UPDATE: ULP called me back and agreed to take my case! They're assigning me an attorney who specializes in "voluntary quit" cases. I have a meeting with them next week to go through all my evidence. They said based on what I described, I have a decent chance of winning my appeal, especially since I have texts showing I tried to work with my employer on the schedule issue before leaving. Thanks everyone for your advice! I'll post another update after my hearing to let you know how it goes. For anyone facing a similar situation, definitely reach out to ULP as soon as possible!

Congratulations Emma! So glad ULP was able to take your case. Just wanted to add that when you meet with your attorney, make sure to bring any documentation of your childcare arrangement too - like contracts with your daycare provider, their operating hours, pickup/dropoff policies, etc. This helps establish that the schedule change created a legitimate conflict you couldn't resolve. Also, if you have any medical records showing stress or health impacts from the impossible schedule, that can sometimes strengthen a "good cause" argument. The key is showing you made reasonable attempts to accommodate the new schedule but it was genuinely impossible due to circumstances beyond your control. Rooting for you at your hearing! ULP attorneys really know their stuff when it comes to these voluntary quit cases.

Final thought - document everything! Keep copies of all your weekly claim submissions, records of business income, job search activities, everything. If Washington ESD ever questions your claims later, you'll need proof of what you reported and when.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago when I started freelance writing while collecting unemployment. The most important things I learned: 1) You absolutely must report ALL income from your business activities, even if it's just $20 that week, 2) Keep meticulous records of both your business income AND your job search activities - I use a simple spreadsheet for both, 3) The $5 exemption only applies to the first $5 you earn each week, after that it's dollar-for-dollar reduction in benefits. I actually found that having some business income helped me feel more productive during my job search, and it eventually led to networking opportunities that helped me find my current full-time position. Just be completely transparent with Washington ESD and you'll be fine. Also, consider setting aside some money for taxes on your business income since they won't withhold anything like a regular employer would.

One more thing - if you do qualify and start receiving benefits, keep detailed records of all your job search activities. Washington ESD can audit your claim and ask for proof of your job search efforts.

Bottom line - you won't know for sure until you apply. Since you had that W-2 employment last year, it's definitely worth trying. The worst they can say is no, but you might be pleasantly surprised.

One last tip - if you do end up needing to call Washington ESD, try calling right when they open or during lunch hours. Sometimes the wait times are shorter then. Though that Claimyr service people mentioned sounds like it might be easier.

This has been such an informative thread! As someone who works in HR, I see situations like this more often than you'd think. One thing I'd add is to make sure you document your layoff thoroughly - get everything in writing from your employer about the reason for termination, your last day of work, and any benefits continuation. Washington ESD will want to verify that it was indeed an involuntary separation, especially since the timing coincides with your maternity leave. Having clear documentation will help avoid any delays or complications with your claim. Also, don't forget to ask about COBRA continuation for your health insurance - you'll want coverage during your recovery period regardless of which benefits you end up receiving.

One last tip - screenshot or save confirmation numbers from every step. If something goes wrong later, having those reference numbers can save you a lot of headache when dealing with Washington ESD.

I went through this exact same situation last year with a construction layoff. The key thing is to file your claim the Sunday after your last day of work - that way you're officially unemployed and can start the clock on your waiting week. Don't file before your last day because that can cause issues, but don't wait too long either. I filed the Sunday after my Friday layoff and everything went smoothly. Make sure you have your employer info, Social Security card, and last few pay stubs ready when you file. The online system at esd.wa.gov works better than trying to call, especially on weekends when it's less busy. Also start thinking about your job search strategy now because you'll need to document 3 job search activities per week once you start filing weekly claims.