9 | The Washington Center
• Demonstrated loyalty to the United States
• Compliance with laws and regulations
• Limited foreign influence or preference
• Stable employment and residence history
• Appropriate handling of sensitive information
Negative Factors:
• Dishonesty or lack of candor
• Foreign preference or divided loyalties
• Financial irresponsibility or unexplained wealth
• Criminal conduct
• Current illegal drug use
• Alcohol abuse
• Mental health issues affecting judgment
• Excessive foreign contacts without disclosure
• Security violations
Guide to Completing the SF-86
The Standard Form 86 (SF-86) is the Questionnaire for National Security Positions. It's comprehensive, time-
consuming, and requires absolute honesty. Here's how to prepare:
What the SF-86 Covers
Personal Information (Past 10 Years)
• All addresses where you've lived
• Schools attended
• Employment history (including unemployment periods)
• References who have known you in different contexts
Foreign Contacts & Activities
• Foreign nationals you have close or continuing contact with
• All foreign travel (dates, locations, purposes)
• Foreign business interests or financial holdings
• Foreign government contacts
Financial Information
• Credit history and current debts
• Bankruptcies, foreclosures, or liens
• Delinquent taxes or child support
• Gambling issues or financial problems
