Basic ILR Questions

I'm on a spouse visa, 5-year route, and it expires this autumn (I think November 2019).  I did tons of research for the spouse visa process at the time, and drove myself crazy with it, but I'm finding it harder now with a full time job and a toddler.  I would appreciate it so much if anybody could just clarify these I'm sure very basic questions about ILR:

1. Can I take the Life in the UK test anytime from now, since my visa expires in less than a year?

2. When I go on the gov.uk website about settlement, it says I am eligible to apply and offers a link to "Apply Now."  When should I complete this online section in relation to the date my visa expires?  Do I send off my supporting documents and attend a biometrics appointment after this online part is complete?

3. When are priority options presented?  Do I need to begin the online application process before I am given these options?  Or is there an entirely different process if you want priority?

Thanks very much for your help.  I just want to make sure I don't miss the deadline to apply.

I'm on a spouse visa, 5-year route, and it expires this autumn (I think November 2019).  I did tons of research for the spouse visa process at the time, and drove myself crazy with it, but I'm finding it harder now with a full time job and a toddler.  I would appreciate it so much if anybody could just clarify these I'm sure very basic questions about ILR:

1. Can I take the Life in the UK test anytime from now, since my visa expires in less than a year?

2. When I go on the gov.uk website about settlement, it says I am eligible to apply and offers a link to "Apply Now."  When should I complete this online section in relation to the date my visa expires?  Do I send off my supporting documents and attend a biometrics appointment after this online part is complete?

3. When are priority options presented?  Do I need to begin the online application process before I am given these options?  Or is there an entirely different process if you want priority?

Thanks very much for your help.  I just want to make sure I don't miss the deadline to apply.

1.  Yes, you can take the Life in the UK test at any time.  You could've taken it right after you arrived on your spouse visa if you'd wanted to.  Once you do take it and pass, do not lose the certificate.  You'll need it for your ILR application as well as your citizenship application (if you choose to become a citizen).  It is encouraged that you take the test sooner, rather than later.  It can take a while to book a test, and you need the pass certificate before you can apply for ILR.  (Plus, in the unlikely event that you do not pass the test, you'll want time to book a re-test.)

2.  You can apply for ILR up to 28 days before you've been in the UK for five years on a settlement visa.  What date did you arrive on your spouse visa?  Add five years to that, and subtract 28 days... that's the earliest you can apply.  The expiry date of your current visa is the latest you can apply.

3.  The system for applying has changed very recently, so someone else will have to help you with the priority/premium options.

Congrats on 5 years!