CEC Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. What is 'reconciliation' in the context of the Advance Premium Tax Credit? → Comparing APTC received to the actual credit owed based on final income
2. What is the main principle of ethical client service? → Serving the client with honesty and transparency
3. What documentation may be required to verify a SEP triggered by marriage? → Marriage certificate
4. Which verification scenario requires the Marketplace to check DHS immigration records through the Federal Data Services Hub? → A lawfully present non-citizen claiming eligibility based on immigration status
5. Which metal tier plans are eligible for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR)? → Silver plans only
6. What is one consequence of breaching client confidentiality? → Potential legal penalties and loss of certification
7. Which document is MOST commonly used to verify current wages from an employer during a Marketplace application? → Recent pay stubs from the past 30 days
8. How long does a Marketplace applicant typically have to submit documentation to resolve a data inconsistency after receiving notice? → 90 days
9. What documentation is typically needed for program eligibility verification? → Proof of income, residency, and identity
10. What is the Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC)? → A subsidy paid in advance to lower monthly Marketplace premiums
11. Which federal agency's records does the Marketplace primarily use to verify Social Security numbers? → Social Security Administration (SSA)
12. Which type of SEP applies to a consumer who permanently moves to a new area that offers different Marketplace plans? → Change in Residence SEP
13. What type of income documentation is required for an applicant who receives Social Security benefits? → An SSA benefit verification letter (award letter) or SSA-1099
14. How should you assist a client who does not speak English fluently? → Use professional translation or interpretation services
15. What happens to an enrollee's Marketplace coverage if they fail to resolve an income inconsistency within the required timeframe? → Their eligibility is redetermined based on the data sources the Marketplace has on file
16. Why is it important to know open enrollment dates? → To ensure timely and accurate enrollment
17. What is an Enrollment Counselor’s role during Special Enrollment Periods? → Help clients report life changes and apply
18. What should be done if a client is ineligible for any program? → Provide referrals and discuss next steps or appeals
19. For a self-employed applicant, which combination of documents BEST verifies annual income for Marketplace purposes? → Most recent federal tax return and a current profit/loss statement
20. At what Federal Poverty Level percentage do Cost-Sharing Reduction benefits phase out completely? → 250% FPL
21. What income range (as a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level) makes a consumer eligible for the Advance Premium Tax Credit? → 100–400% FPL
22. Which household event qualifies a consumer for a SEP related to household size changes? → Adoption of a child
23. What is considered personally identifiable information (PII)? → Social Security number and birthdate
24. A consumer who qualifies for Cost-Sharing Reductions must enroll in which metal tier to receive the benefit? → Silver
25. What is the first step in assisting a client with health coverage enrollment? → Verify identity and collect client information
26. What is one common reason an application might be delayed? → Missing or incorrect documentation
27. Which document is essential to verify income during enrollment? → Recent pay stub or tax return
28. What is a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) in the context of the Health Insurance Marketplace? → A time outside Open Enrollment when qualifying life events allow plan changes
29. What is the first step in assisting a client with health coverage enrollment? → Determine the client’s eligibility for various programs
30. Why must a counselor avoid conflicts of interest? → To ensure recommendations are fair and unbiased