The implementing regulations for the Exchanges and QHP issuers, 45 CFR Parts 155 and 156, contain provisions that mandate reporting and data collections necessary to ensure that QHP issuers are meeting the requirements of the Affordable Care Act. CMS believes the one-time collection of data in this template necessitated by the COVID-19 emergency is supported by current agency requirements for enrollment reconciliation that are already included in these rules. Collection of this information allows CMS to comply with specific IRS regulations within the context of the flexibility we are offering QHP issuers in response to the COVID emergency.
To ensure proper allocation of Advance Payments of the Premium Tax Credit (APTC) to the portion of premium that covers essential health benefits, CMS will adjust premium and APTC amounts in its enrollment data. CMS will also report to the IRS the premium and APTC changes in the issuer-submitted template for purposes of reconciliation to premium tax credits.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is requesting that an information collection requirement associated with the Temporary Policy on 2020 Premium Credits Associated with the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency be processed in accordance with the implementing regulations of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 at 5 CFR 1320.13(a)(2)(i). CMS will be unable to update CMS systems for IRS reporting purposes in time for tax season if the normal, non-emergency clearance procedures are followed.
Specifically, we are requesting emergency approval for information collection requirements (ICRs) related to enrollment reconciliation (45 CFR 155.400(d) and 156.265(f)). In accordance with 5 CFR 1320.13(a)(2)(i), we believe that public harm is reasonably likely to ensue if the normal clearance procedures are followed. The use of normal clearance procedures will not allow CMS to update its enrollment data timely and is therefore is reasonably likely to prevent accurate and timely distribution of 1095-A tax forms to affected consumers. Health Insurance Exchanges furnish Form 1095-A to individuals to allow them to reconcile the credit on their returns with advance payments of the premium tax credit (APTC) and file an accurate tax return.
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US Code: 45 USC 156.80(d) Name of Law: Affordable Care Act
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.