Waiting on your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can feel endless, but knowing how to check your status can make the waiting time more manageable.
Your EAD proves you’re allowed to work in the U.S., and once you file Form I-765, USCIS makes it possible to track your case.
So let’s break this down.
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Start With Your Receipt Number
Everything begins here. After USCIS receives your application, they send Form I-797C. It’s a notice that includes your 13-character receipt number. The number usually starts with letters like EAC, LIN, SRC, WAC, or IOE.
That number is your access key.
To check your status, ensure you enter it exactly as shown for it to work.
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Use the Official USCIS Case Status Tool
You don’t need any third-party trackers.
The USCIS Case Status Online page is the most accurate place to check your EAD status. Just enter your receipt number and review the update.
You’ll likely see messages like:
- Case Was Received
- Biometrics Appointment Scheduled
- Request for Evidence Sent
- Case Approved
- Card Was Mailed
Each one tells you what stage you’re in and what to expect next.
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Create a USCIS Online Account
This step helps more than people realize.
With a USCIS account, you can:
- Track multiple cases in one place
- Get email or text updates
- Respond to RFEs online if requested.
It saves time and reduces panic refreshing.
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Turn On Alerts
Alerts are helpful.
Enable email and text notifications so you know when your status changes. Add USCIS to your safe sender list so messages don’t land in your spam folder.
However, ensure you still check manually from time to time. Some updates don’t trigger alerts, and you don’t want to miss an RFE.
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Check Processing Times
Your case status and processing times are different things.
USCIS publishes estimated timelines for Form I-765 by category and service center. This helps you know what’s normal and what’s not.
If your case is outside the posted range, you may be able to submit a service request.
But remember that processing times are estimates, not exact durations.
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Know When to Contact USCIS
If your EAD status hasn’t changed in months, or something looks off, you can contact USCIS directly.
The National Customer Service Center can review your case. Have your receipt number ready.
Research on appropriate call hours to increase your chances of the call going through.
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Understand Status UpdatesandAct Fast
Some updates require action. Others don’t.
Here’s how to read them:
- RFE issued – – USCIS needs more documents. Respond quickly. Delays slow everything.
- Biometrics scheduled – Attend your appointment as scheduled. Missing it can pause your case.
- Card produced or mailed – Approval doesn’t mean instant delivery. Mailing can take extra time.
Keep your documents organized, such as receipts, notices, and emails. When you need to follow up, having everything ready makes things easier.
Do You Need Clarity While Your EAD Is Pending?
If your EAD status feels confusing or you’re unsure what your case update means, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
At ImmigrationQuestion.com, you can post your immigration questions FREE and get answers from licensed U.S. immigration attorneys. It’s a space built to reduce confusion; having the right legal insight can save you time and stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I check my EAD status?
Once or twice a week is enough. Daily checks don’t speed things up and only add stress.
2. Can I work while my EAD is pending?
You must wait until your EAD is approved and in hand, unless you qualify for an automatic extension.
3. What if my EAD status hasn’t updated in a long time?
Check processing times first. If you’re outside the normal range, you can submit a USCIS service request or call customer service.
4. Does an RFE mean my case will be denied?
It means USCIS needs more information. Many cases are approved after an RFE.
5. How long after approval will I get my EAD card?
It could take some weeks. USCIS may need time to produce and mail the card.
6. Can I check my EAD status without a USCIS account?
You only need your receipt number. But a USCIS account gives you better tracking and alerts.
7. How long does it usually take for an EAD status check to show updates?
Status updates can take weeks, even months, to appear. USCIS does not update cases daily, so gaps between updates are normal.
8. Can I travel while my EAD application is pending?
Travel may affect your application depending on your underlying status. It’s important to confirm this with a licensed immigration attorney before leaving the U.S.
9. Do I need a lawyer to check my EAD status?
No, but an attorney can help explain delays, RFEs, or next steps if your case becomes complicated.
10. Where can I ask questions about my specific EAD situation?
You can post your question FREE on ImmigrationQuestion.com and get responses from licensed U.S. immigration attorneys.
