I'm planning to ask United for a status match but here are some questions I couldn't find the answer to by searching the forum:

* When is the best time to ask for a status match for United? (I called them mid december and was told that they don't do status matches from oct - dec so I was instructed to call back in january.

* How long does it usually take for them to upgrade my account and ship the new card? I'm asking because I have an upcoming trip on the 13th of february.

* Probably a stupid question: I'm not yet a member of United MP and I assume I need to create an account BEFORE asking for the match, correct?

Thanks a lot guys!