Why might an interim facility security clearance be granted instead of a final facility security clearance?

An interim facility security clearance is often granted when final determinations regarding security clearance statuses are still underway. This mechanism allows an organization to begin working on certain classified contracts or projects without having to wait for the final clearance, which might take additional time due to extensive background checks and thorough evaluations. The interim clearance provides a temporary solution, enabling the organization to access sensitive information and carry out its duties while the full clearance process is being completed.

This approach is particularly important in situations where immediate access to classified information is essential to meet deadlines or fulfill contract requirements. Therefore, the rationale behind granting an interim clearance is directly linked to the pending status of the final determination, making it a practical solution in the context of national security and operational efficiency.