u/Cold-Example9148 — reddlx

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for advice or shared experiences. I filed my STEM OPT extension with Premium Processing back on March 2, 2026.

Despite filing with PP, I still haven't received a receipt number. My legal team confirmed the filing was submitted, but USCIS hasn't updated anything. By my count, it’s been over 45 business days, which is far past the guaranteed 30-day window for PP action.

My Situation:

Filing Date: March 2, 2026 (Premium Processing)
Status: Stalled / No Receipt Number received yet.
Previous Experience: My 2025 OPT was approved in 4 days with PP, so this delay is unexpected.

I’m already working with my DSO to expedite due to travel and documentation hardships, but I wanted to see if anyone else who filed in early March is seeing this kind of "black hole" behavior from USCIS.

Questions:

Has anyone else who filed in early March still not received a receipt notice?
If you were stuck for over 30 business days, did you successfully request a refund of the $1,685 PP fee?
Did reaching out through a DSO actually help move the needle for anyone here?

Any insight would be a huge help. Thanks!