CIS now has a form you can submit with your I800a or I600a applications.  They will text &/or email you a notification of the status of your application. You will still continue to receive the usual written approval notices, but this helps you track receipt and progress.  Best of all – there’s no fee!  Fill out a completed G-1145 and clip to the first page of your application.  For more information go to the CIS website under their Forms tab and open form G-1145.

USCIS – G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance