Called about my Citi Premier, no retention offer. When I mentioned the benefits of transferring points with my Sapphire, was told that the Premier was better because I could use the points on any airline

. Didn't spend a ton on the card.
They were firm on no retention offer, but did downgrade my card to a Forward - won't take effect for a couple of months, though.
Quick question: I was told that I could use my Premier until the downgrade to the Forward, but wouldn't have to pay the annual fee. Anyone have any experience in being allowed to use the companion pass again, before the downgrade? It's available as an option with Spirit when I log in...