What do you get when you reach 100 in the UK? A guide to royal greetings and centenarian benefits

According to the Office for National Statistics, the number of centenarians in the UK more than doubled between 2003 and 2023, with an estimated 16,140 people reaching this milestone in 2023. For those who reach this remarkable age, a special tradition exists. So, what do you get when you reach 100 in the UK?

Quick Summary

A UK centenarian primarily receives a personalised congratulatory card from the reigning monarch, a tradition dating back to 1917. This message is arranged by the Anniversaries Office at Buckingham Palace and is automatically processed for State Pension recipients, though family members can also apply. While there's no monetary prize specifically for turning 100, other relevant state benefits become accessible to senior citizens.

Key Points

• Royal Greeting: The primary recognition is a personalised congratulatory card from the reigning monarch, King Charles III, sent on a centenarian's 100th birthday.

• Application Required: The message is not always automatic; family or friends must apply to the Anniversaries Office at Buckingham Palace, especially if the celebrant does not receive a State Pension.

• No Monetary Bonus: There is no special financial prize or 'Centenarian Bounty' for turning 100 in the UK, unlike some other countries.

• Other Benefits: Centenarians are eligible for numerous state benefits for seniors, such as Attendance Allowance, Pension Credit, and Winter Fuel Payment, based on their needs and income.

• Subsequent Messages: The King sends additional cards on the 105th birthday and every year thereafter, as well as for significant wedding anniversaries.

A Royal Congratulatory Message

The most significant recognition a UK resident receives upon turning 100 is a personalised message from the reigning monarch, currently King Charles III. This tradition, initiated by King George V in 1917, involves a congratulatory card, often featuring the monarch's photo and a personal inscription, which serves as a cherished memento for the recipient and their family.

The Application Process for a Royal Greeting

The process for receiving a royal card varies. For UK residents receiving a State Pension or other benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the DWP's Centenarian Team typically works with the Anniversaries Office to arrange the message automatically. However, it is advisable for families to confirm details beforehand. For those not receiving a state pension or living overseas, an application must be submitted to the Anniversaries Office via the official royal website or by post, no sooner than five weeks before the birthday. Proof of age and, for overseas residents, proof of British nationality, are required. Belated messages can be requested up to six months post-birthday.

No Specific Financial 'Bonus'

There is no dedicated financial reward or government bonus in the UK solely for reaching 100 years of age. The UK's recognition is the ceremonial card from the monarch. However, centenarians are often eligible for a range of existing benefits for those over state pension age.

Benefits for Older Adults in the UK

This milestone age highlights the importance of support for independent living. Several benefits are available to older adults, not exclusively centenarians, that may be relevant:

• Attendance Allowance: For those over State Pension age requiring personal care or supervision due to disability (not means-tested).
• Pension Credit: An income-related benefit to supplement weekly income. Eligibility may also grant a free TV licence for those over 75.
• Winter Fuel Payment: An annual payment to assist with heating costs, usually automatic for eligible individuals.
• Council Tax Reduction: Available from local councils for those on low incomes or with disabilities.

The Rising Number of Centenarians

The increasing number of centenarians in the UK reflects improvements in healthcare and living standards. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) data shows a significant rise in centenarians and a narrowing gap in the ratio of women to men reaching this age, suggesting men are living longer due to lifestyle and medical advancements.

Characteristic	UK Centenarians in 2003	UK Centenarians in 2023
Total Number	~7,980	~16,140
Ratio (Women to Men)	8.6:1	4.5:1
Percentage of UK Population	~0.01%	~0.02%

More Celebrations from the Monarch

The monarch also sends greetings for other significant milestones:

Birthday greetings are sent for:

1. 105th birthday
2. Every year thereafter

Anniversary greetings are sent for:

1. Diamond wedding (60th)
2. 65th wedding anniversary
3. Platinum wedding (70th)
4. Every year thereafter

As with birthday messages, applications are necessary for wedding anniversaries due to privacy regulations. More information is available on the official Royal Family website.

Conclusion

Reaching 100 in the UK is a remarkable feat, celebrated with a treasured congratulatory message from the monarch. While there is no specific financial reward, centenarians can access various existing benefits for older adults. The increasing number of centenarians underscores longer, healthier lives, and the royal message serves as a special acknowledgment of this extraordinary milestone.

For more information on the process, including application forms, you can visit the official Royal website: https://www.royal.uk/anniversary-messages

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the monarch's birthday card sent automatically when someone reaches 100?

For UK residents receiving a State Pension or other DWP benefits, the process is usually automatic, with details passed from the DWP to the Anniversaries Office. However, for those not on these benefits, an application must be made by a family member or friend.

How do I apply for a 100th birthday message from the King?

You can apply online via the official royal website or by post to the Anniversaries Office at Buckingham Palace. The application can be submitted up to five weeks before the birthday and requires proof of age, like a birth certificate.

Do you need to be a British national to receive a birthday message?

Yes, messages are typically sent to citizens of the UK, its Realms, or UK Overseas Territories. Those living overseas must provide evidence of British nationality with their application.

Can you receive a belated royal birthday message?

Yes, it is possible to apply for a belated message up to six months after the celebratory date. The process requires a standard application.

What is the tradition behind sending birthday messages to centenarians?

The tradition began in 1917 with King George V, who sent congratulatory telegrams to centenarians. The practice has continued and evolved, with the monarch now sending personalised cards.

Are cards also sent for other milestones besides the 100th birthday?

Yes, the monarch also sends cards for the 105th birthday and every year following. Congratulatory messages are also sent for diamond (60th), 65th, and platinum (70th) wedding anniversaries and every year thereafter.

What happens if a person passes away before their birthday card arrives?

While the card is prepared in advance, families have sometimes been sent cards despite a recent death. Some reports suggest that Buckingham Palace has, in the past, offered condolences upon learning of the recipient's passing.