A lawyer charged $750 to file an H-4 EAD application—and it’s raised eyebrows among many who’ve done the same paperwork themselves.
The application form is straightforward. As a matter of fact, people who’ve filed STEM OPT or other EAD applications often say that it’s basically the same—easy, with typical personal information, documentation, and a photo.
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But there’s the rub. If the H-4 EAD is being filed along with an H-1B and H-4 application, timing is of the essence. The applications are filed together, and a small mistake on one would delay all three.
That’s why some prefer to leave it to the attorney—just to keep all of it in sync and trouble-free. It’s not really an issue of complexity; it’s an issue of coordination.
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However, $750 is steep to a lot of people. Especially for something that includes no legal representation, just due paperwork.
Some lawyers offer package deals that include H-1B, H-4, and EAD filing for one, combined fee. Others have per-form charges—bringing the costs to numbers that make individuals think twice.
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The process itself does not depend on legal help, but when paperwork gets assembled to USCIS, a spelling error costs weeks. That is the trade-off.
For the paperwork confident and deadline sure, DIY saves money. For the job juggling, deadline dreading, or just anxious—$750 can buy peace of mind more than anything.
It is not the form. It is what can occur if it is packaged, delayed, or lost.
