The Kingwood Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC proudly supports families throughout Kingwood, Atascocita, Humble, Porter, New Caney, and the greater Lake Houston region as they navigate the government agencies involved in the probate process. Following the loss of a loved one, families are often required to coordinate with multiple state and federal offices to gather documents, request benefits, and provide legal notifications. These administrative tasks can feel overwhelming—especially during a time of grief.
Our Kingwood probate attorneys guide executors, administrators, and beneficiaries through every essential government-related step. From obtaining certified records to responding to estate recovery programs, we streamline the process to prevent delays and ensure your probate case stays on track.
Below is a comprehensive overview of the government and legal resources most relevant to families navigating probate in the Kingwood area.
How Government Agencies Affect the Probate Process
Most probate cases in Texas require communication with several agencies, including:
- Social Security Administration (SSA)
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- Texas Department of State Health Services – Vital Statistics
- Texas Medicaid & MERP (Estate Recovery Program)
- Harris County or Montgomery County Clerk Offices
- Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
- Veterans Affairs (VA)
- County appraisal districts and tax offices
Each of these agencies plays a key role in verifying legal records, confirming benefits, updating property ownership, or resolving outstanding obligations.
Our Kingwood Office assists families in identifying which agencies must be contacted, completing the required forms accurately, and avoiding administrative errors that can extend the probate timeline.
Texas Government & Legal Resources Available Through Our Kingwood Office
Social Security Administration (SSA) Assistance
The SSA must be notified promptly once someone passes away. Incorrect or delayed notification can cause financial discrepancies.
We help families:
- Report a death to the SSA
- Halt benefits to prevent overpayment
- Apply for survivor benefits
- Understand SSI/SSDI eligibility
- Determine the benefits available to surviving dependents
Timely action helps ensure probate moves forward without complications.
IRS and Federal Tax Compliance
Even though Texas does not impose its own estate tax, estates may still have federal tax obligations.
Our Kingwood team assists with:
- Filing the decedent’s final income tax return
- Filing an estate income tax return (Form 1041) when required
- Responding to IRS notices or audits
- Understanding federal estate tax thresholds and exemptions
- Coordinating with CPAs or tax professionals
Proper IRS compliance is essential for closing the estate properly.
Texas Vital Statistics – Death Certificates & Records
Certified death certificates are required to begin probate and handle financial and legal matters.
We help families:
- Order the correct number of certified copies
- Understand processing times and requirements
- Request additional records, such as marriage or birth certificates
- Coordinate with funeral homes for initial filings
Accurate documentation helps prevent delays at the probate court.
Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP)
For individuals who received Medicaid long-term care, MERP may attempt to recover costs from the estate.
Our Kingwood Office assists with:
- Reviewing MERP notices
- Determining eligibility for exemptions
- Filing hardship waivers
- Protecting heirs from unnecessary recovery
- Preparing formal MERP responses
Proper handling of MERP claims can preserve estate assets.
County Clerk & Real Property Records
Probate often involves updating or transferring ownership of real property.
We assist families in:
- Recording probate documents
- Obtaining certified copies of deeds
- Filing affidavits of heirship when needed
- Updating property titles after death
- Addressing homestead and tax-related questions
We ensure these filings comply with Harris County or Montgomery County requirements.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Resources
Veterans may be entitled to important benefits that can assist families after death.
We help families access:
- VA burial and memorial benefits
- Military honors and flag presentation
- Eligibility for national cemetery placement
- Survivor benefits (including DIC)
- Assistance in retrieving DD-214 service records
These benefits support families in honoring the veteran’s service while reducing financial strain.
Legal Aid & Senior Support Programs
Some Kingwood-area families may benefit from additional support programs, including:
- Texas Legal Services Center
- Harris County & Montgomery County Area Agencies on Aging
- Disability Rights Texas
- Community senior resource programs
- Faith-based and nonprofit assistance centers
These organizations offer guidance to seniors, caregivers, and families with limited financial resources.
