Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial (update)

My claim was denied after 24 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. There are 18 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. Did you bring documents or only talk?

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.