I came to to the U.S on F-1 visa (student) in 2008. After which I applied for a social security card and got it. On it, it says "Valid for work only with DHS authorization" I thought that was a "work permit." After my first year of school, I sought off-campus employment and worked from June 2009 to December 2009 when I was having a chat with one of the prof. in my school about my job, then he said that I'm not suppose to be working without "EAD." After few research, I found out it is true. Now I'm about to apply for EAD and am scared since I have already worked, the DHS will found out and I will be out of status. I have stopped working this job since I found out. My question are:
1) Should I forget about filling for the "EAD" and trust God to supply my financial needs for school till I will finish my studies to avoid the DHS finding out and come after me?
2) File for the EAD. Even though I have worked, it will not affect my status?
3) What are the chances I have about applying or not applying for the EAD?
4) Do I have to file for tax on the work I have done or not, what are the implications?
5) I was told to apply for reinstatement. Will this help?
