Complete Guide to Filing Your Appeal with IDES and Preparing for Your Referee Hearing
CRITICAL DEADLINE ALERT
You have 30 calendar days from the mailing date of your determination to file your appeal with the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). This deadline is printed on your determination notice. Missing this deadline means losing your right to appeal—act quickly.
⚡ Quick Facts: Illinois Unemployment Appeals
CRITICAL: Continue Certifying for Benefits
Even though your benefits are currently denied and you’re appealing, you must continue to certify for benefits by Tele-Serve or online for each two-week period that you are unemployed during the appeal process (if eligible and the system allows it). If you win your appeal but haven’t been certifying during that time, you won’t receive retroactive payment for those weeks. Keep your proof of certification.
If the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) has denied your unemployment benefits, you have the legal right to appeal that decision. The appeal process gives you the opportunity to present your case to a neutral Referee (an Administrative Law Judge) who will review the evidence and testimony before making a new determination. Many denied claims are successfully overturned on appeal when claimants present their case properly and submit strong evidence.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of appealing an unemployment denial in Illinois—from understanding your determination notice and meeting the 30-day deadline, to preparing for and participating in your telephone hearing with a Referee. Whether you were denied for misconduct, voluntary quit, availability issues, or other reasons, this guide will help you prepare for your appeal hearing and maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
1. Understanding Your Determination Notice
When IDES denies your unemployment benefits, you will receive a Finding or Determination notice. This official document explains why your claim was denied and provides critical information about your appeal rights. Understanding this notice is the first step in a successful appeal.
What the Notice Contains
Your determination notice will typically include the following key information:
• Mailing Date: The date IDES mailed the determination—this is the date from which your 30-day appeal deadline is counted.
• Reason for Denial: A clear statement of why your benefits were denied (e.g., misconduct, voluntary quit without good cause, not able or available for work).
• Law References: Citations to the specific Illinois Unemployment Insurance Act sections that apply to your case.
• Factual Findings: A summary of the facts IDES used to make the determination, often based on information from your employer or your claim interview.
• Appeal Instructions: Information about your right to appeal, the 30-day deadline, and where to send your appeal (address and fax number of your local IDES office).
Common Reasons for Denial in Illinois
Illinois unemployment determinations frequently involve these denial reasons:
Misconduct Connected with the Work: You were fired for deliberate or negligent behavior that breached your duties to the employer.
Voluntary Leaving Without Good Cause: You resigned from your job for reasons that Illinois law does not consider “good cause attributable to the employer.”
Not Able or Available for Work: You cannot work full-time, are unavailable during normal business hours, or have restrictions that prevent you from accepting suitable work.
Refused Suitable Work: You turned down a job offer that IDES considered suitable based on your work history and qualifications.
Insufficient Wage Credits: You did not earn enough wages during your base period to qualify financially for unemployment benefits.
💡 Pro Tip: Read your determination notice carefully and identify exactly which law section is cited. This will help you understand what IDES must prove and what you need to disprove or explain in your appeal.
2. The 30-Day Deadline
⏰ Start Date & Countdown
Your 30-calendar-day appeal deadline begins on the mailing date printed on your determination notice—this is the date IDES mailed the notice, not the date you received it. The 30-day period includes weekends and holidays. Your appeal must be received by IDES (if in person), postmarked (if by mail), or transmitted (if by fax) within 30 days from the mailing date.
How the Deadline Works
Illinois gives you 30 calendar days to appeal—a firm deadline that must be strictly followed. Here’s how it works:
• In Person: Your appeal must be filed at the local IDES office within 30 days of the date on the notice.
• By Mail: Your appeal must be postmarked by the U.S. Postal Service on or before the 30th day. Keep your certified mail receipt as proof.
• By Fax: Your appeal must be successfully transmitted by fax on or before the 30th day. Save your fax confirmation report.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
Missing the 30-day deadline can permanently forfeit your right to challenge the denial. IDES has limited discretion to accept late appeals. If you file late, you must provide a compelling explanation and evidence showing circumstances beyond your control prevented you from filing on time (such as serious illness with medical documentation, mail service error with proof, or IDES administrative error).
⚠️ Important: Do not wait until the last day to file your appeal. Mail delays, fax transmission errors, or office closures can cause you to miss the deadline. File as soon as possible after receiving your determination.
3. How to File Your Appeal
Illinois offers three methods to file your unemployment appeal: using the official form (recommended), by mail, or by fax. You may also submit your appeal in person at your local IDES office. Choose the method that works best for you, but always keep proof of submission.
