The N.C. Division of Employment Security (DES) can give opinions based on specific situations, according to N.C Gen. Stat. § 96-4(z). These opinions give guidance to people before they act in a way that may not be allowed. The opinions are not binding and do not decide specific cases.

Advisory opinions are DES’s current view of the facts at the time DES sends its advisory opinion.

To get an advisory opinion, you must write the Division Counsel and clearly outline the facts for DES to consider. The Division Counsel may ask you for more information if needed. If you don’t provide the information, the Division Counsel may choose not to issue an opinion. Other facts and information may lead to a different conclusion than what the opinion states.

DES won’t give an opinion if you’re already involved in a legal case with them or the Board of Review about the same issue. DES won’t give an opinion if it could harm its interests in any legal disputes in which it is or may be a party.

To send a request, mail or fax it to:

Mail:

Division Counsel

Legal Services Section
Attn: Advisory Opinions
N.C. Division of Employment Security
P.O. Box 25903
Raleigh, NC 27611-5903

Fax: 919-733-8745