I earned next level of elite status on IAH-FRA flight. In the past with AAnother AAirline, I began earning the elite bonus immediately on the flight that caused me to bump to the next level of status.
Since I did not see the elite bonus on my IAH-FRA flight, I wrote in requesting the miles. I was informed that elite status is effective on the day following when you earned it.
Disappointing, but that does appear to be the policy.
"Benefits are effective the day after attaining a new Elite status" per website.