Federally Recognized Indian Tribes

A federally recognized tribe is a Native American tribe that has a government-to-government relationship with the United States. As of February 2025, there are 574 federally recognized tribes in the United States. Federal recognition is a formal acknowledgment by the U.S. government that a tribe exists as a sovereign entity with certain inherent rights and powers.

Federal recognition has significant legal and political implications for tribes. It allows tribes to:

• Govern themselves: Tribes have the authority to form their own governments, create laws, and regulate their internal affairs.

• Exercise jurisdiction: Tribes have the power to exercise jurisdiction over their citizens and territories, although this can be complex and is subject to certain limitations under federal law.

• Enter into treaties: Tribes have the right to enter into treaties with the U.S. government, which are considered the supreme law of the land.

• Receive federal benefits: Tribes may be eligible for federal funding and services, such as education, healthcare, and housing.

The process for obtaining federal recognition can be complex and lengthy. Tribes must meet certain criteria established by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), including:

• Continuous existence: The tribe must demonstrate that it has existed as a distinct community since historical times.

• Political influence: The tribe must have maintained a governing body and exercised political authority over its members.

• Membership criteria: The tribe must have clear criteria for membership and a well-defined membership base.

• External identification: The tribe must be recognized as a distinct community by other tribes and the broader society.

Federal recognition is a significant milestone for Native American tribes. It affirms their sovereignty and strengthens their ability to protect their cultures, lands, and resources.