It’s July 1st, which in the world of frequent fliers means it’s now the best time to request a status match or status challenge, because in most instances the status will be given for the rest of 2014 and all of 2015, meaning you can get the status for over 18 months!

In addition, Delta just decreased the amount of miles needed to fly during their Status Challenge (possibly, because they realize how poor their SkyMiles program is to begin and how they have devalued their miles)

With that being said, here’ a look at the new requirements for Delta’s Status Challenge:

 If you wish to challenge and keep the status here’s what you’ll have to fly:

• To retain Silver status: 6,250 miles or 8 segments
• To retain Gold status: 12,500 miles or 15 segments
• To retain Platinum status: 18,750 miles or 25 segments

Previously the requirements were Platinum: 26,000 MQMs or 35 MQSs, Gold: 16,000 MQMs or 20 MQSs, Silver: 8,000 MQMs or 10 MQSs.

Customers who enroll in the Challenge between July 1, 2014 and June 30, 2015 and meet the flight requirement within a 90-day period from enrollment will retain their matched Medallion status through January 31, 2016, unless a higher Medallion level is earned by reaching published Medallion qualification thresholds.

Criteria for participation:

• Member has not received a status match or complimentary Medallion status in the past
• Is currently a non-Medallion member
• Must present valid and current elite credential or statement showing elite status from another airline

Delta will offer status challenges to American Airlines and United Airlines elite members only. You can request a status challenge here.