Can apply for EAD without I-485 receipt, when........
you have your Alien number (A #).
If you have your LIN # (can be found on the back of your cancelled check for filing fees, if you paid with a personal check), or even if you do not have your LIN#, call INS at NSC and the IIO can pull up your case and give you your LIN# (if you don\'t have it) and A#, just from your name (after verifying date of birth and address).
With the A#, you can apply for EAD by mail, or in person at the local offices which do walk-in EADs.
NOTE - EAD fees went up to $120 effective 2/19/02
Hope that helps.