Last-minute strategies for earning Delta Medallion elite status

With just two months left in 2026, time is running out to qualify (or requalify) for Delta Medallion elite status.If you have not done so already, check your elite qualification metrics, tally up your travel for the rest of the year and see where that puts you in terms of elite status for next year. If you're short of your goal, you still have time to close the gap. There are plenty of ways to earn Delta status — and they don't all involve flying.Here are some ideas to help you earn what you need by the end of the year and reap the benefits of Medallion status in 2027.Related: Reciprocal earning coming soon from new Delta-Hyatt partnershipHow to earn Delta elite statusERIC ROSEN/THE POINTS GUYRemember that as of Jan. 1, 2024, Delta consolidated all Medallion status earning activities into Medallion Qualification Dollars, axing Medallion Qualification Miles and Medallion Qualification Segments.Now, flyers earn MQDs not just on eligible travel purchases with Delta and its partners, but also on other activities, such as spending on Delta-issued credit cards and vacation packages. You'll need to reach the following MQD thresholds for each Medallion status tier:DELTAOf course, the most ...