my cousin works at EDD and says they're way behind on everything right now just FYI

Just wanted to add - I'm also an adjunct (at a private college) and went through this same classification confusion last year. Definitely go with "Private Employer" as others have said. One thing that helped me was having all my employment documentation ready before starting the application - pay stubs, contract letters, etc. The system might ask for verification later and having everything organized made the process smoother. Also, if you taught at multiple institutions, you'll need to list each one separately as different employers. Good luck with your claim!

PSA: If you're having trouble with your claim, contact your local assemblymember's office. They can often help expedite things!

Same situation here! Just went through this last month. First thing - log into your EDD account and check your benefit year end date. If it hasn't passed yet, you might get an automatic extension. If it has passed, you'll need to file a new claim. Pro tip: even if your balance shows $0, keep certifying every two weeks - sometimes extensions kick in automatically and you don't want to miss any weeks. The whole process is confusing but don't lose hope!

FYI - just so you're prepared - when you certify and report income, your payment can be delayed that week while they review it. Happened to me several times when I was doing Uber on the side. Sometimes got stuck in pending for 3-5 days instead of getting paid right away.

Just wanted to add something important that hasn't been mentioned yet - keep detailed records of ALL your 1099 work! Save screenshots of your TaskRabbit earnings, dates you worked, and any communication with clients. EDD can audit your claim at any time, and having documentation makes everything much smoother if they have questions. Also, since you're doing gig work, you might want to set aside about 25-30% of those earnings for taxes. As a 1099 worker, you're responsible for paying self-employment tax on top of regular income tax. It's not related to your UI benefits, but it'll save you stress come tax time! One more tip - if any of your TaskRabbit gigs turn into regular recurring work with the same client, that could potentially be considered "suitable work" that you might be required to continue. Just something to keep in mind as you balance gig work with your job search.

Just wanted to update that I won my appeal in a similar situation. The key was having detailed medical documentation that specifically stated my family member required my personal care and a doctor's note explaining why my work schedule was incompatible with providing that care. The judge was actually quite understanding once all the medical evidence was presented. Good luck with your appeal!

I'm so sorry you're going through this difficult situation. As someone who has navigated the EDD system before, I want to emphasize a few key points that others have touched on: 1. **Documentation is everything** - Get a comprehensive letter from your daughter's neurologist that specifically states she requires your full-time care due to her autism and seizures. The letter should detail why her condition makes it impossible for you to maintain a traditional work schedule. 2. **Frame your appeal correctly** - Focus exclusively on your daughter's medical needs and care requirements, not on the financial aspects or desire for better pay. EDD views "voluntary quit for better wages" very differently than "voluntary quit for compelling family circumstances." 3. **Timeline matters** - Document exactly when her condition worsened and how this coincided with your inability to continue working your scheduled shifts. Show that this was a medical necessity, not a choice. 4. **Don't give up** - Many initial denials get overturned on appeal when proper documentation is provided. The fact that you're a healthcare worker who understands medical needs may actually work in your favor during the hearing. Also, definitely look into IHSS as someone mentioned - you might be able to get paid for providing her care while you search for more flexible employment. Wishing you the best with your appeal!

One important thing to remember: Even if you lose your second level appeal, you still have options. You can request an Overpayment Waiver if repayment would cause extraordinary hardship and your overpayment wasn't due to fraud. There's a specific form for this (DE 1446W). Many people don't know about this option.

I'm in a similar situation and just wanted to share some encouragement. I'm currently caring for my disabled spouse and had to refuse a job that required travel 50% of the time. EDD initially said I should have taken it, but I won my first level appeal by emphasizing that California law specifically protects caregivers under the "suitable work" provisions. The key is showing that your caregiving duties aren't just a preference - they're a necessity that makes certain work schedules genuinely unsuitable. Document everything about your mother's care needs and your role as her sole caregiver. The fact that it was night shifts makes your case even stronger since that would literally prevent you from providing necessary care. Don't give up - the second level appeal is definitely worth pursuing, especially with the specific legal arguments others have mentioned here.