Just wanted to add my experience - I took a day trip to Victoria, BC last year while on unemployment and followed the advice here about reporting it. Lost about $85 for that one day (my weekly was around $595) but had zero issues with ESD. The key is being proactive about reporting it rather than hoping they don't find out. Also, I made sure to check my emails and voicemails frequently that day just in case any employers reached out. The peace of mind from being honest was worth way more than the small benefit reduction. Hope you have a great trip with your sister!

One more thing to consider - if you're driving across the border, make sure you have all the proper documentation (enhanced driver's license or passport) and factor in potential wait times at the border crossing when planning your day. I've seen people get stuck in 2-3 hour waits coming back from Vancouver, especially on weekends. You don't want to miss any important calls or emails because you're sitting in border traffic longer than expected. Also, if you have a smartphone plan that doesn't include Canada coverage, consider getting a day pass so you can still receive job-related communications while you're there. The small cost is worth maintaining your availability for urgent employment opportunities.

Whatever you decide, make sure to keep looking for work and filing your weekly claims on time. Don't let financial stress derail your job search. There are solutions out there, you just have to find the right one for your situation.

Another option to consider is checking with your bank about an overdraft line of credit if you have direct deposit set up for your unemployment benefits. Some banks will extend a small credit line based on regular deposits, even if it's unemployment income. The rates are usually better than personal loans and you only pay interest on what you use. Also, if you're comfortable with it, you could try a GoFundMe or ask friends on social media - sometimes people are willing to help with specific needs like car repairs when they can see exactly what the money is for.

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.

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.

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.