✅ Option A: Use Form ADJ024FC (Recommended)
The easiest and clearest way to file your appeal is to complete IDES Form ADJ024FC: “Request for Reconsideration of Claims Adjudicator’s Determination and, if applicable, Appeal to the Referee.” This official form ensures you include all required information.
What Form ADJ024FC Does:
When you submit this form, IDES first conducts a reconsideration of the claims adjudicator’s determination. If the reconsideration is denied, your request automatically becomes an appeal to the Referee (Appeals Division), and you will receive a Notice of Hearing for a telephone hearing.
How to Complete Form ADJ024FC:
- Download the Form: Get Form ADJ024FC from ides.illinois.gov or request it from your local IDES office.
- Section A – Claimant Information: Fill in your name, Claimant ID (or last 4 digits of SSN).
- Section B – Reason for Request: Write the date of the determination you’re appealing and explain why you disagree. Be clear and provide all your reasons and facts. (Use additional pages if needed.)
- Section C – Sign and Date: Sign the form, print your name, provide your phone number, and date it.
- Submit: Mail, fax, or deliver the completed form to your local IDES office (address and fax number are on your determination notice).
📄 Download Form ADJ024FC:
📮 Option B: Write an Appeal Letter
If you prefer not to use the official form, you can write a letter stating your appeal. Your letter must include specific information to be considered valid.
What to Include in Your Appeal Letter:
- Your Full Name
- Your Claimant ID or Social Security Number
- Your Current Mailing Address and Phone Number
- The Date IDES Mailed the Determination (found on your notice)
- A Clear Statement: “I appeal the determination dated [date] denying my unemployment benefits.”
- Explanation: State why you disagree with the determination. Be specific and include all relevant facts.
- Your Signature and Date
- Copy of the Determination Notice (if possible)
📍 Where to Send Your Appeal
Send your appeal to your local IDES office. The mailing address and fax number are printed on your determination notice. You can also find your local office at:
Fax Number (from official form):
Fax: 217-557-4913
(Note: Your determination notice may list a different local fax number—use the number on your notice.)
⚠️ Keep Your Proof: If you mail your appeal, use certified mail with return receipt requested. If you fax, save the confirmation report. If you submit in person, ask for a date-stamped copy.
🏢 Option C: File in Person
You can submit your appeal (form or letter) in person at your local IDES office. Bring your determination notice and ask the staff for a date-stamped copy as proof of submission.
4. What Happens After You File Your Appeal
Once IDES receives your appeal, it enters the reconsideration and appeals process. Here’s what to expect during the weeks following your appeal submission.
Step 1: Reconsideration Process
If you used Form ADJ024FC, IDES will first conduct a reconsideration of the claims adjudicator’s determination. The adjudicator will review your appeal and any new information you provided. If the adjudicator finds in your favor during reconsideration, your benefits may be approved without a hearing. However, if the reconsideration is denied, your case is automatically forwarded to the Appeals Division for a hearing before a Referee.
Step 2: Case Assignment & Notice of Hearing
Once your appeal reaches the Appeals Division, your case will be assigned to a Referee (an Administrative Law Judge who is an attorney). The Referee will schedule a telephone hearing and send you a Notice of Hearing that includes:
• Date and Time of Your Hearing: Your hearing will be scheduled at a specific date and time (typically Central Time Zone).
• Docket Number: A 7-digit case number you’ll use to reference your case.
• Referee’s Contact Information: Name, phone number, fax number, and mailing address of the Referee assigned to your case.
• Issues to Be Decided: The specific questions the Referee will address (e.g., whether your discharge was for misconduct).
• Instructions: How to participate in the telephone hearing and how to submit documents.
Step 3: Request to Review Your File (Optional but Recommended)
Before your hearing, you have the right to inspect your appeal file to see what documents and information IDES has collected. This is highly recommended because it shows you what evidence the Referee and the employer will see.
How to Request Your File:
Submit a completed Form APL115F: Review File Request (Appeals) to the local IDES office where your claim was filed or to the Agency’s main office in Chicago.
Important: If you make your request at least 2 working days before the hearing, IDES will provide you with an opportunity to inspect the file at least 24 hours prior to the hearing.
Timelines and What to Expect
Timelines vary depending on caseload. In Illinois, the typical timeline looks like this:
• Days 1-30: File your appeal within 30 calendar days of the mailing date on your determination.
