Verification of Social Security numbers and other related data through the exchange’s data services hub will be unavailable during that time as the Social Security Administration conducts required, regularly scheduled systems maintenance activities. While the SSA performs maintenance, people won’t be able to find out what coverage they qualify for through the site.
People who want coverage effective March 1 will need to sign up through the site prior to 3 p.m. EST Saturday. CMS has also set up a hotline (1-800-318-2596) for those who aren’t able to complete their enrollment before that time but still want coverage starting March 1. Those seeking coverage effective at a later date will be able to fill out applications but must save their progress and return on or after Feb. 18 to find out what they qualify for, pick a health plan and complete the enrollment process.
Since the federal health insurance exchange website launched last October, various technical issues have plagued HealthCare.gov. However, following repair efforts, the site could support 83,000 concurrent users as of Dec. 23, according to HHS.
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