My Platinum status was due to expire tomorrow. Because I believe that as a leisure traveler--it seems that Platinum status is really geared to the business traveler. A drop to Gold status seemed fine with me-- until I realized that the matching Silver status with United came into action. No I don't expect upgrades with that lowly status--however when doing a search for flight availability under mrsderby44's account it didn't include opportunities that were available under my account. A call to United customer service confirmed that-- sir you have status with us and the Mrs doesn't therefore you have more flights available to you. That was a defining moment for me and I decided to use 40,000 points for another year as Platinum--and we do plan on flying United especially using points in the next year. Will I be able to buy Platinum status again next February? Thanks to all for your help.