I am posting here because the questions I have always get banned on other sites like Reddit on the /r/securityclearance sub and others, especially when the word "polygraph" comes up.

Several months ago I received a conditional job offer from a big company but I have heard nothing since.  The job requires TS/SCI with a CI poly.  I have a few questions here which I have numbered so if you can answer each that will be great.

1)  I have not heard anything for many months since I submitted the SF86.  Does the polygraph always come first or is there a chance the investigators have already started my background check?   

2) They had me submit the SF86 via postal mail paper copies filled out (via typed on computer) instead of the e-Qip.  The company reiterated that I was to postal mail in the SF86 forms and not send them electronically.  Usually the DOD does eQip but this company said that the "customer" wants the paper forms. What does this mean; could the "customer" be a spy agency? 

3) I am currently abroad but will be back in the U.S. within a few months.  Can anything with a clearance happen while I am outside of the U.S, or must they wait until I am back in the U.S. to start the process?

4) I have foreign travel, once lost a job due to a failed poly, and have a misdemeanor (not related to sex, drugs, or alcohol).  All this happened about 10 years ago and I have had no other issues since. Do you think this is an instant disqualifier?

5) Is there a backlog in clearances or are they just running behind?  I have heard crickets since I submitted my SF86 forms.

I welcome all responses, subjective and objective.

- Juice