I've decided to submit my resignation tomorrow, effective two weeks from now. I'm going to clearly state in my letter that I'm resigning due to the elimination of my current position and the incompatibility of the new role's hours with my family care responsibilities. I'll apply for EDD benefits immediately after my last day. Thank you all so much for the guidance and support through this stressful situation.

This sounds like a really strong case for unemployment benefits! The fact that your employer is essentially eliminating your position and forcing you into a completely different role with incompatible hours should definitely qualify as "good cause" to quit. I went through something similar when my company restructured and moved me from part-time administrative work to full-time sales. Like you, the new schedule didn't work with my family obligations. EDD approved my claim because I could show that the job fundamentally changed and staying wasn't feasible. Make sure to emphasize in your application that this wasn't just a preference - the new hours make it impossible for you to fulfill your childcare responsibilities. Document everything: the original job description, the new requirements, your attempts to negotiate, and especially that HR communication acknowledging your need to resign. You've got solid documentation and valid reasons. Don't let the initial stress discourage you from applying!

To all those having trouble reaching a human at California Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

For the phone interview, they'll typically call you at the number on file during the scheduled time. Make sure to keep that number updated and available. From what I've seen in this community, some reps are scheduling interviews unnecessarily for PUA claims - you might want to call back and ask to speak with a Tier 2 specialist who can clarify if an interview is actually required for your situation. Don't let one rude rep discourage you from getting the help you deserve!

UPDATE: I just got back from FedExing my hardship request packet to the Appeals Board! I included everything suggested (eviction notice, bank statements, job search logs, and a detailed letter explaining my situation). Now I'm nervous about the wait, but at least I've tried everything possible. Thank you all SO MUCH for the guidance and information. I would have had no idea how to properly request this without your help. I'll update this thread when I hear something back, whether approved or denied. Fingers crossed they see my situation as the legitimate hardship it is.

I'm really hoping this works out for you! I've been following this thread because I'm in a similar situation with penalty weeks, though not as severe as yours. One thing I wanted to add that might help others reading this - when you're putting together your hardship documentation, make sure to include a timeline showing how your financial situation deteriorated specifically because of the penalty weeks. For example, show your account balance before the penalty period started versus now, and connect the dots between losing those unemployment payments and your current crisis. The Appeals Board needs to see that the penalty weeks are the direct cause of your extreme hardship, not just general financial struggles you might have had anyway. Also, if you have any medical conditions or disabilities that make job searching more difficult, document those too. Even if it's just anxiety or depression from the stress of potential eviction, a letter from a doctor can strengthen your case. Really rooting for you - please keep us updated on the outcome!

This is exactly the kind of specific information I was hoping for! Thank you. It helps to know the actual statistics rather than just guessing. I'll try to be patient for the next 8 business days or so.

I went through something very similar last year! My manager also used the exact same language - "temporary layoff" and "eligible for rehire" but couldn't give me any actual reason. It's definitely frustrating when you're left in limbo like that. The good news is that I got approved after about 9 days following my phone interview. What really helped my case was that during the interview, I emphasized that I had asked my manager multiple times for clarification on why I was being let go and she couldn't provide any specific reason. I also mentioned that I had been a good employee with no disciplinary issues. One thing I'd suggest - if you haven't already, try to get something in writing from your employer about the "temporary" nature of the layoff. Even a simple email asking for clarification about when you might be called back could be helpful if your employer tries to contest your claim later. You don't need much, just something that shows their vague communication. Keep certifying every two weeks and hang in there! The waiting is the worst part, but it sounds like you have a solid case.

Just to clarify something important: The Cervisi decision (Cervisi v. California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board) established that community college instructors with no guarantee of employment are eligible for benefits between terms. This precedent has since been extended to K-12 substitute teachers in similar situations. When communicating with EDD, reference California Unemployment Insurance Code Section 1253.3 and emphasize that your work as a substitute is contingent on day-to-day needs with no guarantee of future assignments. Also point out that your compensation varies significantly based on actual assignments received, not a guaranteed salary. This specific language is important when dealing with EDD representatives who may not fully understand the nuances of educator unemployment eligibility.

I went through this exact situation two years ago as a substitute teacher and won my appeal! Here's what worked for me: I documented EVERYTHING - every day I wasn't called to work during the regular school year, my varying daily rates, and the fact that I work for multiple districts with no guaranteed placement at any of them. The key phrase that helped me was emphasizing that substitute teaching is "on-call" work with zero job security. I also contacted my union rep who provided a letter explaining that subs have no contractual protections or guaranteed income. My appeal took about 8 weeks but I got full backpay. Don't give up - the system is definitely stacked against educators but you can win this! Also definitely call 211 for emergency rental assistance while you wait.