Q.- In an employee’s exit interview, we verbally told him about his right to continue coverage under COBRA. He declined COBRA and we had him sign a statement confirming this. Is this statement sufficient for COBRA compliance?
A.- No. The COBRA regulations require that a qualified beneficiary receive written notification of his COBRA rights. The written notice must meet certain requirements and address specified points identified in the regulations. A verbal explanation of COBRA coverage is not sufficient, even if the employee signs a statement declining coverage.