Lead-free (Bi0.5Na0.5)(1+x)TiO3 ceramics (x = -0.02, -0.01, -0.005, 0, 0.005 and 0.01) were prepared by ordinary sintering. The effect of A-site stoichiometry on the densification, microstructure, dielectric properties, high-temperature impedances, and piezoelectric properties was explored. It was found that the high conductivity of (Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3 (BNT) ceramics should be mainly attributed to the formation of A-site cation vacancies during sintering. Improved physical and electrical properties can be achieved in the sample with A-site cation excess. The control of the stoichiometry proves to be an effective way to improve BNT ceramics for possible application. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.