My VIN was assigned as soon as I put in a reservation and the 8 step process was opened up for me online. I completed all the steps (including credit approval for lease) except add insurance and make the first payment. I waited for the guide to call me and thats when I brought up the topic about...
1. You need to complete all the purchase steps (listed online in your Rivian account) 3 days before your delivery date. If your delivery date is next Saturday (Apr 6th), you have to finish all the steps by 3PM Wednesday (Apr 3rd).
2. This is the initial payment which includes your first month...
I got my discount after I put in the reservation and completing most of the purchase steps. They applied it retroactively prior to me making the payment.