Why haven’t I received the rest of my CEP payment?
We encourage you to contact the CEP Reconsideration toll free line (1-866-565-4526) and let them know you have not received the rest of your payment. You will be referred to a case manager who will research your file and attempt to resolve the complaint.
Is my compensation payment taxable?
The CEP payment is not taxed. However your settlement through the IAP is taxable. However, taxes may be exempted if you are a Status Indian and the process occurs on reserve.
Does my compensation affect my social assistance benefits?
No your compensation should not affect your social assistance benefits.
I would like to get some counseling for my experience.
CounselingServices including potential funding for travel and accommodations are available to survivors through Health Canada: toll free at 1-877-477-0775.
How can I apply for a deceased parent’s Common Experience Payment (CEP)?
If your parent passed away on or after May 30th, 2005 you are eligible to apply- provided you are the appointed executor of estate or your parent signed a will. If your parent did not sign a will you will need to contact Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.
How can I apply for a deceased parent’s Independent Assessment Process (IAP)?
You may apply on behalf of a deceased parent who:
- resided at an Indian Residential School prior to December 31, 1997
- was alive on May 30, 2005 and
- did not opt out of the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement (IRSSA)
Please note: If your parent has passed on, it becomes very difficult for the claim to proceed. Seeking legal advice is recommended. Claims submitted on behalf of the estate of a deceased claimant must be submitted by a duly appointed executor or the estate’s legal counsel.
I am looking for a lawyer; can you recommend a good lawyer?
You can find a list of available lawyers here:
http://www.residentialschoolsettlement.ca/English.html
Please Note: Canada will add an additional 15% to your settlement to cover legal fees. We encourage you to ask what different law firms/lawyers charge. Also, Resolution Health Support Workers (RHSW’s) cannot legally advocate on the behalf of a claimant.
What is the difference between a standard track and complex track?
A standard track claim deals with most claims in the IAP process. Complex track claims involve making a claim for income loss or making a claim that other types of wrongful acts caused you serious psychological damage.
How long will my hearing be?
Hearings are scheduled to begin between 9 am and 10 am unless otherwise specified. Hearings can proceed until the end of the work day, but may go longer than 5 pm. There are lunch breaks, and other breaks may occur if the survivor needs a break.
Are hearings confidential?
All those present at the hearing must sign a confidentiality agreement. Claimants may share any information they wish about their experience at the residential school.
What information must claimants keep confidential?
Claimants are required to sign an agreement stating they will not share any additional information they may learn about other persons at the hearing.
What do I do if I have concerns about my Lawyer?
If you have concerns about your lawyers fees, the adjudicator may review the fees to ensure they are fair and do not exceed 30% of your settlement. If you have concerns about the conduct of your lawyer you may contact the Law society at: Telephone: 604.669.2533 Toll-free in BC: 1.800.903.5300
What do I do if I disagree with the Adjudicators decision?
You can ask to have the decision reviewed by a second Adjudicator if you disagree with it.
Many claimants wait until deadlines have passed to call us about concerns, we encourage you to contact us immediately after your hearing if you have any concerns.
What is the difference between a Day School Student and a Day Scholar?
Day School Students attended an Indian Day School and are not included in the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement (unless you attended an Indian Residential School). Day Scholars are persons who attended an Indian Residential School during the day and are eligible for compensation under the Settlement Agreement.
Is an RHSW a counselor?
Although some RHSW’s have a background in counseling, we do not provide counseling services. We do provide emotional support to survivors and their family members throughout the settlement process. We also facilitate and coordinate other support services.
I am an inter-generational survivor and want to know what is available for me.
If you have a parent that is a residential school survivor, counseling services may be available to you through Health Canada, toll free at 1-877-477-0775.