Many applicants believe that if they leave a job before their security clearance is finalized, the process simply "stops." In reality, quitting during an active investigation often results in a Loss of Jurisdiction (LOJ) status in your personnel file. In 2026, under the NBIS and Trusted Workforce 2.0 models, an LOJ can be a major barrier to future federal employment.
What is Loss of Jurisdiction (LOJ)?
Loss of Jurisdiction occurs when an agency stops the adjudication process because you no longer have a "need to know" (i.e., you left the job). While this sounds harmless, it leaves your security file in Limbo.
The "Red Flag" Status: If there were "red flags" (debt, drug use, foreign contacts) discovered during the investigation, they remain unadjudicated.
Reciprocity Block: A new employer or agency cannot grant you a "Crossover" clearance if your previous file is marked with an LOJ and unresolved concerns.
Why You Shouldn't "Wait and See"
If you left a position and now find that new employers are "passing" on your application due to your clearance status, you likely have an unresolved LOJ. This does not fix itself over time. > To clear an LOJ, a new sponsoring agency must be convinced to "request jurisdiction" and finish the adjudication. This is a complex legal and administrative process that requires:
Proactive Mitigation: Addressing the original concerns that caused the investigation to stall.
Liaising with Security Officers: Working with the new agency's FSO to ensure they have the documentation needed to pick up the investigation.
The SOR Response: If an SOR was issued before you left, that SOR must still be answered to clear your record.
Strategic Advice: Don't Quit Without a Plan
Before resigning from a position with a pending clearance, consult with a security clearance attorney. We can help you determine if your file has "derogatory information" that will haunt your next job search and develop a strategy to ensure your clearance remains Reciprocal.
If you require assistance with your security clearance, please reach out to the Security Clearance Professionals. You can contact us via phone at (904) 884-5891 or email at asya@securityclearancepro.com. We are here to help you.