How to Collect the "Cash for Clunkers" Rebate

The government's "Cash for Clunkers" rebate program provides consumers with a $3500-$4500 rebate when they trade-in their old car for a new one at any dealership. This article summarizes what you need for the rebate.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Step 1: Know what to bring to the dealer to qualify for the rebate.
   a. Proof of insurance for one year. Your proof must show the name of the insurance company, policy number, VIN and the start and end date of insurance (showing at least 1 year).
   b. Proof of registration for one year. Your vehicle registration must show that the car has been registered for one year.
   c. A completely clear lien. You must provide evidence on the face of the title showing that there is no lien and the title has been cleared (signed and stamped accordingly). An attached lien release from the lien holder is also acceptable.
   d. Your vehicle. It must be less than 25 years old (as of the date on the driver's door/door jamb) and with gas mileage of less than 18 miles per gallon.

2. Step 2: Make sure you and your trade-in vehicle are completely qualified for the rebate. This means the trade-in must be:
   a. In driveable condition
   b. Registered to you for at least one year
   c. Insured for at least one year
   d. Car title in your name for at least one year
   e. Trade-in gets less gas mileage than the car you are attempting to purchase.
   f. You have not previously participated in the "Cash for Clunkers" program.

3. Step 3: Choose your car and receive your rebate. Once the dealer has established that you qualify, you are automatically credited the rebate towards a car with the proper gas mileage. You must leave your old car at the dealership and consequently the dealer must give you your new car once the deal has been made. After the sale, the dealer will take all the information given to him or her by you and hand it all over to the NHTSA. The NHTSA will make sure that you fulfill the requirements and about 10 days later will issue a financial credit to the dealer. As a consumer you must remember that there is no need to fill out a voucher, and there is also no need to give away your social security number.