L2 - EAD query

[spraocs]

Hi,

My wife is on L2 visa. She got her SSN in March 2011. Later she applied for the EAD on April 5, 2011. We got the receipt and also the Finger Printing was done on April 28th 2011. But, she has not received the EAD card so far. It is already more than 5 weeks after the biometrics.
I know it takes 3 months for EAD in this category. But, that is the average time.
One of my friends told that his wife with L2 visa got the EAD card within two weeks of biometrics.
Is there any way to know the status other than the online check on USCIS website?
Also, with L2 visa and SSN, can my wife work without EAD? Is EAD mandatory eventhough she has L2 visa and SSN that says she is permitted to work with DHS authorization?

Regards
sprao

[kabkaba]

Unfortunately there is no way to know the status while it remains in normal timeframes. She is not allowed to work without EAD.

[cabinoy]

I agree with kabkaba.
L2 holders cannot work without EAD. SSN says permitted to work with DHS authorization, But DHS authorization is pending in your case.