I was laid off from my full-time job on March 31, 2026, and I applied for unemployment insurance (UI) on May 17th after a long interview process that didn't lead anywhere. I received my severance and was approved for UI, which I started receiving right away. In the meantime, I took a substitute teaching position at a local school, which allowed me to earn some income while still receiving UI, albeit reduced by my substitute pay. However, after June 11, 2026, which was the last day of school, I found myself in a tough spot. I was denied any further UI payments because they couldn't determine why I was no longer employed, despite the fact that I was still unemployed. I filled out the necessary forms to clarify my situation, but I was still denied UI benefits for the summer months, leaving me with no income at all. Now, I have a hearing scheduled for tomorrow, and I'm feeling anxious about it. I'm hoping to get some advice on how to present my case effectively and what I should focus on to improve my chances of receiving the benefits I need.