Interim Clearance

[benjamin]

Can anyone explain what an "interim security clearance" is, assuming that
such a thing even exists. I applied for a Secret clearance some three months
ago. Right before I was laid-off a couple of weeks ago, I was told by my
former employer (a DOD contractor) that I had an interim clearance and that
this interim clearance was the same as the Secret clearance. Is there any
way I can check to see if I even have any clearance at all? I have no prior
experience with this type of business, so I'm kind of lost to the whole thing.
Seems a waste if it's true, as again I was laid-off anyway.

Thanks.