What the employment authorization number is and why it matters
The Employment Authorization Number (EAN) is a unique identifier issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows a noncitizen to work legally in the United States. Also known as the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) number, it is printed on work authorization documents given to eligible applicants, including students, spouses of certain visa holders, asylees, and others. USCIS uses this number to track work authorization cases and to help employers verify that a worker is authorized to accept employment in the United States.
For workers, the EAN is needed when starting a new job, completing I-9 employment eligibility verification, opening a bank account, or applying for additional benefits. Because it appears on official government cards and documents, it is essential to know where to locate the number and understand which agencies manage work authorization. This guide explains where to find your employment authorization number, how it appears on key documents, and how to request replacements if needed.
Where to find the EAN on your physical documents
Your EAN is most commonly found on the front of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. The number is typically located in the upper portion of the card, often in the same area as your photo, name, and biographical details. On older paper I-766 cards, the number usually appears in the top right corner, while newer plastic EAD cards place the EAN prominently near the top under the issuing office information. In addition to the physical card, your EAN is also listed on any approval notices or receipts issued by USCIS that relate to your work authorization application.
Employers are required to record the EAN on Form I-9 when verifying identity and work authorization. If you have an approved Form I-766 application or an interim EAD, the number used to begin work may differ from the final card number, and employers should follow USCIS instructions for reconciliation. USCIS also provides online account access through the USCIS Online Account platform, where applicants and beneficiaries can view case details and, in some situations, see their EAN listed alongside their case status.
Physical EAD card layout
On a standard Employment Authorization Document, the EAN is printed in clear alphanumeric format and labeled as the "Employment Authorization Number." It is usually positioned near the top of the card, often adjacent to the issuing office code and receipt number. The card also displays your name, photograph, date of birth, and expiration date, all of which should match your underlying immigration status or application.
USCIS notices and electronic records
Approval notices for work authorization applications, whether issued by mail or through the online account, will include the EAN when work authorization has been granted. In some cases, such as with advance parole or certain employment-based adjustments, related documents may reference a work authorization number or USCIS file number that is distinct from the EAN. It is important to verify that the number on any work authorization document matches the EAN issued by USCIS to avoid delays when employers or agencies verify your status.
Where the EAN is stored and used in government systems
USCIS maintains work authorization records in its Case Information Summary (CIS) system, and the EAN is linked to the corresponding case file. When you create an account on the USCIS Online Account portal, you can view your cases, notices, and biographical information, and in some instances, the EAN appears within this secure view. However, not all users will see the EAN displayed in the online account, depending on case type and the nature of the work authorization.
For employers, the EAN is entered on the Section 1 of Form I-9, and cross-checked against other identifying information. E-Verify participants may also use the EAN to link work authorization in the E-Verify system. Federal agencies and partners that handle immigration data rely on consistent and accurate use of the EAN to avoid mismatches and ensure compliance. Because of this, it is important for both employees and employers to confirm the exact EAN on the official document rather than assuming it matches other numbers, such as the Alien Registration Number (A-Number) or USCIS case number.
How the EAN differs from other immigration identification numbers
Several identification numbers can appear on immigration documents, and it is important to distinguish the EAN from others. The Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is a permanent identifier assigned by USCIS and does not change, whereas the EAN is specific to work authorization and may change if you receive a new EAD. The USCIS case number is tied to a specific application or process, while the EAN applies only when work authorization has been granted. Nonimmigrant workers may have different identifiers depending on status, but the EAN is reserved for those explicitly authorized to work.
Because multiple numbers may appear on a single document, always check the label and context. On EAD cards, the number field is explicitly marked as Employment Authorization Number. On forms and notices, similar numbers may be labeled differently or listed alongside other case details. When in doubt, confirm the correct number with USCIS or your employer to ensure you are providing the right information for work authorization purposes.
What to do if you cannot locate the EAN or need a replacement
If your EAD has been lost, stolen, or damaged, or if you never received a physical card after approval, you may need to file a replacement request with USCIS. The process typically involves submitting Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with the required fee and evidence, depending on your situation. In some instances, USCIS may issue an interim EAD while the replacement is processed, and the interim document will include its own number.
You can check the status of replacement requests through your USCIS Online Account and, if necessary, contact the USCIS Contact Center for case-specific guidance. Because work authorization is time-sensitive, plan for possible delays and keep records of any correspondence. Employers should not accept numbers from unofficial sources, and employees should rely only on official USCIS documentation when providing their EAN.
Quick reference: Where the EAN appears and how to verify it
- On the front of your EAD card, typically near the top under issuing details and photo.
- On USCIS approval notices or receipts for work authorization applications.
- In your USCIS Online Account under case details, when available and applicable.
- Never on unrelated documents such as passports, visas, or travel records.
Summary table: Key facts about the employment authorization number
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A unique identifier issued by USCIS that permits noncitizens to work legally in the United States. | USCIS policy and regulations |
| Common location on EAD | Front of the card, near the top, often adjacent to name and issuing office information. | USCIS card design documentation and specimen cards |
| Also known as | EAD number or Employment Authorization Document number. | USCIS terminology references |
| Used for I-9 verification | Yes; entered in Section 1 of Form I-9 when authorizing employment. | U.S. Department of Homeland Security I-9 guidance |
| Can differ from case number | The EAN applies only when work authorization is granted and may differ from USCIS case or A-Number. | USCIS eligibility and documentation guidance |
| Replacement process | File Form I-90 with fee and necessary evidence; interim EAD may be issued. | USCIS Form I-90 instructions and policy |
When and how to share your employment authorization number
Provide your EAN when completing Form I-9, submitting E-Verify information, or when an employer, financial institution, or government agency specifically requests it for work authorization purposes. Do not share the number indiscriminately, and only provide it to organizations that have a legitimate need to verify work eligibility. If you are asked for the EAN in other contexts, confirm why it is needed and how it will be used to protect your personal information.
Keep your EAD and other supporting documents in a secure place, and report lost or stolen cards to USCIS promptly. Because work eligibility can depend on the validity of your authorization, monitor your case status and expiration dates so that you can renew or replace your EAD before it lapses. Understanding where to find the employment authorization number—and how it fits into the broader immigration and employment framework—helps you maintain compliant work status in the United States.