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Nova Scotia

Indigenous

If you are Indigenous learn about benefits designed specifically for Indigenous people below.

Important

If you are Indigenous there are many things that affect the benefits you can get and the dollar amounts you can get from them. These include the agreements your band or governing body has with provincial, territorial, and federal governments. Before applying to any benefits, you should speak with your governing body, if applicable.

  • If you are First Nations: speak with your administration, band, or governing body
  • If you are Inuit: speak with your governing body or hamlet administration office
  • If you are Métis: speak with your governing body, if applicable.

AFOA Canada and Prosper Canada are currently seeking funding to develop an online tool that serves the needs of Indigenous people living in Canada.

Common indigenous benefits

Nova Scotia

If you live in a rural area (outside of the city), you are living on a low income, and you need to make emergency repairs to your home that you own, this program can help you.

Up to $7,000.

Easy application

Need you to file taxes and apply separately

Nova Scotia

Find out how to request an increase to the base fuel tax exemption under the Nova Scotia Indian Fuel Tax Exemption Program or fuel tax back when the base amount is exceeded.

Easy application

Tax filing not required

Nova Scotia

Buy your fuel exempt from provincial fuel tax at registered service stations on reserves. You just need to register for the Nova Scotia Indian Fuel Tax Exemption Program. There is no cost to register.

Easy application

Tax filing not required

Nova Scotia

If you paid Nova Scotia Sales Tax (NSST) by mistake when you bought a vehicle like a car, truck or trailer, you can apply for a refund.

Easy application

Tax filing not required

Nova Scotia

If you have status under the Indian Act and paid tax more than $100 on fuel bought on a reserve you can apply for a fuel tax refund at no cost to you. You can also apply once every 12 months if the amount of tax is under $200.

Tax paid on fuel.

Easy application

Tax filing not required

Federal

The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program provides eligible First Nations and Inuit clients with coverage for a range of health benefits that are not covered through other social programs, private insurance plans, or provincial or territorial health insurance.

Easy application

Tax filing not required