Homeownership & Estate Recovery
If I apply for Medicaid or long-term care services, am I signing over my home to the state?
No. Applying for or receiving Medicaid benefits does not mean you are signing over ownership of your home to the state. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) does not own, manage, or take possession of residential properties simply because someone receives Medicaid benefits. HHSC will never evict individuals or families from their homes. However, after a Medicaid recipient passes away, the state may seek repayment for certain Medicaid benefits through the Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP), depending on the circumstances and any applicable exemptions.
Notices
Why did I receive a notice? MERP may send a notice when information is needed about an estate or possible recovery matter.
Does receiving a notice mean payment is due? Not necessarily. The notice explains why MERP is contacting you and what may be needed next.
Portal account
Do I need an account? You may need an account to upload documents, check case status, or respond securely.
Can an attorney or organization use the portal? Yes. Select the user type that best describes your role during registration.
Documents
What should I upload? Upload the documents requested in your notice or requested by MERP staff.
Should I include Social Security numbers? Do not include unnecessary sensitive information. Follow the instructions in your notice.
Status
How do I check status? Log in to the portal and select the option to check case status.
Why is my case still under review? Some cases require additional review or documentation before a decision can be issued.
Getting help
Contact MERP if you need help understanding a notice, upload request, or next step.
