My most recent security clearance mistake

Last month I was ready to start a new project as a 2nd tier sub-contractor over at ODNI with a company called DigiFlight.​

I had interviewed with the prime (Peraton), sent over some security clearance paperwork, signed a 1099 consultant agreement with DigiFlight, and even received an EOD (Entrance on Duty) date.

Once I got the EOD date, which I assumed meant it was a done deal, I told my current prime that I was leaving in a few weeks and that I'd like to replace myself.

In fact, the only reason I took the new gig was so I could hire someone to replace myself and make more "passive" income from my new employee.

Here's what happened:

• My security clearance did not cross over from NGA to ODNI due to some waiver I had (probably a foreign national mother)
• The prime on my current project did NOT accept my candidate to replace me
• Once I learned my clearance bounced, I had to awkwardly ask the program manager if they still wanted me over at NGA (imagine quitting and then asking for your job back)
• The PM on my NGA project had already re-allocated some of my hours to other people on the contract, meaning I lost out on ~$10,000 in income

So, even after being in the 1099 game for seven years now, bad luck still happens and not all opportunities pan out.

Whether you're still trying to get your first 1099 project or your second or tenth, weird stuff will happen. That's okay and to be expected.

Do your best to take it in stride.