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Your Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) Appeal, Explained
Also called: MSPB Appeal, e-Appeal Online
Last reviewed 2026-07-11
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What this notice usually means
An MSPB appeal challenges certain agency decisions. This can include a removal, a demotion, or a RIF action. You must file within 30 calendar days. Count from the effective date, or from when you got the agency's decision. Use whichever date is later. If day 30 falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next working day. The Board then decides if your appeal has merit.
What to do now
- 1
Find your two possible deadline dates
Your 30 day clock starts from whichever is later: the effective date of the action, or the date you received the agency's decision. Use your own letter to find both dates.
- 2
File through an allowed method only
MSPB accepts appeals by mail, fax, overnight delivery, or personal delivery. You can also file through e-Appeal Online. Email is not allowed.
- 3
Ask about Alternative Dispute Resolution if you want more time
If you and your agency both agree in writing to try Alternative Dispute Resolution first, the 30 day deadline extends to 60 days. One side alone cannot make this happen.
- 4
File with the right regional or field office
File with the MSPB office that serves your duty station area. There is one exception. OPM retirement or suitability cases go to the office serving where you live.
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You generally have 30 calendar days to file. Count from the effective date, or from when you got the agency's decision. Use whichever date is later. If day 30 falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next working day.
“An appeal must be filed within 30 calendar days of the effective date of the action, if any, or within 30 calendar days after the date of receipt of the agency's decision, whichever is later.”
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Sources
- U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB)Retrieved 2026-07-11
Last reviewed 2026-07-11
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