Enrollment
How to resolve ACA data matching issues (DMIs) for your clients
By the QuoteDeck team · Updated · 2 min read
The short answer
A data matching issue, also called an inconsistency, happens when information on a Marketplace application does not match government records. The client has to upload documents, such as a tax return, W-2 or pay stubs for income, before the deadline in their notice. The best fix is prevention: enter an income estimate the client can document.
What a data matching issue is
When information on a Marketplace application does not match the records the Marketplace checks, HealthCare.gov calls it a data matching issue or inconsistency, and the client has to submit documents to confirm their information.
- Household income
- Citizenship
- Immigration status
- Social Security Number
- American Indian or Alaska Native status
- Not having qualifying job-based coverage
- Not having Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE, Veterans health care, Medicare or Peace Corps coverage
Income documents HealthCare.gov accepts
Income documents should show a yearly amount that closely matches the yearly income on the application.
- Federal or state tax return (1040, with Schedule 1 if filed)
- W-2 or 1099 forms
- Pay stubs
- Self-employment records, such as a Schedule C or a recent profit and loss statement
- Social Security benefits letter
- Unemployment benefits letter
- A written explanation, if none of the above apply
How to resolve one
- Read the notice with the client and note the deadline and exactly what is being questioned.
- Gather the document that best matches what was entered on the application.
- Upload it through the client’s HealthCare.gov account or your enrollment platform. For income documents that do not fit a listed type, choose Other.
- Put a follow-up on your calendar before the deadline to confirm the issue is cleared.
QuoteDeck’s CRM keeps a follow-up on each client record, so a document deadline does not get lost during Open Enrollment.
Frequently asked questions
What is a data matching issue on HealthCare.gov?
It happens when information on a Marketplace application does not match the records the Marketplace checks. The client must submit documents to confirm the information.
What documents prove income for a Marketplace DMI?
A tax return, W-2 or 1099, pay stubs, self-employment records such as a Schedule C or profit and loss statement, a Social Security or unemployment benefits letter, or a written explanation if none apply.
How do clients send DMI documents?
By uploading them through their HealthCare.gov account. For income documents that do not fit a listed type, they choose Other on the upload screen.
Sources
Checked on October 16, 2026. Rules change, so confirm with the source and your carriers.
This guide is general information for licensed insurance professionals, not legal or compliance advice. Follow CMS, state and carrier requirements that apply to you.
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