Do you get a letter when you turn 100? Here’s how to receive a presidential greeting

While reaching the age of 100 is a rare and remarkable achievement, automatic recognition from the government is not guaranteed. If you're wondering, do you get a letter when you turn 100, the simple fact is that a request must be made to receive this special presidential greeting.

Quick Summary

Receiving an official congratulatory letter for a 100th birthday is a celebrated tradition, but it is not automatically sent; a family member or friend must submit a request to the White House Greetings Office in advance. This personalized message can be a treasured memento for any centenarian and their family.

Key Points

• Request is Required: Unlike common misconceptions, a centenarian does not automatically receive a birthday letter from the President; it must be requested.

• Use the White House Greetings Office: This is the official department that manages and sends out congratulatory messages for landmark birthdays.

• Plan Ahead: For a presidential greeting to arrive on time, the request should be submitted at least six weeks in advance of the birthday.

• Local Recognition is an Option: In addition to a presidential letter, family members can seek greetings from their state governor and local officials.

• Required Information: Be prepared to provide the honoree's full name, address, and date of birth when submitting your request for recognition.

• Official Greetings are Free: There is no cost associated with requesting or receiving an official congratulatory letter from the White House or other government bodies.

The Tradition of Presidential Greetings

For many years, it has been a special tradition for the President of the United States to extend a personal message of congratulations to citizens reaching their 100th birthday. These letters are a symbol of national honor and a heartfelt tribute to a century of life. However, this is not an automatic process. The letter must be requested, typically by a family member or friend of the centenarian, through the official White House Greetings Office. The process ensures that every greeting is a deliberate and meaningful gesture, prepared for the intended recipient.

How to Request a Letter from the President

The process for requesting a 100th birthday greeting is straightforward, though it requires some foresight. The White House has a dedicated office for handling such requests. It is important to submit the request well in advance of the milestone birthday to ensure the letter arrives on time.

• Submit Your Request Online: The most convenient method is to use the official online form on the White House website. The form requires specific details about the honoree and the occasion. You can find the submission portal directly through the official White House website.
• Submit Your Request by Mail: If you prefer, you can also mail a written request to the White House Greetings Office. Include all the necessary information in your letter. The mailing address is: The White House, Attn: Greetings Office, Washington, D.C. 20502-0039.
• Include Key Information: Whether submitting online or by mail, you will need to provide the honoree's full name, home address, and the exact date of their 100th birthday. It's also wise to include your own contact information in case there are any questions.

Beyond the White House: Other Forms of Official Recognition

While a letter from the President is highly sought-after, it is not the only form of official recognition available. Many other government officials and organizations also offer special acknowledgment for centenarians.

1. State Governor: Most state governors have their own programs for recognizing centenarians. A letter or proclamation from the governor can be a wonderful, localized tribute. Check your state's official website for their specific request process.
2. U.S. Congressional Representatives: Contacting your local congressional representative's office is another avenue for recognition. They often issue certificates or resolutions to honor long-serving constituents.
3. Local Government: Don't forget your local officials. The mayor's office or county commissioners may issue a proclamation to celebrate the centenarian's milestone within their community.
4. Veteran's Organizations: For centenarians who served in the armed forces, military organizations and foundations, like the Friends of the National WWII Memorial, offer special recognition programs for centenarians.

Comparing Official Greeting Requirements

To help organize your requests, here is a comparison of what is typically required for different levels of government recognition.

Feature	Presidential Greeting	State Governor's Greeting	Local Government Proclamation
Initiator	Family member, friend	Family member, friend	Family member, friend
Submission	Online or mail to White House	Online form, letter, or phone call	Varies; often letter or online form
Required Info	Honoree name, address, birthday, requester info	Honoree name, address, birthday, requester info	Honoree name, address, birthday, requester info; possibly a short bio
Lead Time	At least 6 weeks in advance	Varies by state, often 45+ days	Varies, check local guidelines
Eligibility	U.S. citizens only	State residents only	Local residents only
Delivery	Mailed from the White House	Mailed from state office	Mailed or presented at a local event

Timing Your Request

Requesting a presidential greeting requires advanced planning. The White House typically sends greetings to arrive approximately 10 to 14 days before the event. This allows time for the honoree to enjoy the special recognition leading up to their big day. For a 100th birthday, it is best to submit your request at least six weeks ahead of time to account for any potential processing delays. For state and local recognitions, check the specific office's requirements, as lead times can vary significantly.

The Importance of the Effort

While the letter is a simple piece of paper, the effort behind it means a great deal. It shows the centenarian that they are valued and that their longevity is a cause for celebration not just by their family, but by their community and country. For many, this recognition becomes a treasured family keepsake, a tangible piece of history that marks a monumental milestone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you get a letter when you turn 100 automatically?

No, a letter for a 100th birthday is not automatically sent by the government. A request must be submitted to the White House Greetings Office in advance by a family member or friend.

What information is needed to request a presidential birthday letter?

You will need the honoree's full name, home address, and the exact date of their 100th birthday. The requestor's name and contact information are also required.

How far in advance should I submit the request?

The White House recommends submitting the request at least six weeks in advance of the centenarian's birthday to ensure timely delivery.

Can I get a birthday letter from my state's governor too?

Yes, most state governors offer congratulatory letters or proclamations for centenarians. The request process and lead time will vary by state, so you should check your state's official website.

Is the presidential letter only for U.S. citizens?

Yes, the White House sends greetings exclusively to United States citizens for special occasions, including a 100th birthday.

Is there a cost to request an official birthday greeting?

No, there is no charge for requesting a congratulatory letter from the White House or other government entities.

What should I do if the letter doesn't arrive on time?

If the letter is delayed, you can try contacting the White House Greetings Office directly with your request details. They will likely be able to provide an update on its status.