L1 Extension issue -- Help me URGENT

[reachmeatemail]

Hi,
I hold L1 B visa and both I-94 and petition are expiring on 18-Dec-2011.
My company told that it is filed with USCIS on 30-Nov-2011.
I am asking them for receipt number for filing my extension but they are saying "It will take 3-5 weeks to get the receipt".
They are also saying I can be in US and work for 240 days without having a receipt and they are saying exactly below.

We can issue a letter confirming filing of the extn and that you can stay and work in the US for 240 days beyond expiry of the current I94

My friends are saying that receipt number will come within 10 days of filing the extension. But my company is not agreeing with that.
I am in confusion and do not know what to do whether to stay as company told

Am I legal to work in US without having receipt number from USCIS with me after my I-94/visa expiry date 18-Dec-2011?

Please let me know your comments on this soon.
Thanks.

[rvisak]

Your extension docs need to reach USCIS before your I-94 expiry...if your docs have been received and were e-filed USCIS also issues a confirmation email.

About working for 240 days - unless your petition was recd prior to I-94 expiration any time spent post that is illegal...and there are penalties around accumulating illegal stay.

[kabkaba]

Technically if receipt date is earlier than your I-94, you can work for 240 days like above. I would get the letter from the lawyers/company in any case. A written letter can be used later.
They should get the receipt before Dec 18 anyway I think. It takes 2 weeks or so after physical delivery.