Originally Posted by
Moebius01
I'd say that depends on your current flight outlook for next year. If you'll be flying a good bit, it's definitely worth it. The jump between Silver and Gold in the form of benefits is pretty substantial. Now, if you're not looking to do that much, that might be a good reason to stay silver and take the rollover.
And
Originally Posted by
runfit
Maybe hold and then do a couple of MRs early next year (maybe even get an AMEX card or two) and hit Gold - that way you will have it until Feb. 2013. I agree, the differences are quite substantial.
I agree with these opinions. Gold is worth having but only if you use it is it of any worth to you. If you are short 1400 miles you will roll over about 23,600. So if you think you will earn another 26,400 early next year you will hit Gold in the first part of the year and it will last 9 or 10 months longer if you get it in the first quarter of the year.
So the advice is good - stay Silver now, then do the MRs in January and perhaps get the Amex Reserve card for some bonus MQMs early in the year, (iirx they give you 10,000 MQMs on your first purchase, presuming you don't have one already).
Of course if you are sure you would earn Gold again next year (including perhaps some Amex Reserve MQMs), then get it now because you will want to earn the 100% bonus miles on flights you take next year and other perks you get.