Applicants can apply for assistance at the nearest BIA operated or tribal social service provider. To obtain information on how to find a provider in your area, please contact the nearest BIA regional office.

How much Native American do you have to be to get benefits?

Most tribes require a specific percentage of Native “blood,” called blood quantum, in addition to being able to document which tribal member you descend from. Some tribes require as much as 25% Native heritage, and most require at least 1/16th Native heritage, which is one great-great grandparent.

How do I know if I qualify for Native American benefits?

If the end goal for doing such research is to help you determine if you are eligible for membership in a tribe, you must be able to: 1) establish that you have a lineal ancestor – biological parent, grandparent, great-grandparent and/or more distant ancestor – who is an American Indian or Alaska Native person from a

How do I get Native American Benefits?

Although Native Americans can, of course, also get general welfare-related benefits, food stamps, and healthcare coverage, there are options specific to their standing as a member of one of the 570+ recognized NA tribes. To receive anything, the individual needs to be enrolled as a tribal member.

Can I receive money for being Native American?

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) does not disburse cash to individuals, and contrary to popular belief, the U.S. government does not mail out basic assistance checks to people simply because they are Native American.