EAD help!!

[h1gc]

I have a valid h1b visa. Does it make sense to apply for EAD? What are the benefits of just keeping EAD and not using it?

thanks in advance

 

[gcinjan2003]

EAD is kind of a safety net, if lose your job then H1 is not valid after 10 days. With EAD you can find another job and continue with your green card (as long as 180 days have passed since the receipt of I-485 application)

 

[eternity]

EAD Vs H1

When you switch to EAD(using I9) your H1 automatically expires,
With H1 you also have the ability to travel (ofcourse you need a stamping on your PP)But unlike H1, EAD has absolutely no restrictions as to which employer you can work for and how much salary you can earn ( except for the expiry date.)

Unless you need to change Employer after 180 days of filing 485
or your GC sposoring employer is unwilling to renew H1 , EAD is not necessary.

Most people apply for a EAD as a safety precaution incase they loose job. Just having a EAD does not cancel your H1 !