This is my first application for a TS clearance. I left info off my FS86 regarding past drug use while I was in college. I know I’m an imbecile for lying on the form. I get the point that the entire process is to determine one’s truthfulness and lying on the form is the dumbest thing one can do. Anyway, the clearance is for a private sector gov’t contractor job. I haven’t yet scheduled the follow up interview, and i’m wondering if I’d be better off withdrawing my application and apply in the future with a new FS86, or if I should go through with the confrontational interview, tell the truth and hope for the best?
No. The follow up interview has not been scheduled. I’m supposed to set it up today. I was planning to begin the interview by coming clean on the drugs. Yes, the drug use was less than 2 years ago.
Ok, you are on the right path. Bring up the unlisted issue when you sit down with the investigator. The first interview is not necessarily a confrontational interview. It’s a chance for anyone to correct information on the SF86, to provide additional information and to resolve listed issues. It’s also the time to bring up the stuff you failed to list. Be prepared to fully discuss, ie, what, when, with who, where, why, etc. You will also need to explain why you did not list it.
Tell the truth is always the best advice. If you decide to not tell the truth, and are cleared, you will have to make certain that your lies stay consistent every time you have a reinvestigation.