Final Call for Heirs to Access $38 Million in Cobell Settlement Funds
The Kroll Settlement Administration has announced an urgent reminder for heirs of Individual Indian Money (IIM) account holders regarding the Cobell Indian Trust Settlement. With a total of
$38 million still available, it’s crucial for eligible heirs to submit their claims before the
June 30, 2025 deadline. If you are connected to an account holder who passed away without having received any funds from the settlement, now is the time to act.
Understanding the Cobell Settlement
The Cobell settlement, which originally addressed longstanding issues with the management of trust funds and resources belonging to Native Americans, was a monumental landmark in rectifying financial injustices. The settlement comprised
$3.4 billion in total, which was designated to compensate thousands of Native American citizens for the mismanagement of trust assets. Now, a significant portion of that fund remains unclaimed by heirs.
How to Check Eligibility
A searchable online database containing over
17,000 IIM account holders is available at
cobellsettlement.com. Interested parties can find out if they are eligible to file a claim by searching for their relatives through their name or tribal affiliation. This user-friendly feature simplifies the process immensely for family members who might otherwise find themselves lost in administrative complexities.
Once you locate the account holder's information, the site guides you through the claiming process, which requires specific documentation to substantiate your claim. The following documents are necessary to establish eligibility and proceed with claims:
- - A state or tribal probate order that identifies the estate heirs,
- - A last will and testament validated by a probate order,
- - A small estate document recognized by the state for simplified estate proceedings,
- - Documentation related to the appointment of an estate executor, administrator, or personal representative, or
- - A federal probate order outlining the distribution of trust funds or lands.
If you lack a probate order but an executor has been appointed for the estate, the funds may still be transferred to that representative, who will then manage the distribution according to the wishes of the deceased.
Consequences of Inaction
It is crucial to comprehend that any funds that remain unclaimed after the June 30 deadline will not simply revert to the federal treasury. Instead, they will be allocated to the
Cobell Scholarship Fund, which is aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for Native American students. This underscores the importance of timely action for eligible heirs, as missing this deadline not only affects individuals but also impacts community support systems.
How to Proceed
For assistance or inquiries, individuals may visit the Cobell settlement website or contact their helpline directly at
800-961-6109. Necessary documentation can be mailed to:
Indian Trust Settlement
c/o Kroll Settlement Administration
P.O. Box 5324
New York, NY 10150-5324
Conclusion
As the deadline approaches, it’s essential for heirs to act without delay. The potential for significant monetary awards from the Cobell Indian Trust Settlement cannot be overstated, representing not just personal financial benefits but also contributing to the welfare and education within indigenous communities. Don’t miss your chance to secure what's rightfully owed to your family.