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What is a VIN Verification For Vermont Title Loophole?

The Vermont DMV requires a VIN verification for most vehicles that apply for a title using the Vermont title loophole. The temporary suspension of the VIN verification requirement during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic has recently been removed, and now more and more vehicle titling applicants are being held to this requirement. If you are looking to title a car using the Vermont title loophole, it can really save you time when you understand what is required for a successful VIN verification.

What is a vehicle identification number (VIN)?

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is the specific 17-character code that identifies a car. Every car has its own VIN; no two cars are exactly alike. The VIN is assigned to the vehicle when it’s manufactured, and it’s typically stamped on a metal tag and is often located on the driver’s side of the dash, the door jamb, or under the hood. However, some vehicles manufactured before 1981 have a shorter 11-character VIN. This change in regulation grandfathered in certain vehicles and allows for those vehicles to still be titled.

What is a Vermont VIN Verification? Why is it required?

VIN verification is a very important process that verifies that the VIN listed on a vehicle title is the same VIN listed on the physical vehicle. The Vermont VIN verification process is completed using the form Verification of VIN/HIN (VT-010). Many states have adopted a VIN verification policy when titling vehicles and this process is taken very seriously. The reason Vermont requires a VIN verification for the Vermont title loophole is that the vehicle is not required to physically be in Vermont. This means if the VIN wasn’t verified, the applicant can put any VIN on the official application and get a title for any vehicle. The reason for this policy is to protect applicants and the DMV from fraudulent titles.

Is a VIN check the same as a VIN verification?

No, a VIN check and VIN verification are two separate activities. A VIN verification is an official process that involves a government official or representative inspecting the VIN of your vehicle for accuracy. If your application requires a VIN verification, this is not something that can be done online. It must be done in person with an authorized state agent.

A VIN check is an informal process that lets you check your vehicle identification number (VIN) against the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) database. You can use a VIN check to find out whether your vehicle has had any title brands on it, such as salvage or junk. A VIN verification is a more involved and formal process in which you contact an agent from the state motor vehicle department.

The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) is a database that contains information about salvage, junk, and other damage-titled vehicles. Vehicles in this database are not eligible for a title because they have received a title brand such as salvage or junk which deems them inoperable. The database is designed to protect consumers by allowing them to check the history of the vehicle they are intending to purchase or have already purchased.

The Vermont VIN verification for out-of-state residents using the Vermont title loophole has always been a requirement. As you are completing your application for the Vermont title loophole in 2022, we recommend including a VIN verification just in case. If you are submitting an application for a Vermont motorcycle title, you must complete a VIN verification. The Vermont VIN verification helps to make sure that the VIN on your title matches the VIN on your vehicle. Performing this step can save you significant time and help you get your Vermont title faster.

Getting a Title From a Closed Car Dealership

If you recently bought a car from a dealership that is no longer in business, you might have an issue getting the title transferred to your name. Unfortunately, when a dealership is getting ready to go out of business or having financial troubles, they’ll sell vehicles that they don’t have the title for or can’t obtain the title for without paying off a lien first. This way, they avoid extra fees for registration and/or liens since they’re going out of business anyway. So where does that leave the new owner? The dealership is hoping that this will now be their problem, but there are still ways to get your car title from a closed dealership.

States like New Jersey have a clear process for acquiring a car title, should the dealership go out of business before you get the title. If you bought a car without a title from a dealership in New Jersey that went out of business prior to issuing your car title, you can apply to acquire a title from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC). This is a 14 step process that allows for emergency application for vehicle title in the event that your dealership has gone out of business prior to issuing your: title, plates, and/or registration. Each state handles this process differently, be sure to check your state’s requirements before proceeding with any official application.

Other states, like Indiana, have a different process requiring you to contact the dealership directly. If your state requires you to contact the dealership directly, the first step is to look up the business in your state’s Secretary of State database and search for the principal name, registered agent, and addresses. Next, write your letter clearly stating what you need from the dealership and send it by certified mail to the principal, registered agent, and any additional officers listed. Before sending any letters, it’s important to review your state’s requirements to ensure all of the criteria are met and that the correct parties will receive your letter. Sending your letter to multiple contacts within the company increases the likelihood that you will receive a response and provides proof that you attempted to make contact.

