Learn who qualifies for the Indian Boarding Homes Class Action Settlement, what documents are needed, and how to apply for compensation.
Overview of the Indian Boarding Homes Settlement
The Indian Boarding Homes Class Action Settlement provides compensation to Indigenous individuals who were placed in private family homes under Canada’s Indian Boarding Homes Program. This program, active from the 1950s onward, often led to cultural disconnection, abuse, and trauma. Determining if you qualify for the Indian Boarding Homes Class Action settlement is the first step toward justice, recognition, and healing.
Who Can Apply?
1) Primary Class Members
You may be eligible if you:
- Are First Nations, Métis or Inuit,
- Were placed in a private home for the purpose of attending school between September 1, 1951, and June 30, 1992, and
- Were placed in a home that was not your own family’s and not a recognized residential school.
2) Individuals Placed After 1992
If you were placed after June 30, 1992, you may still qualify if Canada was responsible for your placement. Supporting documents are required to prove this involvement.
3) Estate Claims
If an eligible person passed away on or after July 24, 2016, their estate may still file a claim. This allows families to seek compensation on behalf of loved ones who are no longer here to speak for themselves.
What Documentation Do You Need?
To support your claim, assemble any documents that you believe may assist you in completing the claim form:
- Your photo ID (if you have one)
- Documents related to applications to be a part of the Boarding Homes Program
- Documents related to your time in the boarding home, such as photos, letters, diaries, etc.
- Attendance records or report cards for the school you attended while in placement
How to Apply for the Settlement
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit the Indian Boarding Homes Class Action Website
- Download or access the Claim Form online
- Use the Claim Form Guide
- Submit your supporting documents
- Review your submission and confirm all details
- Submit your claim before the deadline
Deadline for Filing a Claim
The deadline to file your claim is February 22nd, 2027. Don’t wait until the last minute – start your application as soon as possible.