Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial

I got a denial letter last week saying I left my job voluntarily, but I was let go as a graphic designer. There are 8 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. The letter lists a deadline and a hearing process, but it is hard to follow. If you have appealed before, what helped you prepare?

File the appeal before the deadline, even if you are unsure. You can gather documents afterwards. That is the one part I would not wait on.