Submitted my materials via mail on July 23. Just learned my check was cashed on Thursday, September 27. Shouldn't be too long, now, assuming no unexpected hurdles.
My sense is people have had equal success through mail and online. The renewal occurs without reapplying - you just pay your fee again. So, if you’re short on funds, 1 year should be fine. Good luck!
One would think that, even if nothing else was instituted, if they just stop the background check and fingerprint analysis, that would greatly expedite their review process.