The amount an employer budgets for dependent paperwork does not decide the spouse’s work rules. Review the actual status evidence instead of assuming a quoted EAD service is always necessary.
Ask what each preparation charge is intended to accomplish
Separate assistance obtaining dependent status from an employment-authorization application or other administrative work. A qualifying spouse with valid L status may be employment-authorized incident to that status with appropriate documentation; an EAD is not universally required. Ask the preparer to explain the purpose of any proposed filing in this person’s circumstances. L dependent eligibility covers a spouse or unmarried child under 21, but children do not acquire the spouse’s work benefit even if the employer pays identical relocation charges. Keep the invoice and the evidence of permission in different files: one proves a purchased service, the other supports the activity the spouse plans to undertake.
Keep the child out of commercial assignments unless an independent lawful basis permits them, and structure genuine school projects through the school rather than the employer. An unmarried partner cannot hold L-2 and would need their own basis to enter and remain, such as visitor admission for short stays or an independent work or study status.