FORT BERTHOLD, ND – The Department of the Interior announced that $28 million has been distributed to tribal beneficiaries following the completion of a set of probate cases through the Office of Hearings and Appeals after a probate surge event held by the Indian Affairs Probate Strike Team at Fort Berthold Agency in North Dakota.
“Each completed probate case represents answers delivered, responsibilities upheld, and our commitment to tribal beneficiaries carried forward,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. “Our work continues to ensure every beneficiary receives what is owed to them with transparency, dignity and respect.”
This distribution represents a financial milestone in the probate process and reflects ongoing efforts to ensure families receive distributions in a timely and accurate manner. Coordination among the Office of Hearings and Appeals, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Trust Funds Administration, and the Land Titles and Records Office has improved case processing and administrative efficiency while maintaining established review and accuracy standards.
“Today’s distribution reflects the Department’s dedication to honoring our trust responsibilities and ensuring that every beneficiary receives the assets owed to them,” said Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland. “Through improved systems and stronger coordination, we are delivering meaningful results for families and communities.”
The Bureau of Trust Funds Administration will notify account holders whose distributions are included in this action and provide guidance regarding access to funds.
The Fort Berthold Agency serves the Arikara, Hidatsa and Mandan Tribes, also known as the Three Affiliated Tribes. The Probate Strike Team has also held surge events in Alaska, Arizona and Oklahoma.
