The River Oaks Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC proudly assists families throughout River Oaks, West University, Upper Kirby, Montrose, and the Central Houston area as they navigate the government agencies that play a critical role in the probate process. After losing a loved one, families are often overwhelmed by the numerous notifications, filings, and documentation requirements involved in settling an estate.
Executors and heirs must interact with agencies such as the Social Security Administration, IRS, Texas Vital Statistics, Medicaid, and the county clerk’s office—all of which have strict procedures and deadlines. Our River Oaks probate team ensures families complete these steps properly and efficiently to avoid probate delays and financial complications.
Below is a complete overview of Texas government and legal resources relevant to families navigating probate in the River Oaks community.
How Government Agencies Affect the Probate Process
During probate, families may need to communicate with multiple 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 Clerk’s Office & Property Records
- Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
- Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
- Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD)
These agencies help verify legal documents, update property titles, process benefits, and address financial obligations of the estate.
Our River Oaks Office assists executors in navigating each agency accurately and in a timely manner, preventing delays and ensuring legal compliance.
Texas Government & Legal Resources Available Through Our River Oaks Office
Social Security Administration (SSA) Assistance
One of the first tasks after a death is notifying the SSA. Failure to do so can lead to benefit overpayments or delays in survivor benefits.
Our River Oaks probate team helps families:
- Report the death to SSA
- Stop monthly benefits to avoid overpayment
- Apply for survivor, dependent, or spousal benefits
- Understand SSI / SSDI eligibility
- Prepare documentation for probate filings
Proper SSA handling is essential for preventing administrative issues.
IRS and Federal Tax Requirements
Even though Texas does not impose a state estate tax, federal tax obligations may still apply.
We help executors with:
- Filing the decedent’s final individual tax return
- Determining whether to file an estate income tax return (Form 1041)
- Understanding federal estate tax limits and exemptions
- Responding to IRS notices or inquiries
- Coordinating with accountants or CPAs for accuracy
IRS compliance is required before an estate can be legally closed.
Texas Vital Statistics – Death Certificates & Records
Death certificates are required for nearly every probate step, including property transfers, financial transactions, and court filings.
Our attorneys help families:
- Determine how many certified copies are needed
- Request copies from Texas Vital Statistics
- Obtain additional legal records such as marriage or birth certificates
- Understand processing times and associated fees
Ensuring these documents are obtained early helps probate proceed without delays.
Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP)
If your loved one received Medicaid long-term care services, their estate may be subject to recovery under MERP.
Our River Oaks Office guides families on:
- Reviewing MERP notices
- Determining whether exemptions apply
- Applying for hardship waivers
- Preparing official written responses
- Avoiding unnecessary repayment when possible
Proper MERP handling can preserve assets for beneficiaries.
Harris County Clerk & Property Records
Real property transfers are an essential part of probate.
We assist families by:
- Recording probate documents with the Harris County Clerk
- Obtaining certified deed copies
- Filing affidavits of heirship (when applicable)
- Updating legal ownership of homes and land
- Addressing homestead and appraisal district inquiries
Proper record handling protects the estate and ensures clear title transfer.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits
River Oaks is home to many military families. Veterans may qualify for valuable end-of-life and survivor benefits.
We assist with:
- Burial allowances and memorial benefits
- National cemetery eligibility
- Military honors and flag presentation
- Assistance obtaining DD-214 service documents
- Survivor benefits, including DIC
These benefits offer meaningful support and financial relief to military families.
Legal Aid & Senior Assistance Programs
Some families may benefit from additional community or state support resources, such as:
- Texas Legal Services Center
- Harris County Area Agency on Aging
- Disability Rights Texas
- Senior and caregiver support programs
- Local nonprofits and faith-based organizations
We help families identify which programs offer assistance during the probate process.
