ACA Open Enrollment Opens as Premiums Rise and New ID Checks Take Effect

Open enrollment for 2027 health coverage began on November 1 in most states, launching a period of higher premiums and new identity verification rules for shoppers. Idaho, Connecticut, and Massachusetts opened their portals earlier this month. The period marks a shift in how the federal marketplace operates, with increased scrutiny on both consumers and the agents who assist them.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services introduced new protocols to reduce fraud in the federal marketplace, which serves 29 states. These rules do not apply to state-based exchanges. All consumers using an agent must now authorize a specific representative via a one-time confirmation code sent by text, email, or automated phone call. Returning consumers with outdated contact information must update their profiles on healthcare.gov before an agent can act on their behalf.

The agency has also designated certain applicants as high-risk, requiring them to verify their identity through a third-party service like Experian. This group includes first-time applicants, those changing states, consumers switching agents, and individuals paying monthly premiums of $30 or less. Joshua Brooker, an insurance agency owner in Pennsylvania, noted that up to one in five consumers may face these extra steps. He warned that some people may drop out of the process entirely if the hurdles become too difficult.

A September CMS rule has created uncertainty for the agent workforce. The agency placed a moratorium on brokers who are new to offering ACA coverage. Agents not registered in 2026 cannot help with 2027 enrollments until at least February. Jason Fine, a Florida brokerage owner, said this limits his ability to hire new staff before the open enrollment window closes. He estimated that larger call centers may benefit from the shift because they maintain year-round staffs of 25 to 40 people.

Two industry groups have filed lawsuits challenging the moratorium. The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals sued on October 15, arguing the rule unfairly targets 19,000 agents. Health Agents for America filed suit on October 21 for a temporary restraining order. Ronnell Nolan, president of the latter group, stated that agencies have paid thousands of dollars to train new agents who are now unable to work.

Premiums are expected to rise by 15% for 2027, a lower increase than the 26% seen last year. Enhanced subsidies expired at the end of 2025, meaning most shoppers will pay more than they did last year, though subsidies remain for many. The out-of-pocket maximum for individual plans will increase by 13% to $12,000, while family plans will see the cap rise to $24,000. New limits also strip subsidy eligibility from many lawfully present immigrants, including those with H-1B visas, refugee status, or pending green-card applications.

Stacey Pogue, a research fellow at Georgetown University, advised consumers to reach out to agents early. She noted that slots may fill faster due to the reduced number of available brokers. Louise Norris, a health policy analyst, urged shoppers to compare plans rather than allowing policies to auto-renew, as costs and coverage details change annually. The next step in the process is for consumers to finalize their selections before the enrollment period ends.