Form I-765 · Employment Authorization
Renew or Replace Your Employment Authorization Document
An expired EAD means your employer cannot legally keep you on payroll. Attorney Goncalves files I-765 renewals and replacements on time, tracks automatic extension eligibility, and resolves category code errors that cause rejections.
The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is the card that proves to employers you are authorized to work in the United States. Unlike a green card, most EADs expire on a specific date and must be renewed before that date to avoid an interruption in work authorization.
Form I-765 is used for both renewals and replacements, but selecting the wrong eligibility category is one of the most common reasons USCIS rejects applications. Attorney Goncalves matches your current immigration status to the correct category code and files with enough lead time for processing.
When to File Your EAD Renewal
Timing matters — file too early and USCIS rejects; file too late and you lose work authorization.
180 days before expiration
Earliest you may file a renewal I-765. USCIS rejects filings more than 180 days before expiration.
90–120 days before expiration
Recommended filing window. Allows time for USCIS processing before your current card expires.
After expiration
Late filing may still be accepted but you lose work authorization until the new EAD arrives unless automatic extension applies.
Automatic 180-Day EAD Extension
Certain categories qualify for continued work authorization while renewal is pending.
If you file a timely renewal in an eligible category and USCIS has not adjudicated your application before your current EAD expires, you may continue working for up to 180 days with your expired card plus the I-797C receipt notice.
Renewal vs. Replacement
Renewal — Before Your Card Expires
A renewal extends your existing work authorization for another period. You must still be in the same qualifying status that supported your original EAD.
- • Same eligibility category as prior approval
- • Copy of current or recently expired EAD
- • Copy of underlying status document (I-797, I-94, etc.)
- • Two passport-style photos
Replacement — Lost, Stolen, or Incorrect Cards
Replacements use a different I-765 filing basis. We document the reason for replacement and attach supporting evidence.
- • Card never received from USCIS (check tracking first)
- • Lost or stolen card (police report recommended)
- • Name change after marriage or court order
- • USCIS printing error on name or dates
- • Damaged or mutilated card
Documentation for Employers During Processing
What Your Employer Needs to Keep You on Payroll
- Copy of your expired EAD (front and back)
- I-797C receipt notice showing timely I-765 renewal filing
- Proof of eligibility category for automatic extension under 8 CFR §274a.12
- Updated Form I-9 with List A or List C documentation as applicable
- For some categories: copy of pending underlying application receipt (I-485, I-589, I-821D)
- Letter from immigration attorney confirming automatic extension eligibility (optional but helpful)
Common EAD Renewal Problems
Processing Times and What to Expect
USCIS EAD processing currently averages 3–7 months depending on the service center and category. We monitor your case online and request expedited processing when you face job loss, employer deadline, or severe financial hardship.
After approval, your new EAD card is mailed to the address on file. If you move during processing, update your address with USCIS immediately using Form AR-11 and your online USCIS account.
EAD Renewal Questions
Can I keep working if my EAD expires before the renewal arrives?+
Only if you filed timely in an eligible category and qualify for the automatic 180-day extension. Otherwise, you must stop working when your card expires.
Do I need a new EAD if I change employers?+
No. The EAD authorizes you to work for any employer in the United States. It is not employer-specific unless issued under certain restricted categories.
My EAD was denied — what are my options?+
We review the denial notice, determine whether you can file a motion to reopen or reconsider, and evaluate whether your underlying immigration status supports a new application.
Can I expedite my EAD renewal?+
USCIS grants expedite requests for severe financial loss, humanitarian reasons, or USCIS error. We prepare expedite requests with supporting documentation.
Keep Your Work Authorization Current
Don't risk an employment gap. We track your EAD expiration and file with enough lead time for USCIS processing.