BIA Burial Assistance Program

BIA Burial Assistance Program

Assistance is up to $3,000. Resources available on the date of death will be deducted from $3,000.   In the event the funeral cost is less than $3,000, the funeral home shall receive the actual cost.  Payments will be made directly to funeral homes. The person (s) who signs the burial contract with the funeral home is considered the responsible party and must sign the application with the Social Services Office. Reimbursements will not be allowed.

Application | Burial Assistance | pdf

Eligibility Requirements

1. Deceased must be enrolled in a Federally Recognized Indian Tribe.
2. Deceased must have lived within Muscogee (Creek) Nation boundaries.
3. Death must have occurred within one hundred eighty (180) days from the time the responsible party makes the application.
4. Income for deceased and spouse or parent(s) of minor must meet income guidelines.
5. Resources for deceased and spouse or parent(s) of minor available on the date of passing must not exceed $3,000.00

Required Documentation

The information on this page is not all-inclusive and assistance is not guaranteed. Cases are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and subject to review/approval.

1. Signed application (Must be signed by the same person who signed burial contract)
2. Tribal citizenship verification for deceased
3. Social Security Card for deceased
4. Signed burial contract
5. Residence verification for the deceased dated within the past thirty (30) days (utility bill, written verification from current landlord, postmarked mail, etc.)
6. Income verification (paystubs, award letters, pension, veterans benefits statements, etc.) for deceased and spouse or parent(s) of a minor
7. Resource verification (bank statements, savings account statements, life insurance policy, etc.) for deceased and spouse or parent(s) of a minor
8. Additional documents may be requested on a case-by-case basis.