My work permit (EAD) is expiring and my case is still pending — what do I do?

File the renewal (I-765) as early as USCIS allows, typically up to 180 days before expiration — don't wait until it's close. In my experience, this is one of the most common avoidable stress points: people wait too long and end up with an employment authorization gap that could have been prevented with an earlier filing.