www.esd.wa.gov - Write Unemployment Appeal in Washington

If you've been denied unemployment benefits in Washington State--or if your benefits have been reduced--you can appeal the decision and request a hearing through the Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings. Writing a strong appeal request is an important step in the appeals process, because it sets up the hearing that you will go through, including the witnesses, the evidence, and the reasoning behind your appeal. Being organized and making sure that each step is properly addressed, will allow you to have a chance of winning your appeal and receiving unemployment benefits and follow the instruction below-

1. Include your name, address, phone number, and social security number at the top of the appeal letter you're writing.

2. Explain clearly what decision you're appealing. The letter that they sent you denying your benefits should list this information clearly. Include the date that they denied your request.

3. Explain why you don't agree with their choice to deny your request for unemployment benefits. If you have solid reasoning for expecting benefits, describe that reasoning here.

4. Make a list of records that support your reasoning for the appeal. This might include a job search log, old pay stubs, or anything else that can show you have a case for additional benefits.

5. Make a list of witnesses who you want to testify at your benefits hearing. This might include family members, human resource contacts, or someone from an old job who can explain that you were laid off, not fired.

6. Decide whether you need an interpreter. If you speak a language other than English, or if you use American Sign Language, specify that in the letter so that they can be prepared to have an interpreter in court.

7. Write why your letter of appeal is late--if it is--and include that at the end. Most of the time, late requests are denied, so only file a late appeal if you have a compelling reason for doing so.

8. Sign and date your letter of appeal.

9. Send or fax your appeal, along with all supporting documents, within thirty days of the date on your denial letter to:

TeleCenter Appeals
P.O. Box 19018
Olympia, WA 98507-0018
Fax: 800-301-1795

10. Wait to be contacted with a list of your rights and the date of your benefits hearing.

Need More Information visit Washington State Unemployment Security Department