Guys,

I need help with CPT/OPT please....if you have any experience on this matter, please share - would appreciate it.

On CPT right now, which is expiring soon. Already have filed OPT application for OPT, which is in process (OPT hasnt been approved yet). My question is, if OPT is not approved before CPT expires, does USCIS authorize to work legally, with only OPT application receipt while OPT application is pending?

Thank you for sharing your experience.

You must need to have OPT to work. OPT receipt won't allow you to work legally.

 As said, you shud have OPT card in had to do work on OPT. Even if the OPT is approved but you have not received the card, you can't do the work till you get the card. 

above comments are true but there can be an alternative....

The fact is you can't be on payroll for the period starting the expiration date of CPT till u get your OPT.  That being said you have to temporarily stop working or if your company agrees you can keep working and not run the payroll for that duration and get paid later when you have your EAD card.  but for this to happen you need your company's support...... talk to your manager, things may not be in his/her hands but they can talk to payroll department if that is possible.   Once you get your EAD card, you can get paid as "Bonus" or something to be added to your first paycheck(after your receive ur EAD) along with that pay period.

if the company wants they can do it for you and it won't be on records anywhere that you worked but you will get paid for the hours you worked during that period. but if the company have strict policies then you have to be temporarily out of work. enjoy your holidays :)