I received my first-time H4 EAD card, but my H4 I-539 extension is still pending. Can I get my SSN and start working?
You can use your approved Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to start working and to get your Social Security number. However, USCIS officially states that they do not approve an EAD application until after they make a decision on your underlying H-4 extension.
You can cross this worry off your list. Social Security relies on your EAD card itself to prove your status and your right to work.
You asked if you can get your Social Security number (SSN) and start working while your Form I-539 extension is pending. You can use your approved EAD to prove your right to work. However, your situation conflicts with standard processing rules.
Officially, USCIS states they will not make a decision on your Form I-765 (your EAD application) until after they adjudicate your Form I-539 to determine if you are eligible for the underlying H-4 status.
For your SSN, the Social Security Administration (SSA) accepts your EAD (Form I-766) as proof of your immigration status and your authorization to work in the U.S. Because the EAD is the more recently issued document, SSA relies on it as evidence of your current lawful status.