Car buying might be one of the most exciting experiences of your life. But if you’re scammed, it can quickly become unpleasant. The best way to prevent yourself from buying a car with no title is to ask for the dealership to show you the physical title. While they may not be able to hand over the title at that time, they can show you that they physically have it. If they’re a reputable dealership, they’ll show you the title. Even if you’ve already bought a car without a title, there are still ways to get the title you deserve.

Top 5 Tips For Buying From Public Auto Auctions

If you’re looking to buy a pre-owned vehicle and want to get it at a lower price than buying from a dealer, you may want to consider purchasing from an auto auction. However, there are a few things you’ll need to consider before you start your search.

Verify the legitimacy of the auction house

When you’re buying a vehicle at an auto auction, make sure that the auction has the necessary licenses to conduct business in your state. This information should be available on their website or when you call to inquire about the auction. Some states require that all businesses collect sales tax for items sold at an auction, so be sure to ask if this is required before bidding. Be sure that they have a license to sell cars and not just general parts or merchandise.

Cross-reference prices

Before you bid, be sure the price of the vehicle reflects its value. If the price seems too high, the auction may be trying to overvalue the vehicle. If the price seems too low, the auction may be attempting to hide problems or damages. Vehicles sold at auction can be in great condition, but it’s more likely that they’re not.

Read vehicle descriptions thoroughly

Don’t just read the description of the vehicle, make sure that it matches the actual car being sold. If there are any problems with the body or a history of mechanical issues, they will be noted in this section of the auction. Compare the mileage, colors, and other specifications listed in the auction with those on the vehicle itself. If you have any questions about the vehicle’s history or condition, ask the seller in advance so that you don’t uncover issues after you’ve purchased it.

Run a VIN check

A VIN, or vehicle identification number, is a 17-character code that identifies a vehicle and includes information about the manufacturer, model, and serial number of the car. Some older vehicles may have fewer than 17 characters but still be considered valid. A VIN reveals whether a vehicle has ever been rebuilt or salvaged. You can’t tell if a VIN is salvaged by just looking at it, so you’ll need to run a VIN check through the National Motor Vehicle Title Information system (NMVTIS). If your VIN is listed in NMVTIS, you won’t be able to get a title, even if the seller signs one over. Additionally, make sure that the decoding process reveals information that matches the vehicle you’re buying. If it doesn’t match the vehicle, it could indicate red flags of a scam.

Make sure the title is transferable

Some auctions feature military vehicles up for auction. It’s important to note that some states do not allow these vehicles on the road and that government-owned vehicles may have different paperwork details than civilian vehicles. Check to see what type of title transfer you will receive, whether the Standard Form SF97 or Transferrable Title is typically the title form provided. The title will provide info about your rights as a new owner, including whether you can keep it on the road in your state. In some states, such as Florida, forms other than the Standard Form SF97 cannot be transferred and must be returned to the original owner. If your state doesn’t allow these types of military vehicles to be on the road, you will not be able to get a title.

When you’re buying a car, don’t underestimate the importance of doing your research about the type of vehicle you want and anything you need to know about your local auctions. Auto auctions can be great places to find deals on cars and trucks. But before you head out to an auction, make sure that you know what you’re bidding on and have enough money set aside for repairs. Also, test drive any vehicle before buying it—you want to make sure that it runs well. With careful preparation and some insider tips, you can buy your next car at a great price at an auto auction.

How To Obtain A Duplicate Car Title

Was your car title lost or stolen? If so, you may need to obtain a duplicate title to prove ownership of your vehicle. A duplicate title is a document that’s needed when the original title is lost, stolen, damaged, or mutilated. It’s imperative that your vehicle is titled in your name because if your name isn’t on the vehicle title, you don’t own it.

