The Heights Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC proudly supports families throughout The Heights, Houston, and the greater Harris County region as they navigate the government and legal requirements involved in the Texas probate process. When a loved one passes away, families must obtain official records, notify multiple government agencies, and complete required filings before probate can move forward.

These responsibilities can feel overwhelming—especially for grieving families unfamiliar with legal procedures. Our Heights probate attorneys help executors, administrators, and heirs complete these tasks accurately, efficiently, and in full compliance with Texas law. From Social Security notifications to property record updates, our office guides families through each step to prevent delays and ensure a smooth probate process.

How Government Agencies Impact Probate in Texas

Probate administration often requires communication with several state, federal, and local agencies, including:

• Social Security Administration (SSA)
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• Texas Vital Statistics (Department of State Health Services)
• Texas Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP)
• Harris County Clerk & Property Records
• Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
• Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD)

Each agency plays a role in confirming death records, resolving benefits, addressing taxes, and transferring property. Our Heights Office helps families manage these interactions efficiently and correctly.

Texas Government & Legal Resources Available Through Our Heights Office

Social Security Administration (SSA) Notifications

The SSA must be notified promptly after a death. Delays or errors can result in benefit overpayments or interruptions.

Our Heights Office assists with:

• Filing official SSA death notifications
• Stopping monthly benefit payments
• Applying for survivor benefits
• Addressing SSI or SSDI eligibility issues
• Providing SSA documentation needed for probate

This helps avoid administrative complications and ensures benefits are handled properly.

IRS Tax Obligations & Support

While Texas does not impose a state estate tax, federal tax obligations may still apply.

We assist executors with:

• Filing the decedent’s final income tax return
• Determining whether the estate requires a tax ID (EIN)
• Filing IRS Form 1041 (estate income tax return)
• Responding to IRS correspondence or audits
• Understanding federal estate tax thresholds
• Coordinating with accountants or CPAs

Proper tax compliance is often required before an estate can be closed.

Texas Vital Statistics – Death Certificates & Records

Certified death certificates are essential for nearly all probate and estate administration tasks.

Our Heights Office assists families by:

• Ordering certified death certificates
• Advising how many copies are typically needed (often 8–12)
• Requesting marriage, divorce, or birth records if required
• Explaining processing timelines and fees

Obtaining these records early helps probate proceed without unnecessary delays.

Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP)

If the deceased received Medicaid long-term care benefits, the state may seek reimbursement through MERP.

We guide families through:

• Understanding MERP notices and deadlines
• Determining eligibility for exemptions (such as a surviving spouse)
• Applying for hardship waivers
• Preparing written responses and documentation
• Protecting heirs from improper estate recovery claims

Proper handling of MERP issues can preserve estate assets.

Harris County Clerk & Property Records

Transferring real property requires accurate filings with the Harris County Clerk’s Office.

Our Heights Office helps with:

• Recording probate court orders
• Filing affidavits of heirship
• Correcting deed or title discrepancies
• Updating property ownership records
• Addressing homestead or appraisal district questions

These steps ensure property is transferred legally and without complications.

Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits for Eligible Families

The Houston area is home to many veterans. Eligible families may qualify for valuable VA benefits.

We assist with:

• Applying for VA burial and memorial benefits
• Determining eligibility for national cemetery placement
• Coordinating military funeral honors
• Retrieving DD-214 service records
• Filing for survivor benefits such as Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

These benefits honor military service and reduce financial burdens on families.

Senior Services & Community Legal Support

Families may also qualify for additional assistance through organizations such as:

• Texas Legal Services Center
• Harris County Area Agency on Aging
• Disability Rights Texas
• Local senior centers and nonprofit organizations
• Caregiver and bereavement support programs

Our Heights Office helps identify resources that provide financial, legal, or emotional support during the probate process.