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Q and A: Member Benefit Program
?: ffiei u fie exf Member Benefit Fund distribution?
A: For each member enrolled as of October 1, 1997, Tribal Council has distributed
$ 1 ,000 to their Member Benefit or Minor's Trust account. For those wishing to with
draw funds, October 1, 1997 will be the first date checks are mailed. Everyone must
fill out an application. Those not requesting a withdrawal will have their distribution
held in their account.
Q2: When can I receive my distribution if I don 't take it out on October 1, 1997?
A: Checks are processed and mailed on the 10th of each month. In order to receive a
payment by the 1 0th of a given month, withdrawal requests must be received by the
last day of the previous month. For example, if you wish to receive a payment on
November 10, 1997, you would need to have your withdrawal request in by October
31, 1997.
Q3: I'm between the ages of 18-21, is there any way I can withdraw my funds?
A: You are eligible to withdraw your funds between the ages of 18-21 for two reasons:
1) Education purposes. To be used for college, trade school, or other forms of sec
ondary education. You must be able to prove that you are enrolled in a school, and
that you have unmet funding needs. This can be accomplished by getting a copy of
your yearly budget from the schools financial aid office. To be eligible, you must
have your high school diploma or GED, and gone through the tribal Education Depart
ment and still have an unmet need.
2) Down payment on a home. Cannot be used for rent, security deposits, etc. Must
be able to provide proof of purchase. Payment will be made to escrow company as
part of closing costs.
Q4: Can we expect this money every year?
A: That depends on the availability of funds. Tribal Council prepares a budget every
year. In their budgeting process, Council will identify if revenue is available to fund
the Member Benefit program. Council is currently trying to fund and implement a
permanent fund which could assure future years appropriations.
QS: Is this money taxable?
A: The initial $ 1 ,000 in non-taxable, as it is generated from tribal trust revenues. Any
interest earned as a result of leaving funds in your account would be taxable. At the
end of 1997 we will be sending out a 1099 form that will show any interest earned for
the year. You will use the 1099 to report interest income on your taxes.
Q6: Does my beneficiary have to be a tribal member?
A: No. Your beneficiary can be anyone you choose, including non-members, non
relatives and minors.
Q7: Can parents withdrawal funds from their children 's accounts?
A: No. In fact, accounts for members under the age of 18 cannot be accessed by
anyone, for any reason. Between the ages of 18-21, only the member can request the
funds, and only for the two reasons listed in Q3.
Q8: How do I get an application?
A: Contact Rebecca Crocker at 1 -800-422-0232, extension 22 1 4.
" ' ; '"ri University of Oregon Library
" Received on: 09-08-97
S.oke signals
The Grand Ronde Veterans' Color Guard led the Grand Entry on Friday evening of the Pow-wow. The Posting of the Colors includes the United States
Flag, the Grand Ronde Tribal Flag, the Armed Forces P.O.W. Flag, and the Oregon State Flag. Marcellus Norwest (Korea) carries the Eagle Staff.