The Policy exists (a) to give financial help with funeral expenses for deceased Siksika Nation Members and (b)to provide clear rules for staff who administer that help.

• Executor first. If the deceased Member named an executor in their will, that executor may apply.
• Next-of-kin if no executor or will. See Q 3 for how next-of-kin is chosen.

When there is no executor, the closest living relative may apply in this order: spouse/common-law partner → child → grandchild → great-grandchild → parent → sibling → niece/nephew → grandparent → aunt/uncle → first cousin.
Only one person can act; eligible relatives must agree who that will be (the eldest child is not automatic).

Yes. The application must be filed within three (3) months of the Member’s death.

Yes. The Senior Manager may grant extra funds for transporting remains, an oversized casket or special liner, or other exceptional needs.

The term covers the casket, funeral or cremation services, wake services and memorial services — travel or accommodation for attendees is not included.

Yes. Siksika Nation is not liable for any expenses over the approved assistance limit. 

The Nation may demand repayment, withhold future payments, or report suspected crimes if assistance is spent on anything other than funeral expenses.

• Funeral-home costs are paid directly to the chosen funeral home.
• Wake-service funds may be paid to the applicant or, if requested, to a caterer.

You will need: the approved application form, proof of death, proof of executor status (if applicable), a letter of consent from other next-of-kin (if applicable), and any other information the Senior Manager or Estates Officer requires. 

Yes. The cost can be reimbursed or paid directly to the vendor, so long as the combined payments stay within the approved assistance limit.

Only Siksika Members are entitled to on-reserve burial; non-members need Chief & Council approval. Burials are limited to eight recognized Nation cemeteries (e.g., Cannon Stockton, Crowfoot, Little Chicago, etc.).

You may appeal to the Membership Tribunal, which will set a hearing within seven days and render a final, binding decision following fair-hearing principles.