CACS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CACS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When can consumers enroll in a health insurance plan outside of the open enrollment period? → When they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
2. Which action should a CAC avoid when helping a consumer claim a SEP? → Submitting false qualifying event information to gain enrollment
3. Which of the following is NOT considered one of the 10 Essential Health Benefits that all Marketplace plans are required to cover? → Cosmetic surgery
4. What happens if an applicant fails to verify their immigration status within the required 90-day period after receiving a data matching notice? → The applicant's enrollment and any APTC may be terminated until resolved
5. Which IRS form is used to reconcile the Premium Tax Credit at tax filing? → Form 8962
6. When can a consumer apply for health coverage? → During the Open Enrollment Period or after a qualifying life event
7. What household income level generally qualifies a consumer for Cost-Sharing Reductions? → Up to 250% of the Federal Poverty Level
8. What is the primary purpose of the Premium Tax Credit (PTC) under the Affordable Care Act? → To help eligible individuals and families afford Marketplace health insurance premiums
9. What does Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) refer to? → Health insurance that meets ACA standards
10. When can CACs share a consumer’s personal information? → Only with the consumer's written consent or legal requirement
11. What is the Open Enrollment Period for Marketplace health plans? → November 1 – January 15
12. Who can help a consumer with the enrollment process? → Certified Application Counselors
13. How long does an applicant who qualifies for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) typically have to submit verification documents after enrolling? → 30 days
14. What does the Marketplace provide during Open Enrollment? → A period to enroll or make changes to health plans
15. Which of the following is a 'permanent' SEP available year-round regardless of a recent life event? → SEP for income below 150% FPL
16. What is the consequence for an APTC recipient who fails to resolve a data matching issue within the allotted timeframe? → Their advance premium tax credit and cost-sharing reductions may be terminated
17. What is the significance of income when enrolling? → It affects eligibility for financial assistance
18. How can CACs support consumers during open enrollment? → By helping consumers explore and apply for the coverage that fits their needs
19. To receive Cost-Sharing Reductions, which type of Marketplace plan must a consumer enroll in? → A Silver plan only
20. What is the primary electronic resource the Marketplace uses to verify an applicant's income during the application process? → Federal Data Services Hub connecting to IRS and SSA records
21. What is a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)? → A period triggered by a qualifying life event
22. How can CACs assist consumers after they have enrolled in a health plan? → They assist with plan use and post-enrollment questions
23. Which of the following would NOT be an acceptable document for verifying the identity of a Marketplace applicant? → A utility bill listing the applicant's name and address
24. Which of the following is NOT a qualifying life event for a Special Enrollment Period? → Turning 30 years old
25. Which income document is typically acceptable for verifying annual income for a salaried employee applying for Marketplace coverage? → Most recent W-2 form or recent pay stubs
26. A consumer gains a new dependent through adoption. Which SEP rule applies? → They have 60 days from the adoption date
27. Which program provides assistance with healthcare costs for people over age 65? → Medicare
28. How many days does a consumer typically have to enroll in a Marketplace plan after a qualifying life event triggers a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)? → 60 days
29. What is the primary purpose of Medicaid? → To help low-income individuals and families with healthcare needs
30. What type of information must CACs keep private? → All personally identifiable information (PII)