My AmEx Delta Platinum card renews - or expires - tomorrow 1/29.
I understand the companion certificate will be awarded soon after that. I confirmed that with a very helpful AmEx Delta Card customer service telephone agent - he said Delta will process and award the certificate - usually in a day or a few days after the renewal date.
I asked him what happens if I choose not to renew (the opportunity window exists b/c he said there is a 4 week grace period after the renewal date in which one can decide not to renew). (In fact I am thinking of downgrading from the Platinum to the Gold card which is $100/yr, not $250. The luggage fee waiver will pay for the $100 several times over.)

He said it doesn't matter if I do not renew the Platinum card - the certif will still be awarded and will be valid.
However, perusing this thread today I think I saw reference to the contrary by one of our members - that one needs to renew the Platinum Card and PAY the fee for the certificate to be awarded.
Does anyone have any experience or insight on this ?

Separate topic: my perusal of all this today was for a separate issue. I have 3 certificates expiring Jan 31 - my wife has 3 or 4 expiring - YIKES !!!
(Do not judge, please !)
I was hoping to find some encouragement in this thread that a polite appeal to Delta might allow extension - - but so many of us are in this situation that I suspect very strongly that to ask Delta would be in vain - - - -
Thoughts ?

Thank you !