Denied unemployment, how do I appeal? - 6 months and counting

My claim was denied after 20 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. I have not done a hearing before and I am nervous. Should I ask someone for free legal help?

I printed my emails in order and wrote a one-page timeline. The hearing officer kept going back to it.

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.