Eligibility for a Birthday Message
To receive a birthday message from the King, individuals must be citizens of His Majesty's Realms or UK Overseas Territories. This tradition started with King George V in 1917 to honor those reaching significant milestones. The message is a personalized card.
How to Receive a Message
The method for receiving a message depends on residency and state benefits:
- Automatic for UK Residents: Those in the UK receiving a state pension or other Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefit usually receive a card automatically. The DWP informs the Anniversaries Office at Buckingham Palace.
- Manual Application: Eligible citizens not receiving a UK state pension or living overseas need to apply. An application can be made online via the Royal Family's website or by post. Citizens in Commonwealth realms like Canada, Australia, or New Zealand must apply through their country's Governor-General.
Application Details
For manual applications, proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport copy, is required. Applications can be submitted up to five weeks before the birthday online, or three weeks before by post. The card is sent to the celebrant's address and can be requested for delivery up to five days early. Confirmation is sent once processed. {Link: northerncards.com https://northerncards.com/blogs/nc/annie-hanrahan-celebrates-her-100th-birthday-with-a-message-from-king-charles}
The Royal Message
The message is a personalized card conveying good wishes. It arrives by Royal Mail. {Link: northerncards.com https://northerncards.com/blogs/nc/annie-hanrahan-celebrates-her-100th-birthday-with-a-message-from-king-charles}
Centenarian Celebrations Comparison
| Feature | UK Royal Congratulatory Card | Other Country Celebrations (e.g., US) |
|---|---|---|
| Initiator | The Sovereign (King Charles III) | The President, Governor, etc. |
| Recipient | Citizens of His Majesty's Realms or UK Overseas Territories | Citizens or long-term residents |
| Type of message | Personalised card from the King and Queen | Letter or proclamation from the head of state |
| Sent at | 100th, 105th, and every year thereafter | Often at 100th, but can vary by state or country |
| Application | Automatic for UK state pensioners; manual for others | Varies; often requires an application |
| Supporting Proof | Birth certificate/passport (unless DWP can verify) | Proof of age and residency |
Further Information
The messages are significant keepsakes, recognizing a long life. For more information or to apply, visit the official Royal Family website or contact the Anniversaries Office. UK residents with DWP queries should note the DWP's role is primarily data provision to the Anniversaries Office.
Conclusion
Eligible citizens can receive a congratulatory card from the King on their 100th birthday. UK residents receiving a state pension typically receive it automatically, while others must apply with proof of age. {Link: northerncards.com https://northerncards.com/blogs/nc/annie-hanrahan-celebrates-her-100th-birthday-with-a-message-from-king-charles}
