Transfer of Title After Death
The last thing you want to deal with after the death of a loved one is a lot of paperwork and clerical issues. Still, in the event that a vehicle or other titled property, such as land or a house, has been left to you, you should understand the process for legally transferring the item into your name. While it's important to check for any specific local laws regarding title transfers, the process is essentially the same across the United States.
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Things You'll Need
- Letter from the probate court indicating ownership
- Photo identification
- Copy of death certificate
Instructions
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Transfer a Vehicle Title
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1
Locate your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you live in a small town, titles might be held at your town office or at the DMV in the nearest city.
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2
Go to the DMV and explain the situation to the customer service agent and request the required paperwork.
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3
Fill the paperwork out accurately and completely, and present the completed forms along with your identification and supporting documents.
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4
Pay any fees and receive confirmation. You may have to wait for confirmation by mail, so hold onto your receipt.
Transfer a Property Title
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5
Take all paperwork to your local registry of deeds. In large cities, this office might be located at city hall, and in small towns,it is usually located at the town or county courthouse or town hall.
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Provide proof that you are the beneficiary of the property by presenting photo identification, the letter from the probate court, or the will and death certificate of the deceased. If you are the next of kin and the deceased did not prepare a will, you can use your marriage or birth certificate and the death certificate as proof.
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Fill out all required paperwork and pay any applicable fees.
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Tips & Warnings
Contact your local probate court and a lawyer if you have any questions.
References
- Photo Credit paperwork image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
