Open ProvincesDeath of a registered person ordinarily living on reserve: understand estate administration
Confirm federal jurisdiction, report the death, locate the will and property, then support appointment and inventory work.
Ordinary residence at death can completely change jurisdiction. Do not distribute or sell property before confirming who may administer the estate.
Confirm jurisdiction
Verify registration and ordinary residence at death. A registered person living off reserve is generally handled under provincial law.
Notify and document
Contact ISC, obtain proof of death and gather the will, family details, debts, accounts and property on and off reserve.
Identify the administrator
The Minister may approve the executor or appoint an administrator. Relatives should not act as authorized before appointment.
Inventory and account
Protect property, notify creditors, document every transaction and follow directions on debts, beneficiaries, reserve land and accounting.
Administering an Indian Act estate — ISC
Sources and limits
Official sources are linked in the guide. Checked August 29, 2026; confirm current rules, forms and deadlines with the responsible authority.
General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting. Last reviewed : 2026-08-29.