Section 10. Deputy's determinations

A. Whenever, after a claim is filed, a deputy obtains information from a claimant, employer, or third party which could affect the claimant's entitlement to benefits, he shall initiate further investigation. The deputy may contact the parties in person or by telephone to obtain information. Documentary evidence prepared specifically for the claim or for other purposes may be considered by the deputy. Any party to an investigation may be represented by counsel or a duly authorized representative. No information or evidence shall be considered by the deputy unless the claimant has been given the opportunity to see or hear it and comment upon it. Information concerning eligibility or qualification for benefits shall be entered into commission records.

B. A predetermination fact-finding proceeding may be scheduled by the deputy whenever a request is made by the claimant, his liable employer, or his interested subsequent employing unit, for the purpose of gathering information to determine benefit eligibility or qualification. Notice of the date, time and location will be mailed to the parties five days before the scheduled proceeding, but such notice may be waived with the parties' consent.

The proceeding may be conducted telephonically or in person with the deputy presiding. This informal interview shall not be recorded in any way, although notes can be taken by the deputy. Statements made by parties or witnesses shall not be taken under oath and formal examination or cross-examination shall not be permitted. The deputy shall direct questions to the parties and witnesses. The parties may also ask questions of each other and the witnesses. Rebuttal to statements made by opposing parties or witnesses shall be permitted. Any party to a predetermination proceeding may be represented by counsel or other duly authorized agent. The record of facts of the proceeding shall become a part of the commission's records.

C. As soon as possible following the acquisition of facts necessary to make a determination, either from the parties' submissions or from a predetermination proceeding, the deputy shall render a determination in writing which shall include the effective date of any qualification or disqualification, the dates of any eligibility or ineligibility, the law or regulation upon which the determination is based, and the reasons for the determination, together with information concerning the filing of an appeal. This determination shall be promptly mailed to the parties at their last known addresses.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR300-01-8 § 1, eff. December 14, 1994; amended, Volume 18, Issue 26, eff. November 3, 2002.

Statutory Authority

§ 60.2-111 of the Code of Virginia.