Is there a requirement that has to be met before you can PM someone?

I ask because this is what I get when I try to use them

deerslayer, you do not have permission to access this page. This could be due to one of several reasons:

1. Your user account may not have sufficient privileges to access this page. Are you trying to edit someone else's post, access administrative features or some other privileged system?
2. If you are trying to post, the administrator may have disabled your account, or it may be awaiting activation.

i'm having the same problem...

I am as well. Is this a function of the elite membership?

Thanks!