Board of Review
The Board of Review is the independent agency in Rhode Island responsible for handling appeals related to Unemployment Insurance (UI) and Temporary Disability/Caregiver Insurance (TDI/TCI) from the Department of Labor and Training. It also addresses tax status disputes from employers. The Board operates separately from the Department to ensure unbiased decisions.
When an appeal is filed regarding a Department decision on UI, TDI, or TCI benefits, the case is transferred to the Board of Review. A Hearing Officer, called a Referee, is assigned to conduct a hearing and issue a written decision.
If you disagree with the Referee’s decision, you may appeal to the full Board of Review. The Board panel conducts a review of the Referee’s decision based on the case record. In most cases, no additional hearing is held.
There are two types of appeals, and each has a 15 calendar day deadline from the mailing date of the decision:
1. Appealing a Department Decision (Initial Appeal)
To appeal an initial department decision:
- UI Claimants: File through UI Online.
- Employers needing to appeal UI Claims should use the Employer Appeal Form through UI Online.
- TDI/TCI Claimants: Submit your appeal in writing, see instructions here.
*Important Note on Unemployment Compensation Appeals
Unemployment Compensation appeals hearings are conducted "de novo," meaning they start fresh. These hearings are independent of the original decision and not influenced by the Department's initial ruling.
2. Appealing a Referee’s Decision to the Board of Review
If you’ve already had a hearing and received a written decision from a Referee, you may file an appeal to the Board of Review. That appeal must also be filed within 15 calendar days of the date the Referee’s decision was mailed.
You can submit this appeal:
- Online
- By mail, fax, or email:
Board of Review
1511 Pontiac Avenue,
Cranston, RI 02920
Fax: (401) 462-8506
Email: DLT.BORinfo@dlt.ri.gov
You will receive a Notice of Referee Hearing detailing the time and date of your telephone hearing.
- You must call 401-462-9400 on that date and time to participate.
- Hearings are conducted by telephone.
- To request a postponement, submit a written request showing good cause. Postponements may be granted at the discretion of the Referee or Board to avoid unreasonable delay.
- Email DLT.BORinfo@dlt.ri.gov for interpreter requests. Interpreters are provided at no cost.
To request a copy of your appeal file, email a written request with a copy of your photo ID to DLT.BORinfo@dlt.ri.gov at least two business days before your scheduled hearing.
These are examples of letters or notices you may receive if you have an appeal hearing with a Board of Review Referee:
Example Letters From the Board of Review
Appeal a Referee's Decision to the Board of Review
Reminder:
Only use the Board of Review’s Online Appeal Form if you are appealing a Referee’s decision. This is the second step in the appeals process after your Referee hearing. Do not use this form for your initial appeal of the Department's decision.
To appeal an initial decision:
- UI Claimants: File through UI Online.
- Employers needing to appeal UI Claims should use the Employer Appeal Form through UI Online.
- TDI/TCI Claimants: Submit your appeal in writing, see instructions here.
Resources for Attorneys
Entry of Appearance by AttorneyContact Us
Board of Review
1511 Pontiac Avenue, Cranston, RI 02920
Cranston, RI, 02920
DLT.BORinfo@dlt.ri.gov
401-462-9400
Fax: 401-462-9401
Board Members
- Chris Fierro, Chairman, representing the Public
- John Leidecker, representing Labor
- Spencer Marks, representing Industry
This page provides general information regarding the appeal process, including your right to appeal to the full Board of Review. Please note that the information here is intended for guidance and does not have the force or effect of law or official regulations.