What to know about the new CMS rules for 2027

New ACA enrollment requirements are on their way. The details from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are still coming together. So getting a handle on them now means you’ll be ahead when plan year 2027 rolls around.

Here’s a clear look at what we know right now.

What’s changing for plan year 2027?

CMS is introducing two big changes to agent-assisted ACA enrollments.

Here’s what’s happening:

Agent authorization: Before you can access or modify a client's application, they will need to authorize you first. This will be required for all agent-assisted enrollments.
Identity proofing: Many clients will be required to go through a verification process to confirm their identity before enrolling.

What exactly is identity proofing?

Identity proofing verifies a client’s identity. It's a security measure designed to ensure proper enrollments.

What the new process looks like

The upcoming CMS update applies the identify verification requirements to certain client risk profiles that enroll with a broker. Clients will be able to confirm who they are on the Orchard platform directly through secure, CMS-approved partners like:

ID.me
Experian

When will clients need this extra check?

It won't happen on every single application. But you'll see identity proofing pop up with certain client profiles during the enrollment window.

These clients include:

New applicants to the ACA marketplace
Clients with net premiums $30 or less

Critical steps to prepare now

It will be critical for you to prepare ahead of Open Enrollment 2027. Here are some steps you can take to ensure smooth process:

Ensure your clients’ have the most up-to-date contact information, including email address and phone number
Check to make sure you are receiving Orchard email updates into your inbox

Getting a step ahead of 2027 with Orchard

Compliance shifts aren’t fun. And yes, they can feel like a hurdle when you’re trying to get things done. That’s why Orchard is staying on top of all CMS updates, so we can help you go big when the open enrollment rush hits.

Here’s what that looks like for our brokers:

Compliance is kept simple so you can stay focused on looking after your clients.
Clear, real-time updates as new information from CMS becomes available.
Smooth workflows that make enrollment straightforward.

The big picture

When things change, your clients need your confident guidance more than ever. And that’s great news for you! Orchard is here to keep things clear and bright, so you can focus on doing what you do best.

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