Preparation is key to an unemployment benefit appeal
You may meet some resistance when applying for unemployment benefits. Normally, filling out the application for benefits is the easiest part of the process. Once you have your application turned for review - the long wait begins. Waiting for a response from the unemployment office is the worst part of applying for benefits.
You wait for your response and finally you receive your confirmation. You open the envelope and the letter inside reads that you have been denied unemployment benefits. This envelope contains appeal paperwork to be returned if you want to appeal your benefit denial.
How do you survive an unemployment benefit appeal? The best way to survive the appeal is through preparation. First, let's talk about what goes on at the appeal hearing.
The appeal process will be overseen by an unemployment compensation "referee". This referee is similar to a judge and will hear both sides of the unemployment appeal. The two sides involved in the appeal will be you and your former employer. This appeal hearing will be audio recorded and notes will be taken by the referee. The duration of the hearing itself will depend on how many witnesses show up and the circumstances of your benefit denial. The employer and the affected employee will both be subjected to direct questioning from the referee and neither side should directly address the other party. It is the referee's duty to question both parties. You may answer the questions and refer your questions to the referee only.
The best tip to survive this process is to show up! If you fail to show up for your hearing, there is a good chance the referee will rule in favor of your former employer. Bring all relevant witnesses to the hearing. Only bring witnesses that have first hand knowledge of your case. Bring all paperwork pertaining to your case. The referee will assign numbers to your paperwork and enter them into evidence. Be professional during the appeal process and tell the truth. If you were treated unfairly - let the referee hear your side. Your former employer will get his chance to give his side of the story as well. Dress professionally and do not chew gum during the appeal. These are indicators that you are not taking the hearing seriously and it shows disrespect toward the referee.
After the hearing, you will have to wait on the referee's decision. The waiting game begins again, but hopefully the referee will rule in your favor this time.
