In the past, I made my reservation at 11 months out (Feb for Jan of following year). Then sometime in May MS would call me and deduct points. The trick is allowing for the unknown extra points - I just take the current years res. amt. and add 10%. (The increase has never been this much) If you don't allow enough points you also can also adjust your ressie paying cash for someone, or lower your category - but I think you might be subject to the 75 dollar fee again. Not sure about that. Anyway, I've done it twice this way and had no problems.