Got a denial letter for unemployment, what now?

I was told my separation was for misconduct, which is not what happened. There are 10 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. My employer's version of events does not match mine, and I have emails that show it. 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.