How do I appeal an unemployment insurance denial in Georgia?

1. Agency. The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) administers UI under Title 34, Chapter 8 of the Official Code of Georgia (O.C.G.A. § 34-8-1 et seq.).

2. Common Disqualifications. Voluntary quit without good work-related cause (O.C.G.A. § 34-8-194(1)), discharge for failure to obey rules or for misconduct (§ 34-8-194(2)), refusal of suitable work (§ 34-8-194(3)), not able and available (§ 34-8-195), or receipt of severance.

3. Determination Notice. GDOL mails a Claims Examiner's Determination stating the disqualification reason and appeal rights.

4. Appeal Deadline. 15 calendar days from the date of release of the determination (O.C.G.A. § 34-8-220). Late appeals require good cause.

5. Filing the Appeal. File by mail, fax, or in person at a GDOL career center; written appeals must include claimant's name, SSN, and reason for disagreement.

6. First-Level Hearing. A Hearing Officer in the Appeals Tribunal conducts a telephonic de novo hearing (O.C.G.A. § 34-8-221). Both parties testify under oath, submit evidence, and cross-examine.

7. Burden of Proof. Employer bears the burden on misconduct discharge; claimant bears the burden on good-cause voluntary quit.

8. Decision. The Hearing Officer issues a written decision typically within 2-3 weeks.

9. Second-Level Administrative Appeal. Appeal to the Board of Review within 15 days (O.C.G.A. § 34-8-222). The Board reviews the record and may grant a further hearing in its discretion.

10. Judicial Review. Petition the superior court of the county of residence within 15 days under O.C.G.A. § 34-8-223; review is on the any-evidence standard.

11. Continued Filing. Continue weekly certifications through the MyUI portal to preserve back pay.

12. Overpayment. If you lose, GDOL issues an overpayment notice; non-fault waiver is narrowly available (O.C.G.A. § 34-8-254).

This is legal information, not legal advice.