Does filling a bankruptcy protection hurt your chances of obtainning a security clearance?
Not necessarily. The most important factors when you are trying to get a clearance and finances are an issue it to be honest on your application and that you have either taken steps to resolve your delinquent debts or you have a plan to do so. For some people, bankruptcy is the only option and it is one way of resolving debt. To the best of my knowledge, adjudicators don't look favorably on someone who totally disregards their debt or someone who isn't honest about it. If you have filed for bankruptcy in the last 7 years, you will have to go through a special interview in which you will be given an opportunity to provide details as to what factors contributed to your delinquent debt (outstanding medical bills due to no insurance, periods of unemployment, etc). I've interviewed many people with delinquent debts or past bankruptcies that did get a clearance but there are no guarantees. Depending on your circumstances, you should have a shot though. I have heard that some people have trouble getting an interim clearance when they have financial issues – depends on your employer.