Applying for a duplicate or replacement title

The first step to applying for a duplicate title is determining who was that last titled owner. If it’s your name, you can apply for a duplicate title. If your name was not on the original vehicle title, you will not be able to obtain a duplicate title.

Each of the 50 states will have its own set of fees for duplicate title processes. If you are applying by mail, it’s important to check your state fees prior to submitting your paperwork. Most state DMVs accept checks and money orders, but do not mail cash. Many states offer this process for a very small fee, for example, in Minnesota the duplicate title fee is  $7.25, while in Texas the duplicate title fee is a mere $2.00. 

Once you’ve located your DMV and have your funds, you can prepare your application for duplicate or replacement title. Many states, such as Colorado, require that your duplicate or replacement title application be notarized prior to submission, be sure to check with your state regulations prior to submitting your application. 

If you’ve recently moved to a new state and need to get a duplicate title, you will need to apply for a duplicate title in the state where the vehicle was last titled. For example, if your vehicle was last titled in Florida but you now live in Georgia, you cannot get a duplicate title from the Georgia DMV. Similarly, if your vehicle title shows a lien, you will first need to get your lien released before you are able to apply for a title.

If you’re the legal owner of a vehicle and simply need to get your lost title replaced, the duplicate title process is likely for you. Be sure to check your state’s fees and document requirements prior to submitting your application to get a title. Click here for more information on this title process and how CarTitles.com can professionally prepare your title documents.

Santander Lien Release Instructions for Vehicle Title

If you’re wondering, “How do I get a lien release from Santander Consumer USA?” you’ve come to the right article.

What is a lien release?

The process of vehicle lien release is very common. When a lender provides a loan to a borrower in order to purchase a vehicle, they place a lien on the title. The presence of the lien indicates that the loan has not yet been paid off in full. Once the borrower has paid off the loan entirely, the lien can be released. Thus, the lien exists to indicate ownership and secure payment on the loan. Your lender will remain printed on the front of your certificate of title until you have paid off your loan in full; at that time, you can get a title from DMV for your car or sell it or trade it in.

How to obtain a Santander lien release

If your loan has been paid in full and your lender is Santander Consumer USA, this section will describe how to obtain your lien release. If your lender is not Santander Consumer USA, these instructions may also work, but first, verify with your lender to ensure other documents are not required.

Step 1: Compile your lien release request letter and documents

In order to release your lien, you must submit a request in writing to Santander. This process cannot be done over the phone or online. Your lien release letter should include your vehicle information and VIN, your information, and your request for the lien to be removed due to loan satisfaction. You should include a letter of non-interest in the event that there is additional money owed, the lender can decide to remove their security interest. Additionally, we highly recommend that you also include pre-stamped envelopes for your lender to use. Their office likely has envelopes and stamps, but providing this for them may result in a quicker response. By making it easier for them, you’re also making it easier for yourself.

Step 2: Send two copies of your request to Santander via certified mail

Once your documents are created and organized, make three copies. Keep one blank copy for your reference, and mail the other two copies to the following addresses:

Main Address

Payment Address

Santander Consumer USA Inc.

Santander Consumer USA Inc.

P.O. Box 961245

P.O. Box 660633

Fort Worth, TX 76161-1245

Dallas, TX 75266-0633

Why send a copy to both Santander addresses?

Most lenders won’t have an employee standing by to release liens. Employees of the company who have this responsibility also wear other hats. By sending two copies, you’re more likely to reach someone who is able to help rather than hoping one person finds your request and is able to fulfill it.

Step 3: Receive your signed lien release and take it to the DMV

After Santander sends you back a signed lien release or letter of non-interest, take that letter to your local DMV and apply for a title. Most states will use their state title application for this process but verify with a DMV agent before proceeding to ensure all paperwork is completed.

If it’s your car, you deserve your name on the title. If you have a vehicle loan from Santander Consumer USA that is satisfied, you are likely eligible for a lien release. CarTitles.com is an expert at contacting lenders for lien release requests and can help you with your Santander lien release. For specific questions about your lien, contact Santander Consumer USA by visiting their website here.

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