Hearings & Appeals

Appeal a Decision

We are committed to ensuring fair outcomes. Through appeal hearings, we give claimants and employers the opportunity to appeal determinations they feel are incorrect.

About Appeal Hearings

Appeal hearings provide a structured, informal process for claimants and employers to request review of a determination that may be incorrect or have an adverse impact. Both parties have an opportunity to present their case, and testimony is given under oath. Most hearings are conducted by phone and typically last 30 to 60 minutes. In-person hearings are granted only in rare circumstances.

Requirements for Filing an Appeal

The Document ID located in the top right corner of the Notice of Determination letter is required to file an online appeal. If you have not yet received a Notice of Determination letter, then your claim is still in the adjudication process and you are not yet eligible to file an appeal.

Request an Appeal

F.A.Q.

How do I (claimant or employer) appeal an Examiner’s determination on a claim for benefits?

You may appeal the Examiner’s determination to the Hearings and Appeals Division. It must be filed in writing within 15 calendar days of the mailing date on the original notice of determination or decision — or within seven calendar days if the notice of determination or decision was delivered to you in person. The letter of appeal must be signed and include the claimant’s full name, social security number (last four digits) and reason for disagreeing with the decision.

This is a first level appeal and should be mailed or faxed to:

Alabama Department of Labor Hearings and Appeals Division
50 North Ripley Street
Montgomery, AL 36130
Fax: (334) 956-5891

An appeal can also be filed through the online portal.

Will I (claimant or employer) need an attorney to represent me in the hearing?

It is not necessary to be represented by an attorney. However, an interested party has the right to appoint any competent person or legal counsel to represent them in hearing proceedings.

Should I (claimant) continue to file weekly claim certifications while my case is under appeal?

Yes. For any week that you remain unemployed and wish to claim unemployment compensation benefits, you must continue filing weekly claim certification by telephone. If the appeal decision is in your favor, you will be paid for eligible back weeks.

How will I (claimant or employer) be notified of the time and date for an appeal hearing?

The Notice of Unemployment Compensation Telephone Hearing will be mailed to all interested parties at their address of record. The notice of hearing will provide you with the time, date and issue(s) to be addressed in the hearing proceedings, as well as the Administrative Hearing Officer assigned to the case.

Unemployment compensation hearings are conducted by telephone, unless either party contacts the Hearings and Appeals Division and makes a request for special accommodations due to physical restrictions or any other reason. The request for special accommodations can be made by telephone at 1-800-321-9323 upon receipt of the hearing notice.

Can I (claimant or employer) bring witnesses to the hearing?

Yes. You should bring to the hearing individuals who have actual, first-hand knowledge of the facts relevant to the case.

What can I (claimant or employer) do if a witness refuses to appear voluntarily for the hearing proceedings?

You can make a request to the Hearings and Appeals Division by telephone at 1-800-321-9323 to subpoena the individual for the hearing proceedings. Documents can also be subpoenaed. It will be your responsibility to provide the Hearings and Appeals Division with a full name and address of the individual and/or custodian of records and documents to be subpoenaed within a reasonable time prior to the hearing to allow for preparation, mailing and delivery of the subpoena.

What documentary evidence should I (claimant or employer) submit for the hearing?

You should only submit evidence that is relevant to the issue under appeal. The document can be provided by fax or mail.

How will the hearing be conducted?

The hearing proceedings will be conducted by the Administrative Hearing Officer. Hearing proceedings are recorded. Any other recording of the hearing proceeding will not be permitted. Witnesses to the hearing will be put under oath prior to taking testimony.

After the hearing proceedings, how long will I (claimant or employer) be notified of the decision?

The written notice of the Administrative Hearing Officer’s decision will be mailed to all interested parties usually within 10 business days following the hearing proceedings.

What should I (claimant or employer) do if I disagree with the Administrative Hearing Officer’s decision?

You must file an appeal to the Board of Appeals of the Administrative Hearing Officer’s decision within 15 calendar days of the mailing date on the decision.

Who can I (claimant or employer) contact for additional information on the appeals process?

You can contact the Hearings and Appeals Division at telephone number 1-800-321-9323.