use the credit on another flight next year.

The SWA site says that you get priority check-in 36 hours before a flight. Is that automatic or do you still have to check in through your phone or computer? Being on automatic check in alone would be worth it, although my wife on a companion pass would still have to check in 24 hours prior, but if I can get our carry-ons stowed and box out a seat for her, that's added value. 25% more points per flight would also help us towards a companion pass in 2017.