Looks like, for NW, you need to be much closer to the end of the qualification year than July. For my Oct 2006 status match request, my welcome email included this paragraph:

Due to the timing of your 2006 complimentary Gold Elite upgrade, please be advised that your Gold Elite membership will be continued through the
2007 program year - March 1, 2007 through February 29, 2008. You may expect your credentials for this program to be delivered prior to March
1, 2007.