Points normally expire on a calendar year basis, such that they can be used in the calendar year they're earned or three months into the following year. (rewardexpert.com)
This means that essentially, your first year you are earning 3x points per dollar! (upgradedpoints.com)
Also, the Companion Pass, once earned, is good for the full calendar year it's earned in, plus the entirety of the following year. (rewardexpert.com)