If you have your unemployment benefits denied in Alaska, you may feel as if you have exhausted your options, but that is not the case. Particularly in cases where wrongful termination can be proven, an official appeal can help you collect benefits.

If you find yourself asking “What can I do if unemployment denied me the right to collect benefits?” you will be happy to know there is an unemployment denial appeal process that can give you a second chance at receiving unemployment insurance.

We have compiled helpful information, hints, and tips about appealing an unemployment benefits denial in Alaska on this website and FAQs and our free guide.

Learn more about this process in Alaska by reading below, checking out our Alaska FAQs, and reading our free guide.

Reasons Why Unemployment Benefits Are Denied in Alaska

The majority of individuals denied unemployment benefits simply had their applications denied because they did not meet the required qualifications. Oftentimes, they are disqualified because of the reason for their separation from their employer.

For instance, you will have your unemployment benefits denied in AK if your termination came as a direct result of the following reasons:

• Misconduct
• Willful disregard for your employer’s interests
• Breaking office rules or standards of behavior
• Being found under the influence of drugs or alcohol and unable to perform your work duties
• Theft (exceeding the value of $25) or abuse of property in the workplace

Regarding cases of denied unemployment compensation, the state department may base its decision on various other factors as well, including the testimony of your former employer and any other documents that were filed. Once you file your unemployment insurance claim, your former employer will be contacted to confirm the reason for your termination.

In order to be approved for unemployment benefits, your former employer must confirm that you are not at fault for your termination. Conversely, you may have your unemployment benefits denied in Alaska, if your employer can prove that your termination was your fault, or that the information you provided was false.

Therefore, to ensure you are not denied unemployment benefits, make sure that all of your documents are accurate, and that all pages have any required dates or signatures.

Those applying for benefits must maintain their qualifications throughout the approval process in order to maintain their eligibility. In order to avoid having your unemployment compensation benefits denied you must continue to submit biweekly claims, as well as hold evidence of your continued job search.

How to File an Unemployment Denial Appeal in Alaska

In the event that you are denied unemployment benefits in Alaska, you can file for an unemployment denial appeal. In order to appeal the denied unemployment insurance, you must contact your UI claim center or an appeals office within 30 days of the decision.

Once you have received confirmation of your appeal, the Appeals Department will schedule a hearing and mail you a notice (if you have not received your hearing notice within 10 days, contact the Appeals Department). During your hearing, a referee will review the documents and statements submitted by both you and your employer. At this time your former employer has an opportunity to attend the hearing, and witnesses may be presented.

The reason for your prior denial will not be taken into account during the hearing, and only the current facts will be considered. If you feel that you were the victim of wrongful termination, you must produce any evidence supporting this claim.

Once the hearing is finished, you will receive a decision in the mail. If you are met with yet another denied unemployment letter, you have the right to place a second unemployment denial appeal.

If your denied unemployment benefits case is overly complex, then it may be moved to a higher court. You may have representation during this subsequent appeal process, be it from the hearing referee or an attorney.

In some cases, the state of Alaska may supply you with an attorney for free or at a reduced cost. In any case, throughout the unemployment denial appeal process, you must file your biweekly claims, because if your denial is overturned, you will not be paid for weeks that you did not file for.

Note: Unemployment denial appeals in Alaska are public information, and decisions are posted on the internet.

Last Updated: February 28, 2023