
OHSWEKEN, ON (Feb. 4, 2025) – We would like to inform Six Nations of the Grand River membership about trust moneys that may be held in trust for you or your family members by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). Trust moneys are all moneys collected, received or held in trust by ISC for the use and benefit of First Nations members.
ISC manages individual moneys on behalf of registered minors under the Indian Act, dependent adults (based on a provincial designation as such), and estates of certain deceased individuals. ISC is responsible for estate services for First Nations in all provinces. Estate administration is a private family matter and ISC encourages family members or their nominees to manage the estates of those who have died. ISC serves as administrator if no one is willing or able to settle the estate. When ISC serves as administrator trust accounts are opened;
For registered minors: An individual trust account holds certain moneys for a minor until they reach the age of majority in the province, territory, or place of residence.
For dependent adults (based on a provincial designation as such): If a member of a First Nation, who ordinarily lives on reserve, is found incapable of handling their own financial affairs, ISC may establish an account for them and manage their day-to-day income and expenses.
For estates: Where a First Nation member, who ordinarily lives on reserve, passes away, the Minister has exclusive jurisdiction over the estate. ISC may appoint an outside administrator (provincial officer, family member, etc.) or, as a last resort, appoint an ISC employee to administer the estate.
All trust moneys held by ISC accrue interest until they are paid out, with some exceptions.
For more information on trust moneys and the related processes, visit https://sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1428673130728/1581870217607.

Media Contact Information: COMMUNITY NOTICE: INDIGENOUS SERVICES CANADA TRUST MONEYS
Caitlin Court, Communications Coordinator, (519) 751-6148
1695 Chiefswood Road, P.O. Box 5000, Ohsweken Ontario N0A 1M0