I decided to get the 1 year multiple entry B visa and will probably use Sunbelt.If I arrive in Thailand in March for a month and get the forms,etc.,then go back to the US,how much time do I have to have to go to the Thai consul to get the visa.Can I stay in the US for several months before coming back to Thailand.Does the moment I get the visa from the consul determine the 90 days period?Would it be best to wait to get the visa just before I am ready to come back to Thailand?

Yes, it's definitively best to wait until the last minute and apply for the visa just before you leave home. The multiple visa is valid for unlimited entries 365 days (or maybe 364 days) from the date of issue.

Each entry is actually 90 days, but all entries *must* be utlilized before the 364/365 date expires.

So you could technically apply for the visa, wait 350 days in the US, enter Thailand and still get your (last) 90 days entry of your one year multiple entry visa.

Hope this helps.

Thanks!Wasn't sure about how long I would need to get so many things settled here so will get the visa when I am ready to leave.