when should postnominal letters be used?

Answer 1

In addition to the above, it should be mentioned that you do not use your own except on your CV, your business cards and in similar situations where they are relevant. Never use them under your signature on a letter and especially not in personal correspondence.

Answer 2

Some should always be used when addressing envelopes: these would include decorations bestowed by the Queen, such as DSO, OBE, KG, or MP for Members of Parliament. It is not usually the custom to mention people's degrees after their names unless one is writing in an academic context (letters from a university invariably do), or unless the degree is relevant to the context (e.g. a professional seminar or conference, where people are genuinely interested to know the academic distinctions of those participating). I always feel that it looks wrong to put postnominal letters on TV credits (e.g. Jimmy Saville OBE), although I've just quoted a case where it happened. Similarly, although a large number of MPs are lawyers, it would look very bad if they used their postnominal letters when appearing in court, as their careers as MPs are very distinct from their professional careers.

Answer 3

Postnominal letters are used to indicate a degree, position, office or honour (etc). Postnominal letters are to be placed after the person's name. You can use them on business cards, personal cards ("calling cards") to sign letters, emails, all types of correspondence.

Best Regards,
Holly

Answer 4

They should only be used on individuals who hold a position, office or honour. Example: Jack Straw MP or Lisa Parker SRN to name only a few.