How often must security clearance holders undergo reinvestigation for Top Secret clearance?

Holders of a Top Secret clearance are required to undergo reinvestigation every five years. This policy is established to ensure that individuals who have access to classified information remain eligible for such access. The five-year reinvestigation cycle allows security officials to evaluate any changes in the individual's personal, professional, and financial circumstances that could affect their trustworthiness and reliability.

Reinvestigation helps in maintaining the integrity of the clearance process, ensuring that potential risks are regularly assessed and managed. The use of this interval is based on a combination of factors, including the nature of the information accessed and the potential consequences of unauthorized disclosure. Regular updates help mitigate risks, thereby enhancing national security and fostering a culture of accountability within organizations that handle sensitive information.