ACA Shoppers Face Higher Costs and Stricter ID Checks

Health insurance shoppers face a complex start to the 2027 open enrollment period, which begins November 1 in most states. The season arrives with higher premiums, new identity verification steps, and a shrinking pool of available brokers. These changes follow the expiration of enhanced subsidies at the end of 2025, a shift that policy experts say caused millions of people to drop coverage earlier this year.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services introduced stricter rules to combat fraud, primarily affecting consumers who use agents in the federal marketplace. This marketplace serves 29 states. Users of the federal platform must now obtain a one-time confirmation code via text, email, or phone call to authorize an agent. Those classified as high-risk, including first-time applicants or those switching brokers, must also verify their identity through a third party such as Experian. Joshua Brooker, an insurance agency owner in Pennsylvania, noted that this scrutiny targets individuals moving states or using new brokers, who are more likely to be impersonated.

A new rule further complicates the process for small agencies. The federal government issued a moratorium in September that prevents brokers newly registered for 2027 from assisting with enrollments until at least February. This leaves many new agents unable to work during the peak season. Jason Fine, a Florida brokerage owner, said the move may unintentionally benefit large call centers that maintain year-round staff. Agent groups have pushed back, with the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals filing a lawsuit on October 15 over the directive.

Costs remain a central concern for consumers. Premiums for 2027 are expected to rise by 15%, a double-digit increase that is slightly lower than the 26% jump seen last year. While subsidies for 2027 will be less generous than the enhanced rates that expired in 2025, they remain available for households earning up to four times the federal poverty level. For a single person, that threshold is set at $63,840. Anne Petry, an insurance owner in Forsyth, Illinois, warned that affordability will be the biggest issue, predicting a breaking point for many buyers.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act also changes who qualifies for help. It removes subsidy eligibility for many lawfully present immigrants, including H-1B visa holders, refugees, and asylum seekers. Only green-card holders, specific Cuban and Haitian immigrants, and citizens of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, or Palau remain eligible for subsidies under the new rules.

Experts advise shoppers to avoid letting their plans auto-renew. Louise Norris, a health policy analyst, recommended comparing premiums and coverage levels, as deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums change annually. The out-of-pocket maximum for individual plans will rise 13% to $12,000 in 2027, while family coverage caps will hit $24,000. Consumers should review their options to ensure they are not missing cheaper alternatives from new or existing insurers.