If you are interested in UA, they call it the Go For The Gold Program. The fax number is 605-341-6140. They will probably comp you to Premier Executive for your DL gold. Note, they usually will not comp to 1K status. Most airlines, though not all, will not comp to their top elite status.

CO, however and possibly others, will comp to Platinum which is the top status. In most cases, you can call the program service center, and get a fax number to speed up the process. As pointed out, local sales reps can also do this.

Hotel programs may also be willing to comp. It never hurts to ask.

AA officially has a "challenge" where you fly so many miles, and get the status. Some on this board have just gotten a straight no challenge comp, but I tried it and all they offered me was the challenge on several phone calls.