FORT BENNING, Ga., (Aug. 28, 2013) -- All military, civilians and contractors working for the government must have at least a background investigation. All positions are not required to maintain a clearance, but if you are in a position or situation that requires a clearance you must remember your eligibility close date and submit your packet.
Who's responsible for updating your security clearance?
You are ultimately responsible for ensuring your clearance is updated. However, your security manager is the person that maintains a list of all personnel's clearance status. They should inform you and your commander on the month that the window opens for each individual to update their security clearance.
What happens if your security clearance is not updated?
If you do not update your clearance, which is called a periodic investigation, your access level will be downgraded to the next level until you provide an updated investigation. For example, if you have a Top Secret you are downgraded to a Secret or if you have a Secret, you are now downgraded to a Confidential, and you lose your SCI eligibility until the PR is finalized.
When should your security clearance be updated?
Your PR is required based upon the closure date of your eligibility access level. If you have a Top Secret, your PR is updated every five years, while for a Secret it is updated every 10 years. If you have SAP access, your PR is due every five years regardless of your eligibility level. You should begin your PR 30 days prior to the month of your closure date.
Where do you go to get assistance to update your clearance?
Your security manager will assist and set you up on the Personnel Security Investigation Portal. This system is used for beginning the process to allow you to upload your information on an SF86. If your security manger is not available, your security division liaison will assist you.
Why is it important to update your security clearance?
Maintaining your clearance is important for you to accomplish your unit's mission, attend certain training, get promoted to a more senior level, maintaining certain MOSs and for some reenlistments.
Smart tips from this information:
When you relocate to another duty station, report to your security manager. Always keep a copy of your last submitted SF86. Verify your PR date and put it on your calendar.
For additional information, please contact Security Division, DPTMS, 706-545-0254/9355.
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