Need a U.S. Government Security Clearance?
Why Our Security Clearance Specialists are the Best
If you need a security clearance from the U.S. Government, you’re in the right place. Our expertise in federal security clearance levels, requirements, and how to get approved saves you time and avoids delays with the application process and ongoing compliance.
At Federal Contracting Center, our clients include a range of people required to have U.S. Government security clearances, including defense contractors, military service members, and any federal employee in an intelligence-related position.
What Is a Federal Security Clearance?
Some U.S. Government departments and agencies handle classified information, and people working in those areas are required to have security clearances. To obtain a clearance, you must pass a comprehensive background check.
- Criminal history
- Financial background review
- Foreign contact screening
The vast majority of federal background investigations for security clearances are conducted by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA). Still, the Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) and the FBI may also be involved in some instances.
The 4 Levels of Security Clearance
- Confidential: the most common and lowest level of security clearance allows you access to information that could cause harm to national security if divulged. Required for many administrative and support services personnel. Needs reinvestigation/renewal every 15 years.
- Secret: requires a more comprehensive background investigation than the confidential level, and applies to classified information of grave consequence if leaked. Required for military personnel, intelligence officials, and defense contractors. Needs renewal every 10 years.
- Top Secret: as its name implies, top-secret security clearance applies to people handling highly sensitive U.S. Government data and information. This level is reserved for high-ranking government officials, intelligence officers, and national security professionals. Needs renewal every 5 years.
- SCI and SAP: Sensitive Compartmentalized Information (SCI) and Special Access Programs (SAP) require specific approvals, routine monitoring, and security training. Grants access to intelligence-related data or covert operations and classified defense programs.
Getting a Security Clearance: The Requirements
The requirements for how to get a security clearance are specific, and following them carefully is essential, especially if a job or project is on hold until you get it.
Step #1: Have a Sponsoring Employer
You must have a sponsoring employer to apply for a Security Clearance. When you apply, a U.S. Government agency or approved federal contractor must be your sponsor. You must be going for a position requiring classified access.
Step #2: Go Through a DCSA Background Investigation
The DCSA handles background checks for security clearances and reviews criminal history, if any, plus a complete financial background check looking at credit score, debt history, and any bankruptcies. It also checks for past drug use, prior employment, and education, and interviews with people who know you, such as colleagues and former employers.
Step #3: Decisions and Approval
Findings of the background check are reviewed against federal guidelines and focus on past conduct and financial responsibility. Some applicants are asked to provide additional information. Applying for a security clearance does not guarantee approval, and some are denied. There is an appeals process if you are denied and feel you should qualify.
Step #4: Keeping Your Security Clearance Active
Once you are approved, there are requirements for keeping your security clearance active. There are reporting requirements for foreign travel and contact with foreign nationals, as well as financial actions such as large debts, taxes due, and bankruptcy. Continuous evaluation programs include monitoring for security risks in real-time, with changes to security clearance if indicated.
Dealing with Classified Information Responsibly
Once you’ve earned a security clearance, you must correctly handle classified information to maintain your privileges.
One of the most important things is to avoid security violations for mishandling information. Many of the requirements are common-sense actions. They include discussing classified information only in secure locations, properly storing sensitive documents, and never using personal smartphones or computers to discuss classified information.
Always be mindful of cyberthreats.
Strictly following IT security protocols is essential, including using only government-approved communication devices, staying on secure networks, and staying current with security training requirements. Compliance is essential because failure to do so can cause the temporary or permanent loss of your security clearance.
What Happens If I Change Jobs?
Your security clearance may be eligible for transfer or to be honored reciprocally without restarting the background check if you move to a new government job or a different position with a defense contractor.
One caveat is your new department or agency may have additional or different requirements, and if so, you will need to meet them. Inquire in advance about the requirements to avoid complications or delays.
Interested in Our Security Clearance Assistance?
Contact Our Consultants Today
Working with our security clearance experts at Federal Contracting Center is best because it puts you in the hands of seasoned professionals who can help whether you’re an individual or a business needing assistance.
- ✓ Information about security clearance requirements
- ✓ Guidance for how to prepare and file your application
- ✓ Support service for maintaining your clearance
Our federal contracting experts work with U.S. Government departments and agencies every day and are up to speed on new and longstanding requirements for security clearances. We help our clients quickly and efficiently navigate requirements for their business with the federal government.
