Enrollment

AM I CHEROKEE? CAN I BE PART OF THE EBCI?

These are frequently asked questions of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Many people want to know about becoming a tribal member based on having a relative of Cherokee descent. Enrollment in the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is governed by Cherokee Code, Chapter 49, Enrollment, and restricts enrollment to the following:

  1. A direct lineal ancestor must appear on the 1924 Baker Roll of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
  2. You must possess at least 1/16 degree of Eastern Cherokee blood. Please note: Blood quantum is calculated from your ancestor listed on the 1924 Baker Roll. No DNA/blood testing is performed or acceptable for this calculation. To have this Roll searched, please contact the Enrollment Office to receive a form to complete and submit.

The Enrollment Office provides a Cherokee genealogy research service searching records prior to the 1924 Baker Roll. These records date back to 1835 and enumerate the members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians within the limits of North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. This service does not aid in determining eligibility for enrollment with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

To obtain the specifics of the research services and for general enrollment questions, you may contact the Enrollment Office at:

  • 828.359.6467
  • 828.359.6465
  • Mailing address: Tribal Enrollment Office, PO Box 2069, Cherokee, NC 28719
  • Physical address: Tribal Enrollment Office, 808 Acquoni Road, Cherokee, NC 28719 (Note: not a mailing address)
  • Email: nakewelc@nc-cherokee.com

Enrolled members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians may access the following forms:

  • Enrollment Application for Membership of Minor Children
  • Change of Address Form – Enrollment Record Update Form
  • Federal Tax Withholding Form
  • Waiver of Per Capita Form
  • Direct Deposit Form
  • Form W-9
  • Application for Early Distribution for Unmet Educational or Healthcare Needs
  • Normal Distribution – 18- and 21-Year Application

Each form is self-explanatory. If you should have questions, feel free to contact the Enrollment Office. The notarized, original forms should be mailed to the Tribal Enrollment Office, PO Box 2069, Cherokee, NC 28719.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a CDIB Card?
    A Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood card is commonly referred to as a CDIB card, and is issued by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This card certifies the degree of Indian blood.
  • Can I take a DNA test to prove my Cherokee heritage?
    Unfortunately, DNA testing has not advanced to the point of determining tribal affiliation. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians accepts DNA testing only in regard to the parentage of an applicant.
  • Can I be a member of two tribes?
    The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians prohibits dual enrollment.
  • How long does the enrollment process take?
    Generally the total process takes eight to ten weeks. Unique cases may require an extended amount of time.
  • What is the Indian Child Welfare Act?
    The Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, 25 U.S.C.§ 1901 et seq., also known as the ICWA, states that there are federal standards governing the removal of Indian children from their families and the placement of such children in foster or adoptive homes.

    The purpose of the ICWA is to prevent the breakup of Indian families, and as a result, their tribes. The ICWA was implemented as a result of the wholesale removal and adoption of Indian children and the loss of their tribal rights. Adoption frequently meant tribes lost touch with members who had been adopted, and many adopted children searched to no avail when they sought their family roots.

    The Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, 25 U.S.C. § 1901 et seq., also known as the ICWA, states that there are federal standards governing the removal of Indian children from their families and the placement of such children in foster or adoptive homes.

    The purpose of the ICWA is to prevent the breakup of Indian families, and as a result, their tribes. The ICWA was implemented as a result of the wholesale removal and adoption of Indian children and the loss of their tribal rights. Adoption frequently meant tribes lost touch with members who had been adopted, and many adopted children searched to no avail when they sought their family roots.

    Under the ICWA, placement preference is given to Indian foster and adoptive parents. Both non-Indian foster and adoptive parents are allowed. The parents or guardians of Indian children, and the tribes they belong to, have specific rights under ICWA. You may contact the Family Safety Program at 828.359.1520 with questions.

Downloadable Forms