5 Ways to Check EAD Application Status (2024 Guide)

If you've applied for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you are likely eager to know when your card will arrive. Understanding your application's progress is essential for your peace of mind and ensuring you're on track for employment authorization in the U.S.

Check You're EAD Status Online

One of the fastest ways to check EAD status is through the USCIS Case Status Online tool. You'll need the receipt number from your Form I-765 application, which you can find on the I-797 Notice of Action form, which USCIS should send you to confirm receipt of your application. Simply enter this number into the tool, and it will show your case's current status, such as "Case Received," "Case Approved," or "Card Mailed."

Pro tip: Bookmark the USCIS case status page and check it regularly to stay on top of any updates.

Steps:

• Visit the USCIS Case Status Tool.
• Enter your receipt number (found on Form I-797).
• View your application status.

Create a USCIS Account and Get Notifications

To avoid manually checking your EAD application status, you can set up email and text notifications for automatic updates. You'll have to create an account on the USCIS website and add a link to the case to your profile by providing the receipt number.

Signing up for these alerts through the USCIS Account tool ensures you'll be notified of any changes, including approval or requests for additional information.

Steps:

• Create a new account on the USCIS website.
• Enter your receipt number.
• Click on the notification option to receive updates via text or email.

This method is excellent if you don't want to refresh the status page frequently. Simply, you'll receive a notification as soon as your application's status changes.

Track EAD Status Using a Third-Party Application

There are several cell phone apps that can help you track the status of your USCIS application, and you can find them in your phone's app store. One of the more popular and highly rated is Lawfully USCIS & NVC Case Tracker, which can be installed on an iPhone or Android.

Fun fact: I used this app while waiting for my EAD card and, eventually, my green card approval.

App Features:

• Track the status of your EAD application.
• Get notifications when your case status changes.
• Easily access you're receipt number and case history.

You can download the app directly from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Chat with Emma - USCIS Virtual Assistant

USCIS offers a virtual assistant named Emma, who can significantly help. Emma is an AI-powered chatbot that can answer common questions about immigration processes, including EAD applications. You can find Emma on the USCIS website in the lower-left corner, where she's available 24/7 to quickly respond to your queries. Additionally, during business hours, you can ask Emma to connect you with a Live Agent and chat with them in either English or Spanish. Emma is particularly useful for those who prefer a more interactive experience than browsing through static web pages.

Key Information about Emma:

• You can chat with Emma in both English and Spanish.
• It might be the easiest and fastest way to chat with a live agent, albeit virtually.

Call USCIS Customer Service

If you don't want to install a new app on your phone or set up accounts on the USCIS website, it might be too complicated, so the agency provides a phone number of 1-800. You can contact the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. Remember, have your receipt number (yeap the same as earlier mentioned from I-797) ready when you call, as the representative will need it to access your case. While you may encounter hold times, this method provides a chance to ask specific questions about your EAD status that may not be covered online.

Key Information About the Helpline:

• 1-800-375-5283 is a toll-free number - you won't have to pay for the connection.
• The line is open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 8 pm Eastern Time.
• The 1-800 number is unavailable outside the U.S. If you're in a foreign country, call 212-620-3418.
• As a reminder, the wait time might be very long.

This is a useful option if you're online case status isn't updating or you need additional clarification on you're application.

Conclusion

Waiting for you're Employment Authorization Document can be stressful, but knowing how to check your EAD status efficiently can ease that anxiety. Whether you prefer using online tools, mobile apps, or contacting USCIS directly, there are multiple ways to stay informed about your case.

For more tips on navigating the immigration process, check back with our blog and other resources regularly for updated resources and guides.