Identity Proofing and Verifications

As a MNsure-certified assister, you will likely encounter the need to help consumers to provide some form of proof (verification) before they can proceed to the next step. The areas where verification is frequently required are listed below.

Account Creation

Individual users must complete identity proofing to create an online account.

When creating a METS account a consumer may be required to verify information on their application that cannot be verified through electronic resources. Consumers needing to complete in-person identity verification must go to a deputy registrar’s office that offers manual identity verification services. Locations of these offices are available on LoginMN's support page. Consumers will need to bring a copy of the email they received along with required verification documents specified in the email.

Verifying Eligibility through METS and MN-EES

Verification documents are often required before processing changes to applications. 

METS Users

When such documents are needed in the METS system, consumers can find guidance by visiting the Identity Verification section in the FAQ on the LoginMN website.

MN-EES Users

When multiple documents are needed to verify a special enrollment period (SEP), combine them into one file before uploading them to MNsure. These may include screenshots, photos, letters, or other documents that help validate the qualifying life event (QLE).

MNsure systems accept PNG, JPG, JPEG, PDF, DOC, DOCX, XLS, and XLSX files, with a maximum file size of 5 MB. It is not necessary to convert a combined file to PDF as long as the file type is accepted and the information is clear and readable.

You do not need to convert the combined file to PDF as long as the file type is accepted and the information is clear and readable. 

Remember: The goal is to provide one complete, readable file that clearly supports the special enrollment period (SEP).

Combining SEP Verification Documents for Upload

Before Uploading

Before submitting the SEP verification, make sure:

  • All documents needed to support the SEP are included.
  • The information is clear and readable.
  • Pages or images are in a logical order.
  • Nothing important is cut off.
  • The finished file is 5 MB or smaller.
  • The file is saved in one of the accepted formats listed above.

If Your File Is Larger Than 5 MB

Large cellphone photos can quickly increase the size of a combined file. If your file is too large, try:

  • Cropping unnecessary areas from screenshots or photos.
  • Resizing very large images before inserting them.
  • Using fewer duplicate images.
  • Saving or exporting the document as a PDF, which may reduce the file size.

Windows — Microsoft Word

Word is a simple option when you receive several screenshots, photos, or document images.

  1. Open a new Word document.
  2. Select Insert > Pictures.
  3. Add each screenshot, photo, or document image.
  4. Arrange the items in a logical order.
  5. Resize them as needed so the information is easy to read.
  6. Save the document as a DOC or DOCX file.

You may also save or export the document as a PDF if you prefer.

Mac — Apple Pages

Pages can be used in much the same way as Word.

  1. Open Pages and create a new blank document.
  2. Add each screenshot, photo, or document image.
  3. Arrange the items in a logical order.
  4. Resize them so all information is readable.
  5. Save the document.

If needed, you can also select File > Export To > PDF.

Mac — Preview

Preview works well when combining existing PDFs or image files.

  1. Open the files in Preview.
  2. Select View > Thumbnails.
  3. Drag additional files into the thumbnail sidebar.
  4. Arrange the pages in the correct order.
  5. Save or export the combined file.

Adobe Acrobat

If you use Adobe Acrobat, you can combine PDFs, JPGs, and other supported files into one document.

  1. Open Adobe Acrobat.
  2. Select Combine Files.
  3. Add the files you want to include.
  4. Arrange them in the correct order.
  5. Select Combine.
  6. Save the finished file.

Special Enrollment Period

All SEPs require some kind of proof (verification). Some SEPs allow verifications to be submitted after SEP eligibility has been determined. Other SEPs need “pre-verification.”

Before submitting verifications, assisters should first follow the steps outlined on the Special Enrollment Period page to confirm whether the consumer is eligible for a SEP.

If verification documents are submitted using the SEP upload tool (or SEPUP tool): Assisters will need to wait at least ten minutes and then can contact the ARC/Broker Service line to have verification documents reviewed/approved.

  • If verification documents are accepted/approved, the ARC/Broker Service Line will open shopping and enrollment for the consumers special enrollment period while live on the call.
  • If the documentation is not accepted/approved, the ARC/Broker Service Line will advise next steps.

If verification documents are mailed in the consumer will be contacted and assisters will receive a secure email with next steps.

MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance

To obtain or maintain eligibility for a public program, consumers may need to submit verification documents. 

  • Assisters and consumers should follow guidance on the notice to see what documents are acceptable proof for the verification requested. MNsure is unable to determine if a document is acceptable over the phone.
  • Consumers should submit the requested verification documents to the address of their servicing agency as listed on their verification notice.