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OPM.gov / Suitability / Suitability Adjudications

Suitability Adjudications

Overview

Under title 5, Code of Federal Regulations, part 731 (5 CFR 731) OPM and agencies with delegated authority, can make suitability determinations and take suitability actions in cases involving covered positions that are subject to investigation. Positions covered by 5 CFR 731 are those in the competitive service, those in the excepted service where the incumbent can be noncompetitively converted to the competitive service, or a career appointment to the Senior Executive Service. The subject to investigation requirements are described at 5 CFR 731.104. Under 5 CFR 731, if an unfavorable suitability determination is made, the following actions may be applicable: cancellation of eligibility; removal; cancellation of reinstatement eligibility; and debarment.

The Suitability Adjudications office of OPM's SuitEA, handles those cases in which OPM has retained jurisdiction to make a suitability determination and take a suitability action. The office is also available to assist agencies with matters related to suitability adjudications. Our phone number is 202-599-0090.

The Suitability Adjudications office also handles requests to pass over preference eligible with a 30% or more compensable disability when the referral is for reasons based on conduct.  This office also handles requests to object to an Administrative Law Judge applicant when the basis is conduct.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Information Requirements for Suitability Referrals to OPM

How to make:

  • Referrals for Applicant Suitability Review
  • Referrals Based on Agency-Conducted Investigations
  • Referrals on OPM Conducted Investigations
  • Requests Based upon Conduct to Pass over a Preference Eligble with a 30% or More Compensable Disability or to object to an Administrative Law Judge applicant
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