This is the first time we are trying to get miles and our first card we want to get. I have a couple questions. We got an email from a friend with the 50k offer for the rapid rewards plus card. We would also like to get the rapid rewards premier with a 50K offer and try to get the companion pass. We just got the email this week:

1) how long does the link usually work?
2) For the companion pass we really need to wait for our bonus points to be posted to our account until January, correct?
3) How does the 3 month time period work? Is it 3 months from the day you are approved? Do you have through the statement date of the 3rd month?

I'm thinking we want to wait until October to apply for the cards, but was hoping to get some advice. I'm sure these questions have been asked a million times, so I apologize for that. Thanks in advance!