Got a denial letter for unemployment, what now? - 2 months and counting

My claim was denied after 24 weeks of waiting, and the letter says I have a short window to appeal. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. I have not done a hearing before and I am nervous. Should I ask someone for free legal help?

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