In Memoriam, FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: Durham, NC (RDU/GSO/CLT)
Programs: AA EXP/MM, DL GM, UA Platinum, HH DIA, Hyatt Explorist, IHG Platinum, Marriott Titanium, Hertz PC
Posts: 33,857
To echo what others have said above me, I think the $700 is worth it too. The biggest gulf in United status is not from General Member to Premier Silver (provided you have a UA CC) it's from Premier Silver to Premier Gold. $700 to ensure E+ at booking, increase upgrade chances (in my experience it about doubles your odds), earn the extra RDM, be Star Gold, have free SDC access and better protection in IROPs is a worthy investment.