Case Status Online
The USCIS tool that shows the latest step on your case when you enter your receipt number.
Case status online is the USCIS tool where you type your receipt number and see the most recent action on your case, like "Case Was Received," "Fingerprints Were Taken," or "Case Was Approved."
It tells you where your specific case is, while the processing times tool tells you how long cases like yours typically take. Use both together: the times tool for the estimate, case status for the actual progress.
If your case has moved recently, that is a good sign it is active. If it has been quiet and you are past the posted time, that is when a service request makes sense.
Related terms
Processing Time
The typical time USCIS takes to decide a given form, posted per form, category, and office.
80 Percent Completion Time
The time within which USCIS finishes 80 percent of cases for a form. The number the official tool actually shows.
Receipt Notice (I-797)
The Form I-797 USCIS mails after you file, with your receipt number and filing date.