Licenses and certificates
Estate recovery
When someone who received Medical Assistance dies, Hennepin County can recover the costs Medical Assistance paid for certain health care services.
We can provide information but cannot give you legal advice. For guidance on estate planning, probate, or property transfers, talk to an attorney.
About estate recovery
Estate recovery applies to:
- Medical Assistance members age 55 and older who received long-term services and supports (LTSS)
- Members of any age who received MA services while residing permanently in a medical institution
- Individuals who received Alternative Care services on or after July 1, 2003
- Individuals who received General Assistance Medical Care services at any age
After Hennepin County receives notice of a death, we may:
- Notify the family of potential Medical Assistance claim
- Request the necessary financial documentation
- File any applicable claims against the estate during probate or other legal proceedings
Estate recovery is required by state and federal law. Money recovered is used to keep Medical Assistance available for future recipients.
Medical assistance estate recovery and liens - State of Minnesota
Medical Assistance clearance certificates
You may need a Medical Assistance clearance certificate to transfer or sell property owned by a deceased person.
The certificate is needed when:
- Selling or transferring ownership of real estate owned by a deceased resident
- Filing a Decree of Descent in probate court
Apply for a clearance certificate
There is no fee for a clearance certificate.
Complete the appropriate form
Be sure to include:
- Copy of death certificate
- Copy of transfer on Death Deed
Submit materials by email or mail
Attach all necessary supporting documents to the completed application.
Hennepin County
Attn: Estate Recovery
300 S. 6th St. MC A155
Minneapolis, MN 55487
After you apply
After we receive your application, processing typically takes up to 15 working days.
If a claim exists, the certificate will list the amount owed. Generally, the claim must be paid or resolved before the property can be transferred or sold.
When you receive the Medical Assistance clearance certificate, return it to the appropriate agency:
- For probate matters, file the clearance with probate court
- For title updates or deed recording, submit the clearance to the recorder’s office where the real estate is located.
- In Hennepin County: Record land title documents
Request additional copies
To request a copy of a claims summary or confirm the Medical Assistance claim amount:
- Submit a written request and release of information to estate.recovery@hennepin.us
- Please include the decedent’s name, date of birth, and MAXIS case number if known
Contact
Hennepin County Attn: Estate Recovery 300 S. 6th St. MC A155 Minneapolis, MN 55487