If my family receives benefits from the government, do I qualify as URM? I am not a full blooded Native American, but am at least 1/4. I am really lost as to how all this stuff works, but I am wondering if receiving benefits translates into being able to put this on my application.

Self-identify.

If you self-identify as an NA, feel free.

Some schools will want tribal affiliation you identify with or receive your benefits under.

I've always shied away from filling in that bubble on my application, and for no real reason. I didn't know what the "rules" were as far as how to identify yourself, and didn't want any advantage that I might not rightfully be given.

If you think you are Native and you've grown up with some part of the culture in your life, it's not undeserving!