How to identify yourself as an NIHB client

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Client identification requirements

Client identification documentation must include:

• surname under which you are registered
• given names under which you are registered
• date of birth
• client identification number

If this identification does not include a photo, health service providers may ask to see a piece of photo ID that matches the name on your client identification to protect your health benefits.

You may be asked to present your identification on each visit to ensure that your information is entered correctly and to confirm your identity.

First Nations client identification number

For eligible First Nations clients, ONE of the following client identification numbers is required:

• Indian Act registration number: may be known as "status or treaty card" or official letter marked "Certificate of Indian Status"
• in specific circumstances, instead of a registration number, some First Nations clients may have an identification number issued by NIHB (B-number)

Indian status does not expire. Your registration number confirms your status and can be used to access your NIHB coverage, even if your identification card has expired.

Inuit client identification number

For recognized Inuit clients, ONE of the following client identification numbers is required:

• Government of the Northwest Territories health plan number
• Government of Nunavut health plan number
• NIHB client identification number (N-Number)

Children under 2 years of age

In order to provide time for parents or guardians to complete the registration process to obtain Indian status or recognition by their Inuit land claim organization, special provisions have been made for children under 2 years of age. To access coverage for a child under 2 years old who does not yet have their own client identification number:

• for pharmacy, medical supplies and equipment and medical transportation benefits, claims can be processed by your provider using the client identification number of the parent or guardian, along with the child's full name and date of birth until the child reaches 2 years old
• for mental health counselling or vision care benefits, contact your NIHB regional office to request a temporary NIHB client identification number which will be valid until the child reaches 2 years old
• for dental benefits, contact the Dental Predetermination Centre at 1-855-618-6291 to request a temporary NIHB client identification number which will be valid until the child reaches 2 years old

To ensure continuity of coverage parents or guardians are encouraged to obtain a client identification number for infants prior to the child turning 2 years old.

If the child has received their own client identification number, this number should be used for all benefits.

For more information

• Who is eligible for the Non-Insured Health Benefits program