Background Checks and Security Clearances
Every person hired for a federal job must undergo a background investigation to ensure that they are “reliable, trustworthy, of good conduct and character, and loyal to the United States.” This is an important and lengthy part of the process. Find out what questions you will need to answer here.
Familiarize yourself with the forms
To initiate a background investigation, your sponsoring agency will ask you to complete one or more of these forms. Most nominees will be asked to submit the Questionnaire for National Security Positions (SF 86) and other nominees to submit the Questionnaire for Public Trust Positions (SF 85P). It may take weeks to gather your records and complete, and longer if you have significant foreign travel. Get started early!
Questionnaire for National Security Positions (SF 86) Questionnaire for Public Trust Positions (SF 85P) Supplemental Questionnaire for Selected Positions (SF 85P-S)Considering legal assistance to complete your vetting forms?
Learn moreFROM THE PODCAST
Robert Rizzi on Honesty and Nominations
Listen to the full podcast episode
Robert Rizzi on Disqualification Rules Regarding Marijuana
WEBINAR
An Overview of Vetting Forms: What Aspiring Political Appointees Should Know
Download the slide deck