I called up the U.S. Ambassador hotline after reading a single DP on FT that the previous renewal rate of 24K was being honored for those who call in.
The rep. let me renew at 24K without a fight, but stressed that next year's renewal would be at the new 40K rate (see attachment). She also mentioned that they'll honor the previous rate for all who call in by March 1 (although I haven't seen this officially published anywhere...).
Number is: 1-888-211-7996