• Weeks 2-8: IDES processes your appeal (reconsideration, then forwarding to Appeals Division if denied). Timelines vary depending on caseload.
• Notice of Hearing: You receive your hearing notice with the date, time, and Referee information.
• Hearing Day: You participate in a telephone hearing with the Referee and the employer (if they appear).
💡 Pro Tip: Check your mail regularly and make sure IDES has your current address. Missing your Notice of Hearing can seriously harm your case. If you move, update your address immediately by contacting your local IDES office.
5. Preparing for Your Hearing
The hearing is your opportunity to present your side of the story under oath before a Referee. Proper preparation is critical to maximizing your chances of a successful outcome. The Referee will make their decision based solely on the testimony and evidence presented during the hearing, so thorough preparation is essential.
A. Gather Your Evidence
Strong, relevant evidence is the foundation of a successful appeal. Illinois Referees rely heavily on documentary evidence to support claims. Collect any documents that support your version of events or contradict the employer’s claims:
• Text Messages & Emails: Communications with your employer, supervisor, or HR about the incident or your separation.
• Pay Stubs & W-2s: Proof of employment, wages, and work dates.
• Performance Reviews: Evaluations showing satisfactory or excellent performance (especially helpful if you’re accused of poor performance).
• Medical Records or Doctor’s Notes: If you quit or were fired due to health reasons, disability accommodation requests, or injury.
• Photos or Screenshots: Visual evidence of working conditions, safety hazards, harassment, or relevant documentation.
• Company Policies or Handbook: Written policies (especially if the employer claims you violated a policy you were never told about).
• Written Warnings or Disciplinary Records: If you received warnings, bring them. If you didn’t receive warnings, point that out.
• Witness Statements: Written, signed statements from coworkers or others with firsthand knowledge of the situation.
⚠️ Important: Any documents you want to submit as evidence must be faxed or mailed to the Referee AND to the other party (your former employer) at least 24 hours before the hearing. IDES requires that all parties receive copies of evidence in advance. The Referee’s fax number and mailing address, as well as the employer’s information, are on your Notice of Hearing. Exhibits not provided to all parties before the hearing may not be considered.
B. Prepare Your Witnesses
Witnesses can strengthen your case, but only if they have firsthand knowledge of the relevant facts. Good witnesses include coworkers who saw the incident, supervisors who can confirm your work performance, or anyone who heard or saw something directly related to your case.
• Contact Witnesses in Advance: Confirm they are available and willing to participate in the telephone hearing.
• Prepare Them for Testimony: Explain what the hearing is about and what questions they might be asked.
• Provide Contact Information to the Referee: You should notify the Referee before the hearing if you plan to have witnesses. Provide their names and phone numbers.
• Keep Them Available: Witnesses should remain by their phone during the hearing until the Referee calls them to testify.
C. Organize Your Testimony
You will be asked to testify under oath during the hearing. Prepare a clear, organized account of what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid emotional language. Focus on the key issues identified in your Notice of Hearing.
• Write an Outline: Before the hearing, write down the points you want to cover. Make a checklist of the facts you feel are important. Organize your story chronologically with dates, times, and names.
• Address the Reason for Denial: Specifically explain why the employer’s version of events is incorrect or incomplete, or why IDES’s determination was wrong.
• Stick to What You Know: Only testify about things you personally saw, heard, or did. Don’t speculate or guess.
• Write Down Questions: Write down any questions you want to ask your witnesses or the opposing side (your employer). Use your list to make sure you don’t forget anything.
• Be Honest: If you don’t know or don’t remember something, say so. Never lie or exaggerate—it will destroy your credibility.
D. Consider Legal Representation
You are not required to have an attorney represent you at your appeal hearing. The IDES appeals process is designed to be accessible without legal representation. However, if your case involves complex legal issues, significant back pay, or strong opposition from a represented employer, hiring an experienced unemployment attorney may improve your chances. Many attorneys offer free or low-cost consultations to evaluate your case.
💡 Resources for Legal Help: Contact Illinois Legal Aid Online (illinoislegalaid.org), Prairie State Legal Services, Land of Lincoln Legal Aid, or local bar associations for free or low-cost legal assistance.
6. The Hearing Day
Your hearing is a formal legal proceeding typically conducted by telephone (as stated on your Notice of Hearing). The Referee (an Administrative Law Judge) will conduct the hearing, which will be recorded. Most Illinois unemployment hearings last between 30 minutes and one hour, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of witnesses. Here’s what to expect and how to conduct yourself during the hearing.
