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Can I get EDD unemployment if I quit my job to care for my newborn? Need advice on explaining to EDD

Hey everyone, I'm in a bit of a pickle. I recently quit my job to take care of my newborn baby because we don't have any other childcare options. Now I'm wondering if I can get unemployment benefits. Does anyone know if quitting for family reasons like this qualifies? I'm worried because I've heard you usually can't get unemployment if you quit voluntarily. Any advice on how to explain this to EDD when I call them?

Tom Maxon

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I found a way to solve unemployment after quitting for childcare, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_CQCqtjt_4

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Carmen Lopez

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Congrats on the new baby! šŸŽ‰ As for unemployment, it's tricky when you quit, but not impossible. Here's what you need to know: • Generally, voluntarily quitting disqualifies you from unemployment • BUT there are exceptions for "good cause" • Taking care of a family member (including a newborn) can sometimes qualify as good cause • You'll need to explain your situation clearly to EDD • Be prepared to provide documentation (birth certificate, proof of no other childcare options, etc.) • Emphasize that you had no other choice but to quit • Be honest about your willingness to work if childcare becomes available When you call EDD, be polite but firm. Explain that you had to quit due to lack of childcare options for your newborn. Ask about the specific criteria for "good cause" in family care situations. Good luck!

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Andre Dupont

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This is really helpful info! Do you know if there's a specific form or process for claiming "good cause" when you quit?

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Carmen Lopez

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There isn't a specific "good cause" form, but you'll need to explain your situation in detail during the initial claim process. Be prepared to provide a written statement if they request it. Keep any relevant documents handy!

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I went thru this last year. Make sure u have EVERYTHING documented. They'll ask for proof of birth, why other family members cant help, etc. Be ready for a fight šŸ˜“

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Hate to be the bearer of bad news, but quitting for any reason usually means no unemployment. The system is rigged against us parents 😔

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Jamal Wilson

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Not necessarily true. There are exceptions for certain family situations. It's worth a shot at least!

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Maybe, but EDD is such a nightmare to deal with. Good luck getting anyone on the phone who actually knows the rules šŸ™„

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Mei Lin

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I found a way to actually get someone on the phone at EDD! I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video explaining it: https://youtu.be/DOLxZQb92wM

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Sounds too good to be true. Is this legit? Has anyone else tried it?

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Mei Lin

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100% legit. I was skeptical too, but it saved me hours of hold time. Worth every penny imo

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20 bucks to skip the hold time? Sign me up! šŸ’ø EDD's hold music was driving me insane

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have you looked into Paid Family Leave (PFL) instead of unemployment? Might be a better fit for your situation

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NebulaNinja

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ugh, i feel for you. I'm in the same boat with my 3 month old. Childcare is so expensive, sometimes it feels like we're punished for having kids 😫

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Yuki Ito

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Right?? It's crazy how little support there is for new parents. How are you managing?

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NebulaNinja

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Barely hanging in there tbh. Family helps when they can, but it's a constant juggling act. Hoping to find a WFH job soon šŸ¤ž

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Pro tip: When you call EDD, use the magic words "compelling family obligation." That's the official term they use for situations like yours. Also, be ready to explain why your spouse can't be the primary caregiver instead.

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Yuki Ito

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This is super helpful, thank you! I'll definitely use that phrase when I call.

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lol good luck getting anyone at EDD to pick up the phone. I've been trying for weeks 🤔

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Try calling right when they open. I got through after only 30 mins on hold that way!

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30 mins? You must be some kind of EDD whisperer šŸ˜‚

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