Unemployment Appeal Letter: A Step-by-Step Guide & Template

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Unemployment departments deny benefits for various reasons, including information received from your employer. If your application for unemployment benefits is denied, you can appeal against the decision. Processes vary by state, but you usually need to start by writing a letter to the department. Your state will have an appeal deadline, such as 30 days after receipt of a denial letter, so you may need to move quickly.

Step 1

Check your state's unemployment guidelines to find out what you must include in your appeal letter. Find appeal letter requirements at your state's official unemployment website or contact the department by phone.

Step 2

Type a contact list of any witnesses you have on a separate piece of paper. Include each person's name, address and phone number. Label the contact list with your name and case number at the top.

Step 3

Use a basic business letter format if your state does not provide an appeal letter format. Set your text to the left margin of the paper. Start with the date. Skip a single line and type the unemployment department's address. Skip another line for your name, address and other information the department may use to identify you quickly, such as your case number or Social Security number.

Step 4

Write a paragraph briefly describing the reason for your denial as shown on the denial letter, and focus on facts that oppose the reason and support your appeal. Describe any proof you have of your claims and state you have attached copies. Include the names of your witnesses and state that you have attached their contact information.

Step 5

Close the letter with a restatement of your intention to appeal the denial of benefits. Use a formal closing, such as "Sincerely," and leave space for your signature. Type your name and contact information underneath the signature space. Type the word "Attachments" below your contact information.

Step 6

Attach a copy of your denial letter, your witness contact list and copes of all evidence. Send the letter to the appeals address for your state's unemployment department.

Warning

Do not include originals of your proof. Use copies only.