I've got an ORD-HKG roundtrip coming up over Thanksgiving. I'll definitely clear 1P on the return leg but am trying to optimize a little:

• How long does it take before the status change takes effect?
  
• Does the status change still apply to your qualifying or does it only kick-in once you land?
  
• I'm having some... 'issues' with Chase owing me 2500 EQM. If they transfer to MP account before my trip, I'll clear 1P on the outbound leg (just barely, 50,002 eqm!) If they don't post, would United comp me to 1P if I nicely explain the situation? With the double EQM offer, and some flights in December, I'll actually be 1K-lite this year. (Woo-hoo.) I'd just really like the extra 2000 odd miles the 150% bonus would get me over my lowly 2P-ness.