EAD (WorkPermit)

My Mexican citizen husband and I started the I485 application process in July 2007. According to processing dates on USCIS's website, we should have received his permit to work more than 4 weeks ago. Everytime we contact USCIS, we are told a different story--that the permit will take 3 more months, that the permit will come within a week, that we need to speak with a local officer, that there's nothing we can do--the story is never the same. We are frustrated beyond all belief and had NO idea when we were married in June what kind of wait was ahead for us. We are now contemplating moving to Mexico so he can begin working, as we're having a difficult time making ends meet on my part-time income. I am an American citizen and have never felt so little help, interest, support, or care from my country. We have felt completely alone in this process with our hands tied. If you are in the same situation, our deepest sympathies are with you. Like you, we have checked our mailbox day after day after day, and we know the frustration and depression that comes when able-bodied, able-minded immigrants cannot use their talents in this country to work legally. In fact, we have felt penalized by the system for doing this the legal way. We will not get a fake SSN, but it has been the most frustrating experience of our lives to wait for our EAD while illegal workers are bringing income to their homes and food to their tables. The immigration system of the United States is in SERIOUS need of reform. Good luck to you.. wish this post could have been more optimistic. That's up to USCIS, apparently.