Appeal deadline questions after an unemployment denial - what worked for you?

My claim was denied after 22 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. The letter lists a deadline and a hearing process, but it is hard to follow. Did you bring documents or only talk?

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