Trying to purchase renewal certificate for pass that renews in June to get 13 month promotion

[dansyr2514]

Just wanted to confirm because I've heard a few different things. I am currently an AP holder. My renewal date is the end of Feb. We won't be going back until Dec 2017. So, I think I want to just purchase a new pass instead of renewing. If I purchase the new pass by 1/3/17, but don't use it until Dec 2017, are they still honoring the 13 mos? I'm just trying to confirm because I've heard a few different things regarding when the pass needs to be activated by.
Thanks in advance!