Which form is used for Low Risk, nonsensitive positions?

• A. SF 86
• B. SF 85P
• C. SF 85
• D. SF 52

Answer: (C)

In suitability adjudications, the form chosen matches the level of position risk. For low-risk, nonsensitive roles, agencies use a basic background questionnaire that gathers essential personal and history information to assess general suitability without a full security or public-trust review. This purpose is exactly what the Standard Form 85 provides, making it the right choice for these positions. It focuses on core items like identity, employment history, education, and basic personal conduct—enough to screen for suitability without involving the deeper disclosures required for more sensitive work.

The other forms are tied to higher levels of review: one is used for positions that involve national security clearances, another for public-trust roles requiring a more extensive background check, and the last is a personnel-action form not intended for background investigations.