Originally Posted by
brc01
Alternatively, you could double dip by applying for a new Gold first, then accept the Gold upgrade offer for another 40K. Not sure exactly how long the upgrade offer sticks around once you have the card.
I previously did this with the AMEX Hilton card upgrade to AMEX Hilton Surpass card. I even specifically called and was told I definitely could apply for a new Surpass card, then accept the upgrade offer. I followed this advice and received both bonuses as promised.