着急: I-485 pending不能办社安卡?

I was totally surprised when I went to a local Social Security service center recently to apply for a SS card and I was told that they cannot issue me because I am I-485 pending. According to him, I have to wait till my Green Card is issued.

I have EAD(working permission) uncer H-4 status. The local officer told me that this is a federal law came into effect after 9/11.

My lawyer told me that I can apply for EAD and SS card once I-140 is apaproved. I am totally confused.

Anyone know info. about this? Many thanks!!!