Remember that this hearing is your only chance to present your side of the case, so you will want to prepare an organized presentation of why the state was wrong to deny you benefits. Do your best to educate yourself on your state’s unemployment eligibility requirements and gather evidence to persuasively explain your situation. Pay special attention to deadlines. If you fail to appear at a hearing, you will likely lose your case. Before the appeals hearing you have a chance to review your file and unemployment notice regarding why you were denied benefits. Be prepared to counter your employer’s allegations, whatever they may be. For example, it may be that you didn't commit the act of misconduct for which you are charged or that you have a reason why it was a mistake, not intentional. You might need to demonstrate why you had good reason to quit or why you actually didn't quit at all but were told that you were being fired. Whatever the theory, you need to be able to explain it clearly and develop it with evidence. Some states have user-friendly explanations of the unemployment law. Use those resources to identify what you need to prove to be eligible for benefits. Links to information regarding legal rules and resources are below.