I-9 manual from USCIS (m-274). USCIS will not come after the employer if you can show your renewal has be pending for 90 days then work up to 240 days pending EAD adjudication. Too many types of work authorization here, some good for 180 days, some 240 days,... some never expires even the card expires,... too complicated for the employer to know. USCIS simplify the problem here to protect the employer, it doesn't mean you will be safe to work after the expiration. In your case, EAD in c9 eligibility, even 1 day of work after expiration is a violation, however, your category (citizen's spouse) is immuned. Too much information for your employer, they only need to know they can allow you to do so.