What can happen to a security clearance holder if they fail to report a significant change in circumstances?

Failing to report a significant change in circumstances can lead to serious consequences for a security clearance holder, primarily because maintaining a clearance is predicated on the individual's reliability, trustworthiness, and eligibility. When a holder does not disclose important changes—such as legal issues, financial troubles, or changes in personal circumstances—it raises concerns about their integrity and judgment.

The potential for clearance suspension or revocation is significant because the underlying principle of personnel security is to ensure that individuals granted access to sensitive information continue to meet the established criteria for trustworthiness. When a security clearance holder withholds this type of information, it can create vulnerabilities that might endanger national security, prompting authorities to take action to mitigate that risk.

This proactive approach to security is an essential part of safeguarding classified information, and the continuity of a clearance relies heavily on the holder’s transparency regarding their personal and professional circumstances. Therefore, if a significant change is not reported, the likely outcomes include suspension or revocation of their security clearance, which is the primary mechanism for enforcing compliance with these standards.