Sometimes, employees are treated unfairly at work. For instance, they may be dismissed or transferred to a new location without just reason. This is why it is crucial to learn how to write an appeal letter. Appeal letters can be used by anyone to challenge a decision or action they consider unjust. A student could send one to the dean to dispute being placed on academic probation and so forth.
An appeal letter should not be an emotional plea. It should state the facts of the complaint and be objective and professional. In this article, we explore appeal letters, their uses, and how to draft an appropriate one.
What Should You Include in an Appeal Letter?
At its core, an appeal letter contains three main components. Ensure you include the following in your message:
- A description of the event or situation
- Reasons why it is unjust
- A suggestion for the intended income
Always get straight to the point. You want the reader to get everything you are trying to communicate.
Tips for Writing an Appeal Letter
Appeal letters are professional correspondences. Maintain the utmost courteousness and professionalism. Additionally, stay away from any emotionally-charged statements. Here are more guidelines to help you achieve clarity:
- Address the letter appropriately
- Admit where you may have made a mistake
- Maintain a professional and polite tone
- State facts only
- Keep your letter brief and to the point
- Make a statement suggesting the intended outcome
- Format your letter as a business letter
- Proofread your letter and correct any mistakes
Appeal Letter Format
{Date}
{Recipient’s Name}
{Recipient’s Address}
{City, State, Zip Code}
Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms. {Recipient’s Last Name},
My name is {your name}. I have been a(n) {student/employee/tenant} at {institution/company/residence} for {amount of time}. Recently, I was {explain the situation}. This came as a shock to me because {state why the situation is unjust/wrong}.
I am a {provide positive qualities}. In my time at the {institution/company/residence}, I have continuously displayed {skill/ability/positive attribute}. I have attached a copy of {relevant evidence}.
It is my sincere hope that you will {briefly suggest a remedy}.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
{Your Name}
Sample Appeal Letter
15 July 2039
Mercy Griffins
Hallmark Inc.
345 Garden Avenue
5690 Glendale, NJ 34000
Dear Mrs. Griffins,
My name is Alexis Sanchez. I have been a computer technician at Hallmark Inc. for the past six years since 4 February 2014. Recently, I got transferred from the IT Department to the Marketing Department without warning.
This came as a shock to me as I have numerous accolades and awards to prove my software engineering skills. I have attached copies of my certificates and awards I received from the company over the years.
I hope you will allow me to return to my position as a computer technician.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Alexis Sanchez
Appeal Letter Samples and Templates
Writing an appeal letter every time something goes wrong can be tedious and time-consuming. Here are a template and sample to help you draft an effective letter. You can customize them to meet your needs.
Appeal Letter for Termination of Employment

- MS Word
Appeal Letter for Dismissal from Work

- MS Word
Appeal Letter for College Admission

- MS Word
Appeal Letter for School

- MS Word
Appeal Letter Examples (PDF & MS Word)
An appeal letter is used to challenge an authorizing body’s decision or action, such as suspending or dismissing you from work. Appeal letter samples provide examples you can use as a guide to appeal such disciplinary actions depending on your circumstances.
Follow Up Your Appeal Letter
After sending an appeal letter, you should follow it up. Send a second letter and remember to state the facts without getting emotional. Don’t use an unnecessarily rude or accusatory tone. The standard time to wait before following up on an appeal letter is one week. However, you can do it in three days if the matter is urgent.



























