When to buy my AP

[snowmouse]

I am planning two upcoming trips (October and February), so I understand that AP's would be a good deal for us. I also have read that I can make reservations with an AP code before I have actually purchased it, correct?

This being the case, I'm trying to figure out the timing of purchase. Is it also true that my one year doesn't begin until the first time I use the pass at a park? If I don't purchase an AP ahead of time, how would I know of all the specific discounts available? I understand there is a newsletter, but how do I get one (I assume I go on a mailing list when I have paid for the AP, true??)

[GoldenOldie]

Originally posted by snowmouse
...I also have read that I can make reservations with an AP code before I have actually purchased it, correct?
Yes, this is true.

Is it also true that my one year doesn't begin until the first time I use the pass at a park?
If you purchase it at WDW your pass will be effective at purchase, not at first use of the pass. If you buy a voucher ahead of time, the pass becomes active the minute you exchange it for the actual pass at WDW.

If I don't purchase an AP ahead of time, how would I know of all the specific discounts available? I understand there is a newsletter, but how do I get one (I assume I go on a mailing list when I have paid for the AP, true??)
You don't get the newsletter until after you have activated the pass. Keep reading the DIS or check
Mousesavers (http://www.mousesavers.com) to keep up on what's currently available for AP resort discounts.