‘Additional Comments’ section on your SF-86 to mitigate any potential issues. Do not encourage lying--directly or by omission--to investigators or on government forms. Section 22. But that risk is always with the person. Even if you have issues that are too recent to mitigate, its better to wait a couple of years and be honest than risk ruining Hey all I have a question about disclosing past drug use on the Sf-86. 12: 7546: January 15, 2019 SF86 issue, Need Advice from TS holders. All others use SF-85P(and sometimes other forms with Drug Use Primary Offender for SF-86 Applicants. He used the to mitigate mental health issues and is recognized as a positive step during the personnel vetting process. The PVQ replaces the Standard Forms 85, 85P, 85P-S, and 86. If you have not used since 2013, recommend pulling back SF86. Essentially, any behavior that could leave you vulnerable to bribery or extortion will raise a red flag. sure there is legislation floating around congress to legalize it, but as of right now it is illegal. Marko nailed it. The If a person has poor credit, previous drug use issues, criminal arrests, one forms an overall opinion. A few months ago I was denied a public trust after admitting to using marijuana twice, 7 months before filling out my e qip. Even if you experimented one time, if it occurred in the last seven years, needs to be listed Counseling: Any counseling for drugs, whether illegal or misuse of prescription or over-the-counter medication or household products, needs to be listed Legalized medicinal or recreational use of marijuana: Without a security clearance, opportunities for certain top positions are completely out of reach. Just told me sign. When issues arise involving illegal drug use or abuse of prescription drugs, in the scope of a security clearance investigation or review, it is very important to take them seriously and to obtain legal representation But interim clearances require issue mitigation before the investigation is completed. Criminal conduct involving alcohol b. It looks like you may have concerns about illegal drug use/abuse. If, in the past on forms, I have said I have never used marijuana should I maintain that or admit to it on the SF-86. Question 24. A place to ask questions and share advice about the security clearance process. I applied for a job that requires a TS clearance. M – 5 P. This means a few times at the high school and collage ages. Therefore, the unlawful use of drugs by Secret Service employees is not tolerated. But listing each specific instance of drug use on an application may be making a bigger issue of a small problem. When you're up for reinvestigation, those incidents in 2014 are likely fall out of the 7 year scope for drug use. You are being asked to go back 7 years. Using illegal drugs a few months prior to submitting a clearance application form can be considered current use. What I Just keep in mind that it doesn’t come with confidentiality. Please be aware of the FBI Employment Drug Policy when reporting this activity. So I agree with u/PirateKilt that you would benefit from taking a year or two to work in a non-cleared job so you can live substance free living, crime free, and establish a solid history of reliability at work. I am active duty military and currently have a secret clearance. He said to put no for drug use on the sf-86 and me being dumb and too trusting I Lying on the other hand is more serious in itself. I realized that I omitted one on my sf 86 from 2010 and 2015. Signature Pages and Expected Attachments Page 6 SF86 Required Information by Sections (Checklist) Pages 7 - 8 And, regardless of the chances of overcoming prior illegal drug use, an applicant should always be honest on the SF-86–it is a form signed under penalty of perjury and, as others have sadly learned the hard way, the cover I have a question about putting down some past drug usage on the SF86. I also used adderall maybe 5 times to help study in college a year or two prior to 2017 which I did omit as well. When I had filled out my Secret SF86 form, I did not disclose trying marijuana one or two times in the last 7 years. Don’t add unasked-for information. Keep plugging away at being a better you. Weber, Esq. Read the guidelines, but steps include disassociating from individuals with whom you did drugs or taking other steps to avoid triggered. Because drugs can be overlooked and mitigated why lie? It is easy to mitigate drug use than mitigating the lies/falsification of documents. The SF86 provides some protection against criminal prosecution. Even if an individual In order to receive an interim security clearance, potentially disqualifying information disclosed by an applicant in the Questionnaire for National Security Positions (Standard Form 86 —SF86) must be mitigated by Hiding Drug Use? Don’t Do It! Many security clearance applicants become tempted to hide former drug use, such as the fact that they smoked marijuana or abused Do any of the references or others listed on your SF86 know about your drug use? Could it come out in their interviews? Write up your story and stress all of the applicable How to Potentially Mitigate Drug Involvement Concerns? Although you are required to disclose any and all past drug involvement on Standard Form 86 (SF86), the Questionnaire One of the more common issues that arise in the context of security clearance investigations is the issue of illegal drug usage and prescription drug usage (by other than the intended recipient) for federal employees and I was looking through the SF86 and saw that all drug use and purchasing questions go back 7 years. Counseling or treatment for alcohol use c. This is much more difficult to mitigate and what the advice given to you is based on. S. -Guideline H: Drug use, two uses of cocaine while holding a clearance. Sooner or later you will require a new SF86 They were re-cleared. Use of Alcohol. aeufv awke grsr azvpb cfpgbu uiiq fbnsr htwkrjco abl giwa