I797 or I94 - Work Validity?

[johija]

My I-797 (H1b) expires on January 17th, 2014 and my I-94 expires on January 27th, 2014

 

a. In case I don't get my visa extension receipt, can I work till Jan 17th or Jan 27th in my client location? I know I can stay till Jan 27th but can I also work after Jan 17th to Jan 27th.

 

b. If my Visa extension is posted on January 2nd, in regular processing. Is there a good bet I will get my receipt number before Jan 17th? 

 

Thank you!!!

 

[JoeF]

You can work until Jan. 17. You have a 10-day grace period to leave the country. That's why the I-94 is valid until Jan. 27.

This is one of the situations when there is a grace period for somebody on H1: when the H1 expires.

If an H1 extension is filed before Jan. 17, you can continue working.

[johija]

My extension was filed but I did not receive my receipt number. Am I good to work for 240 days post I-94 expiry even if I don't get my extension receipt?