Statement of Reasons
The Statement of Reasons (SOR) is a document given to individuals when they are denied security clearance by the Department of Defense (DoD). The Statement of Reasons contains allegations against the individual denied security clearance. Essentially, these allegations are the reasons that security clearance was denied. These allegations are developed as a result of the information provided on the application for security clearance along with information discovered through investigative processes.
During the course of an individual's job, the individual may be tasked with handling sensitive information. In order to determine that the individual is trustworthy and responsible enough to have access to this information, the individual will have to undergo security clearance procedures. The individual will complete an application for security clearance, and the DoD will determine whether or not the individual is an acceptable security risk. This determination is made using the information submitted on the application and information obtained through other investigative procedures. When the security clearance is denied, a Statement of Reasons will be sent to the individual for review.
The individual will be given the opportunity to refute the allegations made against them in the Statement of Reasons. Individuals attempting to answer these allegations should retain the services of a qualified security clearance attorney. An attorney can help the individual prepare satisfactory and truthful answers in response to the Statement of Reasons allegations. A skilled attorney will be well-versed in DoD security guidelines and can provide advice and guidance throughout the appeals process.