The Hessian Order of Merit (German: Hessischer Verdienstorden) is a civil order of merit, and the highest award of the German State of Hesse.

The order is presented by the Minister-President of Hesse based on nominations from citizens, though self-nominations are not permitted.

The order honours men and women for outstanding contributions to Hesse and may be awarded without regard to residence or citizenship.

[2] The badge of the order is a gold rimmed white enamel cross.

Women wear the cross of the Order on a bow of ribbon below the left shoulder.