ACA shoppers face tighter ID checks and premium hikes as enrollment opens
New identity verification rules and a broker moratorium complicate the 2027 sign-up period, while average premiums rise 15%.
By Lina Lewis ·
Open enrollment for Affordable Care Act health coverage began November 1 in most states. Idaho, Connecticut, and Massachusetts started earlier, while other markets allowed preliminary rate checks. Shoppers now face a mix of procedural hurdles and financial shifts for 2027 policies.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services introduced stricter identity requirements for consumers using agents in the federal marketplace, which serves 29 states. All consumers must obtain a one-time confirmation code to authorize a specific agent. Those deemed high-risk, including first-time applicants and those with monthly premiums of $30 or less, must verify their identity through a third party like Experian. Joshua Brooker, a Pennsylvania insurance agent, warned that up to one in five consumers might face these extra steps, potentially causing some to abandon the process.
CMS also issued a September rule placing a moratorium on newly registered brokers. Agents not registered with the federal marketplace in 2026 cannot assist with 2027 enrollments until at least February. Jason Fine, a Florida brokerage owner, said the rule aims to curb fraud but creates staffing shortages for small agencies. He noted that large call centers with year-round staffs may benefit from the change. Two agent groups filed lawsuits in October against the moratorium, arguing it unfairly targets thousands of new professionals.
Premiums are expected to rise by 15% on average, down from last year's 26% increase. This follows the expiration of enhanced subsidies at the end of 2025, which led to a drop in overall enrollment. Louise Norris, a health policy analyst, stated that affordability will likely remain similar for those who managed costs this year. However, households earning more than four times the federal poverty rate, such as $63,840 for a single person, lose subsidy eligibility entirely.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act also restricts subsidies for many lawfully present immigrants, including those with H-1B visas, temporary protected status, and pending green-card applications. Only green-card holders, certain Cuban and Haitian immigrants, and citizens of specific Pacific islands retain full access. Anne Petry, an Illinois insurance owner, identified affordability as the primary concern for clients facing these changes.
Experts advise consumers to compare plans rather than allowing automatic renewals. Out-of-pocket maximums are increasing by 13% in 2027, reaching $12,000 for individuals and $24,000 for families. With some insurers dropping coverage areas, shoppers should verify plan availability and costs early, as broker appointment slots may fill quickly due to the reduced number of eligible agents.
