The Richmond Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC proudly supports families throughout Richmond, Rosenberg, Sugar Land, Katy, and Fort Bend County as they navigate the government agencies involved in the probate process. When a loved one passes away, executors and family members must coordinate with multiple state and federal institutions to obtain records, verify benefits, complete filings, and close accounts. During a time of grief, handling these agencies can feel overwhelming.
Our Richmond probate attorneys guide families through each required government interaction, ensuring documentation is complete, deadlines are met, and probate progresses smoothly. Whether you need help with Social Security notifications, tax filings, death certificate requests, or updating property records, our team ensures each step is handled correctly to avoid delays.
Below is an in-depth overview of the government and legal resources most relevant to families navigating probate in the Richmond and Fort Bend County area.
How Government Agencies Affect the Probate Process
During probate, families may need to communicate with several government agencies, including:
- Social Security Administration (SSA)
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- Texas Department of State Health Services (Vital Statistics)
- Texas Medicaid & MERP (Estate Recovery Program)
- Fort Bend County Clerk & Property Records Office
- Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
- Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
- Fort Bend Central Appraisal District and local tax offices
Each agency plays a vital role in providing information, verifying records, or legally transferring ownership of assets. Misunderstanding these processes—or failing to complete them correctly—can significantly delay probate.
Our Richmond Office helps families navigate each agency efficiently, avoiding unnecessary complications.
Texas Government & Legal Resources Available Through Our Richmond Office
Social Security Administration (SSA) Assistance
The SSA must be notified promptly when someone passes away. Incorrect notification can lead to benefit overpayments and delays in survivor benefits.
We help families with:
- Reporting the death to the SSA
- Applying for survivor or dependent benefits
- Stopping automatic Social Security payments
- Understanding SSI/SSDI rules
- Ensuring proper documentation for probate
Prompt SSA action prevents administrative delays that can affect probate.
IRS and Estate Tax Guidance
Although Texas does not impose an estate tax, estates may still have federal tax obligations.
Our Richmond team assists executors with:
- Filing the decedent’s final federal income tax return
- Filing estate income tax returns (Form 1041)
- Responding to IRS letters or audits
- Understanding federal estate tax thresholds
- Coordinating with tax professionals for accuracy
Proper tax handling is essential for closing the estate legally.
Texas Vital Statistics – Death Certificates & Required Records
Death certificates are required for nearly every step in probate, from filing documents to closing accounts.
Our Richmond Office helps families:
- Determine how many certified death certificates are needed
- Order certificates through the Texas Department of State Health Services
- Obtain additional legal records (marriage, divorce, birth) if needed for probate
- Understand processing times and fees
Having accurate legal documents prevents probate delays.
Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP)
If your loved one received long-term care Medicaid benefits, the state may attempt to recover costs from the estate through MERP.
We guide families through:
- Reviewing and understanding MERP notifications
- Determining whether exemptions apply
- Requesting hardship waivers
- Preparing and submitting formal responses
- Protecting heirs from unnecessary recovery
Proper handling of MERP claims can preserve significant estate assets.
Fort Bend County Clerk & Property Records
Probate often involves updating real property records.
Our Richmond attorneys help families with:
- Recording probate documents with the county
- Obtaining certified deed copies
- Filing affidavits of heirship
- Updating land titles
- Addressing homestead or property tax questions
Accurate property filings ensure that ownership transfers legally and smoothly.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Resources
Veterans and their families may qualify for important benefits, including burial assistance and survivor benefits.
We help families access:
- VA burial and memorial benefits
- Eligibility for national cemetery placement
- Military honors and flag presentation
- DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation) claims
- Retrieval of DD-214 and service records
These resources help families honor their loved one while reducing financial burdens.
Legal Aid & Senior Support Programs
Some Fort Bend County families may benefit from:
- Texas Legal Services Center
- Fort Bend County Area Agency on Aging
- Disability Rights Texas
- Local senior support and community programs
- Faith-based assistance organizations
These programs offer legal, financial, and emotional support during probate.
