How to Write an Unemployment Appeal Letter

An unemployment appeal is not an easy process to go through. Emotions run high as you try to sort through how you got into the predicament and how you will get through it. It is important that you take a deep breathe and focus your mind before you begin the task of writing a letter for an unemployment appeal. Below is a guide that you can help you organize all of your information so you can write an effective unemployment appeal letter.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Before you begin writing the letter read through the information that the state probably provided to you on the process of an unemployment appeal. Since states vary on what information they require, make a list of the things they will require you to include in your letter.

2. Add to your list, a summary of the important details regarding your situation and why you think you are entitled to unemployment, and a list of witnesses that can confirm your statements. You will use these details when writing your letter.

3. Begin your letter in standard business format with the date. Follow that with the address of the state agency that will be processing your appeal. If you have a specific contact person add that person's name to the address.
   
   For example:
   
   Date
   
   Ms. Jane Doe
   WC State Appeals Department
   1234 Main Street
   City, State 00000

4. Add the information that will help them identify who you are and your case number. Also anything that might be on the list of requirements from your state.
   
   For example:
   
   Re: Name
   Current Address
   Social Security #
   Case # (if applicable)

5. Begin the first paragraph of the letter by stating the exact reason for your writing and any specific details the state requires.
   
   For example: I am writing to appeal the refusal of unemployment benefits. I received a determination of payment on July 1, 2008 and I have attached a copy of that determination for your convenience.

6. The body of your letter will consist of several things but it should begin by stating the reason you believe you are entitled to unemployment benefits. When you received notice of denial of benefits you probably were given a reason under a certain statute. Concentrate on that and build a good solid argument as to why that statute does not apply to you.

7. If you included witnesses in your statement, list your witnesses below that paragraph, include their contact information, and specify if your witnesses require special needs like an interpreter.

8. The final paragraph should have all of your contact information.

9. If you are attaching anything to the document, like witness statements, copies of letters or correspondence, then a few lines after your signature write the word ATTACHMENTS so that the reader knows that there is more information.

Tips & Warnings

• Some states require that you complete a form while others accept an appeals letter. Either way, make sure that you are focused and clear with the information that you share with them so that the best determination can be made.
• It is best not to be late with filing your appeal. However, if you are late, there are sometimes "good causes" for a late appeal. Each state has their own rules regarding what those "good causes" are so check on that and make sure to state your reasons in your letter.

[Mitestarossa]

on 4/19/2009 good advice for an unemployment appeal letter.

[ccallahan916]

on 3/20/2009 Very time appropriate info. thanks