Open Enrollment starts next Sunday, a little over a week away. Are ACA agents ready?
The last days leading up to Open Enrollment make a big difference in how smoothly the season runs. Between certification requirements, carrier updates, client outreach, and enrollment technology updates, there’s plenty to handle before the first application comes through.
Preparation now is the key to later success. Now is the time to finalize your processes, finish connecting with clients, and ensure you’re ready to guide consumers through another year of change to make health coverage decisions.
Here’s the list of “must-dos” before OEP starts.
Confirm Your 2027 Marketplace Certification
Before you start helping clients enroll, make sure your own credentials are in order. 2027 Marketplace registration and training for returning agents is open.
Now’s the time to confirm your registration is active. No new agents can register until at least February 2027, so now’s the time to identify and fix any problems so you can sell when OEP starts.
Double-Check Carrier Appointments and 2027 Plans
Check your carrier appointments, state licenses, and the products you offer. Make sure you know the carriers in your markets and if their provider networks, benefits, or plans have changed.
You should focus on carrier appointments and existing contracts; the availability of the 2027 plan by county; provider networks and prescription drug coverage; and commission schedules and carrier-specific enrollment requirements. The goal is to identify the main competitors in your current portfolio and determine whether you need to include any of these plans.
If you want to add any of these plans, start and complete the process immediately to finish as quickly as possible. Know what you can sell and where before clients start asking questions.
Get Ahead of Client Renewals
Your existing book of business deserves attention before your prospect list. You should already know clients who may need additional help this enrollment season, particularly those experiencing household changes, income fluctuations, potential coverage disruptions, or needing to provide additional documentation to meet new CMS ACA requirements.
Quick conversations with them should already be underway to uncover important details that affect eligibility and plan selection. Encourage clients to review their expected 2027 household income, family size, preferred doctors, and all 2027 healthcare needs.
Confirm You Know the Enrollment Compliance Changes
Be sure you know the 2027 ACA requirements for identity checks and the documents needed for CSR and premium subsidies. Now is also a good time to check your marketing materials, enrollment steps, and record-keeping.
Having a consistent process protects clients, helps you stay compliant, and avoids unnecessary delays.
Test Your Enrollment Technology Before You Need It
Few things are more frustrating than discovering a technology problem while a client is waiting to use it. Take time to access your enrollment platforms, carrier portals, quoting tools, and customer relationship management (CRM) system.
Test that your passwords, security, compliance, and tech support updates are complete. If you use an Enhanced Direct Enrollment (EDE) platform, check its latest enrollment and authorization steps.
A 15-minute technology check today could prevent a much longer interruption during OEP.
Prepare Clients for 2027 Plan Cost Changes
Higher costs are everywhere right now, so explain any cost differences your client is seeing compared to the current year. Use 2027 estimates for CSR and monthly premium subsidy calculations.
Remind clients they need to provide accurate income estimates to meet new government requirements. Compare total coverage costs, not just the monthly premium amount.
Lower premium plans may not be the best option for someone who often sees specialists or needs prescriptions.
Your Outreach Plan Should Be Complete
The best time to start communicating with clients is now, before they’re overwhelmed with enrollment reminders. Your plans for email campaigns, text messages, appointment scheduling, and renewal follow-ups should be complete.
Simple messages work, so tell clients important enrollment dates, such as the beginning of OEP (November 1), the deadline for January 1, 2027 coverage (December 15), and the end of OEP (January 15, 2027). Tell them what information they need for enrolling and how to book time with you.
Existing clients, new prospects, and people with changing coverage needs should be divided into separate groups for the different messages they require. Just make sure your communications follow applicable consent, privacy, and Marketplace marketing requirements.
Important Agent Dates to Remember
Remember, in addition to the key dates above, your milestone dates are November 23, 2026, when Thanksgiving week begins, and December 21, 2026, when Christmas week begins. Also remember that the enrollments you complete between December 16 and January 15 will begin coverage on February 1, 2027, provided the first premium is paid.
State-based Marketplaces may have different schedules, so check the deadlines for each one you serve.
A Strong OEP Starts Before the First Enrollment
A successful Open Enrollment season starts with good preparation. When you have your certifications done, carrier information organized, technology working, and clients informed, you can spend more time helping people make confident choices.
This coming week is your last chance to get organized, avoid surprises, and build momentum before enrollment starts. The more you prepare now, the more time you’ll have for your clients later.
The Agility Difference
Agility’s ACA experts are here to brainstorm with all ACA agents on the best ways to finish your OEP preparations. The team is ready to discuss ACA options in your area, as well as all ancillary plan options for your 2027 ACA health coverage portfolio.
You can call (866) 590-9771 or email support@enrollinsurance.com for immediate assistance from the ACA team. If you have questions or want to talk to our Medicare, CHOICE, Group, life, or ancillary experts, reach out to our dedicated Producer Support at this same phone number or email address.
We can add you to our weekly email list for tips and updates. Let Agility help you build your skills and discover new opportunities.
