If I already had an F1 EAD, would the H4 EAD be a renewal of EAD or new permission to accept employment?

Having had an F-1 EAD does not mean that you are filing for renewal when you next file for an H-4 EAD. You should say that you are filing for permission to accept initial employment. Due to the limitations of the Lawyers.com Forums, Alan Lee & Arthur Lee, Esqs.’ (the "Firm") participation in responding to questions posted herein does not constitute legal advice, nor legal representation of the person or entity posting a question. No Attorney/Client relationship is or shall be construed to be created hereby. The information provided herein by the Firm is general, and requires that the poster obtain specific legal advice from an attorney. The poster shall not rely upon the information provided herein as legal advice nor as the basis for making any decisions of legal consequence.