Before the Hearing
• Know Your Docket Number: This is the 7-digit number on your Notice of Hearing (upper right). You’ll use it to reference your case.
• Have All Documents Ready: Keep your Notice of Hearing, all evidence, your hearing file (if you requested it), and notes organized and within reach.
• Find a Quiet Location: Choose a private, quiet place free from background noise, interruptions, children, or pets.
• Request Interpreter or Accommodations: If you or your witnesses need language interpretation or disability accommodations (hearing impairment, wheelchair access, etc.), notify IDES as early as possible by calling the 800 number on your Notice of Hearing.
• Be Present and Ready: Be by your phone at the scheduled hearing time. The Referee will call you and the other parties to start the hearing.
Hearing Format & Procedure
On the day of the hearing, the IDES Referee will call you and the other parties (your employer, if they’re participating) to connect everyone to a conference call. The hearing will proceed as follows:
1. Opening & Introduction: The Referee will introduce themselves, confirm the identities of all parties, explain the hearing process, review the issues to be decided, and explain the order of testimony. The Referee will then swear everyone in under oath.
2. Review of the Record: The Referee will review the documents already in the record and identify any exhibits submitted by the parties.
3. Testimony: Each party will present their testimony and evidence. The Referee will ask questions to clarify facts and ensure a complete record. You and the employer may ask questions of each other and each other’s witnesses (cross-examination).
4. Witnesses: If you have witnesses, notify the Referee at the beginning of the hearing. The Referee will call them when it’s time for their testimony.
5. Closing Statements: Both parties may make a brief closing statement summarizing their case and why they believe they should prevail.
6. End of Hearing: The Referee will close the record and explain when you can expect a written decision (typically mailed within a few weeks).
Best Practices for the Hearing
✅ Be Punctual: Be ready by your phone at the scheduled time. The Referee will call you—don’t call the Referee unless instructed.
✅ Answer Clearly & Directly: Listen carefully to each question and answer truthfully. Say “yes” or “no” rather than “uh-huh” or “mm-hmm.”
✅ Stay Calm & Professional: Remain respectful even if you disagree with the employer’s statements. Do not interrupt or argue.
✅ Tell the Truth: Honesty is essential. If you don’t know or don’t remember something, say so.
✅ Take Notes: Write down key points and questions you want to address when it’s your turn to speak or cross-examine.
✅ Ask for Clarification: If you don’t understand a question, politely ask the Referee to repeat or rephrase it.
✅ Address the Referee Properly: Refer to the Referee as “Your Honor” or “Referee” to show respect.
What Happens If You Miss the Hearing?
If you miss the hearing, you can request to reopen the hearing within 10 days after the hearing date. You must provide a valid reason for missing the hearing (such as a medical emergency with documentation or a technical phone failure). If you don’t request a reopening within 10 days, the Referee will likely issue a decision based on the available evidence, which almost always results in an unfavorable outcome.
⚠️ Warning: If you’re late to the hearing, the Referee may proceed without you. Make every effort to be on time and ready to participate.
7. After the Hearing
The Referee’s Written Decision
After the hearing is complete, the Referee will review the record and issue a written decision. The decision will be mailed to you, your former employer, and IDES. Timelines vary depending on caseload, but decisions are typically issued within a few weeks of the hearing. The decision will explain the Referee’s findings of fact, conclusions of law, and whether your appeal was granted or denied.
If You Win
If the Referee overturns the denial and rules in your favor, your unemployment benefits will be restored. You should receive retroactive payment for eligible weeks if you kept certifying for benefits and were otherwise eligible for those weeks. It may take a few weeks for IDES to process the payment and for funds to appear in your account or debit card.
✅ What to Do Next: Continue certifying for benefits and looking for work. Follow all IDES requirements to maintain eligibility.
If You Lose (Appeal to the Board of Review)
If the Referee rules against you, you have the right to appeal the decision to the Board of Review. This is a second-level review conducted by the Board, which will review all documents and testimony in the record. Unlike the first appeal, there is typically no second hearing—the Board decides based on the existing record from the Referee’s hearing.
• Deadline: You must appeal within 30 calendar days of the date shown on the Referee’s decision (issue/mailing date as listed on the document).
• How to File: Submit a written appeal or use Form APL124F: Notice of Appeal/Board of Review. Your appeal must state why you are appealing and include the docket number of the Referee’s Decision.
• Where to File: Submit to your local IDES office, to the Appeals Division, or directly to the Board of Review:
115 South LaSalle Street, 19th Floor
Chicago, IL 60603
Fax: 630-645-3731
You may also file your Board of Review appeal at your local IDES office or fax it to 630-645-3731. Keep proof of submission (certified mail receipt, fax confirmation, or date-stamped copy).
Request a Transcript or File Copy: You may request a transcript of the Referee’s hearing or a copy of your file by submitting Form APL114F: Review File Request (BOR). You must make this request within 15 days after you file your appeal (or within 7 days if you’re the appellee responding to an appeal).
Download forms: APL124F (Notice of Appeal) | APL114F (Review File Request)
If You Lose at the Board of Review
If you are dissatisfied with the Board of Review Decision, you can appeal the decision to the county Circuit Court within 35 days of the Board’s decision. This level of appeal requires filing a formal lawsuit and typically requires an attorney. Contact a lawyer experienced in unemployment appeals if you wish to pursue this option.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the appeal process take in Illinois?
After filing your appeal, timelines vary depending on caseload. The reconsideration process typically takes a few weeks. If your case proceeds to a Referee hearing, it may take several weeks to a few months from filing to receive your hearing notice. After the hearing, the Referee’s decision is typically issued within a few weeks. Timelines vary depending on caseload.
Will I receive back pay if I win my appeal?
If you win and you kept certifying for benefits, you may receive retroactive benefits for eligible weeks (if otherwise eligible). However, if you did not continue certifying during your appeal, you will not receive benefits for those weeks even if you win. Always continue certifying while your appeal is pending.
Do I need a lawyer for my unemployment appeal hearing?
No, you do not need a lawyer. The IDES appeals process is designed to be accessible without legal representation. However, if your case involves complex legal issues, significant back pay, or if your employer is represented by an attorney, you may benefit from hiring an experienced unemployment attorney. Many offer free consultations. Contact Illinois Legal Aid Online for free or low-cost resources.
What happens if my employer doesn’t show up to the hearing?
If your employer does not participate in the hearing, the Referee may proceed based on the testimony and evidence available. The employer may later try to reopen the case if they can show good cause for missing the hearing. Make sure you still present your case thoroughly even if the employer doesn’t appear.
Can I appeal if I quit my job?
Yes, you can appeal if you quit and IDES denied your benefits. To win, you must prove you left for “good cause attributable to the employer” under Illinois law. Examples include unsafe working conditions, significant changes in work terms, workplace harassment, non-payment of wages, or compelling personal reasons beyond your control. Document everything and be prepared to explain why quitting was your only reasonable option.
What if I miss my appeal deadline?
If you miss the 30-day deadline, you can still file a late appeal, but you must include a written explanation and evidence showing circumstances beyond your control prevented timely filing (e.g., hospitalization, mail service error, IDES mistake). IDES has limited discretion to accept late appeals. Act immediately—do not delay further.
How can I check the status of my appeal?
If you need a status update, use the contact information on your Notice of Hearing or call your local IDES office. Have your docket number (the 7-digit case number) ready when you call. Phone contact is the primary method for checking appeal status with IDES.
Can I request a copy of my hearing file before the hearing?
Yes! Submit Form APL115F: Review File Request (Appeals) to the local IDES office where your claim was filed. If you make your request at least 2 working days before the hearing, IDES will provide you with an opportunity to inspect the file at least 24 hours prior to the hearing. This is highly recommended so you can see what evidence is in the record.
9. Official Resources & Next Steps
Use these official Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) resources to file your appeal, check your status, and learn more about your rights under Illinois unemployment law.
📋 IDES Appeals Information
Official IDES page with appeal instructions, deadlines, hearing preparation tips, and contact information.
📄 Form ADJ024FC (Request for Reconsideration)
Download the official Request for Reconsideration and Appeal form (ADJ024FC).
📂 Form APL115F (Review File Request)
Request to review your appeal file before the hearing. Highly recommended to see what evidence is in the record.
📚 IDES Office Locator
Find your local IDES office to file your appeal in person or get assistance.
📖 Related Guides
Illinois Unemployment Benefits Guide
Complete guide to applying for, maintaining, and maximizing your unemployment benefits in Illinois.
Illinois Overpayment Waiver Guide
Learn how to request a waiver if IDES claims you were overpaid unemployment benefits.
General Unemployment Appeal Guide
Multi-state unemployment appeal guide covering all 50 states and territories.