USPS Misdelivered EAD, How to do I-9 Verification for new job?

[hopefuldame23]

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for advice from anyone who has been in a similar situation.

My H-4 EAD was approved, but the physical EAD card was misdelivered by USPS to the wrong address, and I never received it. I only found out later after checking archived USPS tracking. USCIS advised me to file a replacement I-765, which I’ve already done, and I also submitted an expedite request (still in review) due to employment impact and medical/insurance concerns.

I now have:

• EAD approval notice
• Replacement I-765 receipt (I-797C)

My employer uses Fragomen for I-9 verification. They told me they prefer the physical EAD card or a digital image of the original card to match against the receipt, and since I never had the card, they asked to wait until closer to my start date. They said if the card still hasn’t arrived, they’ll work with legal to find a workaround based on the replacement receipt and documentation.


Questions for anyone who’s been through this:

1. Has anyone successfully completed I-9 using only the replacement EAD receipt under the I-9 receipt rule when the card was never received?
2. How long did your replacement EAD take after filing (especially if you requested expedite)?
3. Did your employer accept the receipt temporarily, or did legal/compliance need to get involved?

This is stressful because my work authorization exists, but the physical document was lost due to mailing error, and I’m worried about timing even though I’ve followed all USCIS steps.

Any experiences or tips would really help. Thank you!

[Joyce922Gaut]

Hello!
Under I‑9 rules, a receipt for a replacement EAD can be used for up to 90 days if the original card was lost, stolen, or damaged, but many employers—especially those working with Fragomen—prefer to wait for the physical card or get legal confirmation before onboarding. Replacement EADs usually take 2–4 months, though expedited requests may shorten this to a few weeks. Keeping your approval notice, replacement receipt, and documentation ready while coordinating closely with your employer’s legal team is the best way to manage timing.

[sjowam12]

I admire your proactive approach in filing for a replacement EAD and submitting an expedite request. Your diligence in following up shows great responsibility and commitment to securing your employment.


Edited by plants vs brainrots a day ago