Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial - 9 months and counting

My claim was denied after 18 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. I do not usually post, so bear with me. My employer's version of events does not match mine, and I have emails that show it. If you have appealed before, what helped you prepare?

Legal aid offices and some workforce centres help with unemployment hearings at no cost. A call is worth it.