H1 to H4 change of status

[mala408]

Hi,
I am right now working on H1 b.My job is being terminated on 12/31/2009.I want to apply for cos to h4.When should I be applying for it.Before the h1b expires?One of my friend says that the day you apply you are in that status ie H4.But I have my job till 31st dec.And since from !st jan I would be illegal on H1 ,I need to apply before.Am confused when should we apply

[sk4ih]

You will be on H4 after COS is approved, not the day you applied for it.
Yes, you have to apply before your H1 expires.

[kabkaba]

Application has to reach USCIS before H1 last date.