The SF-86, also known as the Questionnaire for National Security Positions, is a comprehensive form used by the United States government to conduct background investigations for individuals who require access to classified information or who will be working in national security positions. One of the critical components of the SF-86 is the "Don't Contact" section, which allows applicants to specify individuals who should not be contacted during the investigation process.
Understanding the SF-86 Don’t Contact Section
The Don’t Contact section of the SF-86 is designed to protect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals who may be affected by the background investigation. Applicants may list individuals who should not be contacted, such as family members, friends, or colleagues, who may not be aware of the applicant’s application for a national security position or who may be sensitive to the investigation process.
It is essential to note that the Don't Contact section is not intended to be used to withhold information or to prevent investigators from contacting individuals who may have relevant information about the applicant. Rather, it is meant to be used in situations where contacting certain individuals may cause harm or undue stress to the applicant or others.
Guidelines for Completing the Don’t Contact Section
When completing the SF-86, applicants should carefully consider who they list in the Don’t Contact section. The following guidelines should be followed:
- Only list individuals who should not be contacted due to extraordinary circumstances. This may include individuals who are experiencing medical or financial difficulties, or those who may be affected by the investigation process in other significant ways.
- Do not list individuals who may have relevant information about the applicant. Investigators need to contact individuals who can provide information about the applicant's character, trustworthiness, and reliability.
- Be prepared to explain why certain individuals should not be contacted. Applicants may be asked to provide additional information or clarification about the individuals listed in the Don't Contact section.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Family Members | Applicants may list family members who should not be contacted due to sensitive or personal reasons. |
| Friends and Colleagues | Applicants may list friends and colleagues who should not be contacted due to the potential impact on their relationships or careers. |
| Others | Applicants may list other individuals who should not be contacted due to extraordinary circumstances, such as medical or financial difficulties. |
Consequences of Misusing the Don’t Contact Section
Misusing the Don’t Contact section can have significant consequences for applicants. If investigators determine that an applicant has intentionally withheld information or attempted to obstruct the investigation process, it may result in:
- Denial of clearance. The applicant may be denied clearance due to the lack of trustworthiness or reliability.
- Delays in the investigation process. The investigation process may be delayed or restarted if investigators determine that the applicant has provided incomplete or inaccurate information.
- Adverse actions. The applicant may face adverse actions, such as termination of employment or revocation of clearance, if it is determined that they have intentionally withheld information or obstructed the investigation process.
Key Points
- The Don't Contact section of the SF-86 is intended to protect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals who may be affected by the background investigation.
- Applicants should only list individuals who should not be contacted due to extraordinary circumstances.
- Listing individuals who may have relevant information about the applicant can result in delays or denial of clearance.
- Applicants should be prepared to explain why certain individuals should not be contacted.
- Misusing the Don't Contact section can have significant consequences, including denial of clearance, delays in the investigation process, and adverse actions.
Best Practices for Completing the SF-86
To ensure a smooth and efficient investigation process, applicants should follow best practices when completing the SF-86, including:
- Provide accurate and complete information. Applicants should ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete, including the Don't Contact section.
- Be prepared to explain any discrepancies or omissions. Applicants should be prepared to explain any discrepancies or omissions in the information provided.
- Cooperate fully with investigators. Applicants should cooperate fully with investigators and provide any additional information requested.
What is the purpose of the Don’t Contact section of the SF-86?
+The Don’t Contact section is intended to protect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals who may be affected by the background investigation.
Who should be listed in the Don’t Contact section?
+Applicants should only list individuals who should not be contacted due to extraordinary circumstances, such as family members, friends, or colleagues who may be sensitive to the investigation process.
What are the consequences of misusing the Don’t Contact section?
+Misusing the Don’t Contact section can result in denial of clearance, delays in the investigation process, and adverse actions, such as termination of employment or revocation of clearance.
