Dene Tha’ First Nation members in the High Level area of Alberta are urged to submit their forms as soon as possible to receive a share of the Annuities Compensation Trust per capita distribution without delay. The per capita payments stem from a long-awaited settlement with Canada over past annuity shortfalls, and Dene Tha’ First Nation is urging everyone to get their paperwork in on time.
Members need to complete a Client Information Verification Form and provide valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID. These go to Scotiatrust, the trustee handling the money, and incomplete applications will slow things down. Once a complete form is received, it takes about four weeks to process the payment.
Community liaisons are available in each of the three communities to help members with the forms. In Chateh, contact Angeline Tsonchoke at 1-780-926-1130. In Bushe River, reach Tana Beaulieu at 1-780-285-1167. In Meander River, Rosemary Chambaud is available at 1-780-285-2903.
The compensation flows from a deal Dene Tha’ members approved in a February 25, 2026 ratification vote. That vote greenlit the Treaty 8 Annuities Specific Claim Compensation Agreement between the First Nation and the Government of Canada. After Canada signs, it has 45 days to transfer the funds to the trust, clearing the way for payouts.
Completed forms can be mailed or emailed to Scotiatrust. Email submissions go to [email protected], with the subject line “DTFN Annuities Trust.” Members should also make sure the band office has their current mailing address to avoid any snags.
