CMS Adds Broker ID Checks, Moratorium Ahead of ACA Open Enrollment

As ACA open enrollment for 2027 coverage begins Nov. 1 in most states, CMS has issued new fraud-prevention rules affecting the federal marketplace, which serves 29 states. Consumers using agents must now get a one-time confirmation code to authorize enrollment changes, and those deemed "high-risk," including first-time applicants, state-switchers, or those with premiums under $30/month, must verify identity through a third party like Experian. CMS also imposed a moratorium barring brokers new to the federal marketplace in 2026 from assisting with 2027 enrollments until at least February, citing compliance concerns tied to newly registered agents. These changes follow the August cancellation of roughly 760,000 suspected improper enrollments and come alongside expiring enhanced subsidies, both expected to drive continued enrollment declines.