4 Tips on Applying for a Security Clearance

FacebookXPinterestEmailEmailEmailShare
Signing employment application

Whether you're filling one out for the first time or returning to it again, SF-86 is a document most clearance-holders dread. SF-86 is long, detailed, and can be very frustrating. It's important to make the process as easy as you can; you don't want to just make the form less of a headache, it's critical that you keep it error-free. Clearancejobs.com recently put up four excellent tips on filling out SF-86, so check them out below and the ordeal will seem much less daunting.

Related: Search for Security Clearance jobs.

1) Prepare: Information on SF-86 is widely available, so make sure you figure out what documents you're going to need before filling it out. If you don't gather all of your documents beforehand, a process that could take a few hours might instead take a few days. Keep information in mind like whether or not you've flown out of the country recently, all of your previous residences, and a list of your former bosses.

2) It's Okay to Estimate Dates: Unless you have a memory like a steel trap or happen to keep a  detailed record of your life, you're most likely going to forget specific dates. Understand that it's okay to estimate this information: even if you don't remember the day, the month will suffice. Just remember not to lie – the goal is to be as accurate as possible, so don't try to fill in the blanks or fabricate information because it feels right.

Related: Does your resume pass the 6-second test? Get a FREE assessment.

3) Read Carefully: When you're reading each question, make sure you know precisely what it's asking you and answer only that question. Pay attention to words about timing and phrases like, "have you ever," or, "in the past 7 years." It might be frustrating to mince words, but it'll save you and the OPM a lot of time if you answer questions correctly.

4) Keep Hardcopies of All Records: Never assume that information just happens to be on hand or is floating around somewhere on your computer. If you keep all important documents in one place, your preparation will go a lot more smoothly and your answers will be much more accurate.

Related: For the latest veteran jobs postings around the country, visit the Military.com Job Search section.

The Next Step: Find the Right Veteran Job

Whether you want to polish up your resume, find veteran job fairs in your area, or connect with employers looking to hire veterans, Military.com can help. Sign up for a free Military.com membership to have job postings, guides and advice, and more delivered directly to your inbox.

Story Continues

Most Recent Security Clearance Job Posts

  • Senior Quality Engineer
    The Computer Merchant, LTD. - McLeansville, NC, 27301 - Job Title : Senior Quality Engineer Location: McLeansville, NC Wage Range: 40-43 depending on years of experience and quali...
  • JIRA-CONFLUENCE DEVELOPER
    VSolvit LLC - Norco, CA, 92860 - ***SECRET SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIRED*** Job Summary We are seeking a skilled Jira-Confluence Developer to join our team in supporting the ...
  • Systems Engineer
    DCS Corp - Sterling Heights, MI - This is an opportunity to join the fast-paced world of engineering next generation combat vehicles for the US Army. Working as a DCS employee co-...
  • Manufacturing Material Requisitioner
    Leidos - Huntsville, AL, 35806 - Description This position is responsible for planning, quoting, and requisitioning all material components for manufacturing. Duties may include...
  • Mid Level Cyber Systems Engineer
    Peraton - San Diego, CA - Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Mid Level Cyber Software Engineer to support our Atlantis Program contract at the Naval Information Warfare Center ...
View More