§ 155.1620 Sampling procedures.
(a) Sample size. At the beginning of each SEIPM cycle, HHS will calculate a sample size in aggregate across all State Exchanges.
(1) Statistical methodology. The sample size will be calculated to estimate an improper payment rate.
(2) State-specific sample sizes. HHS will develop sample sizes specific for each State Exchange. HHS may take into consideration the following factors in determining each State Exchange's sample size for the current SEIPM cycle:
(i) Overall APTC expenditures associated with the State Exchange.
(ii) State-level precision goals for the current SEIPM cycle.
(iii) The improper payment rate from the State Exchange's previous SEIPM cycle.
(3) Sample size parameters. HHS will establish minimum and maximum sample sizes to ensure statistical validity while maintaining operational feasibility across State Exchanges of varying sizes.
(b) Sample selection procedures. On an annual basis, HHS will select samples of tax households from the data provided by each State Exchange as described in § 155.1615(b)(2).
(c) State Exchange coordination and notification—(1) Sampled records notification. Following receipt of the universe data from State Exchanges as described in § 155.1615(b)(2), HHS will notify each State Exchange of the specific records selected for review. This notification will include:
(i) The total number of sampled tax households selected for the State Exchange.
(ii) A unique identifier for each sampled tax household.
(iii) Any specific instructions or requirements that HHS determines are needed to facilitate HHS' review of the sampled records.
(2) Timing of sampled records notification. HHS will provide the sampled records notification described in paragraph (c)(1) of this section no later than 60 days after receipt of complete universe data from all State Exchanges.
(3) Extension of sampling notification timeline. (i) HHS may extend the 60-day timeline specified in paragraph (c)(2) of this section if:
(A) Technical issues prevent completion of the sampling process within the standard timeframe;
(B) Data quality issues require additional coordination with State Exchanges before sampling can be completed; or
(C) Other circumstances beyond HHS's control necessitate additional time to ensure accurate sampling methodology.
(ii) If HHS determines an extension is necessary, HHS will:
(A) Notify all affected State Exchanges in writing of the extension and the revised notification date;
(B) Provide the reason for the extension; and
(C) Confirm the impact, if any, on subsequent SEIPM cycle timelines.