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Paid Off Your Car Loan? Here’s How To Get Your Title

Congratulations on paying off your car loan! Now that your car loan is paid off, you can apply for a new clean title in your name. With a clean title, you can do with your vehicle as you wish, sell it, trade it in, or simply keep it. Even if you decide to sell your car after paying off the loan, it’s important to make sure that you get your title cleared before doing so. Keep reading to learn how to get your title after paying off your car loan.

Title-holding vs. non-title-holding states

Each U.S. state is either a title-holding state or a non-title-holding state. When a car is financed, the lender will hold on to the title for the duration of the loan (non-title-holding) or mail the title with the lien directly to the buyer/owner to hold until the loan is paid off (title-holding). 

In non-title-holding states, upon loan satisfaction, the lender will stamp the title as paid and send it to you in the mail with a lien release letter. In title-holding states, upon loan satisfaction, the lender will only mail you a lien release letter. 

If you live in a title-holding state and cannot locate your original title upon receipt of the lien release letter, apply for a duplicate title with the DMV in your state. Once you have the title certificate and lien release letter or letter of non-interest in hand, take these documents, along with your ID and any other documents pertaining to ownership, to the DMV to remove the lien and get a clean title.

What happens if the lender doesn’t mail the title?

This tends to be a common occurrence among vehicle owners who have paid off their car loans. If your lender doesn’t send you your title after the loan is satisfied, reach out to them via mail requesting they return the signed title and a lien release letter, or a letter of non-interest on their letterhead. Once received, take the signed title and lien release or letter of non-interest to the DMV office in your state to remove the lien and apply for a clean title. 

What happens if the lender goes out of business?

If your lender goes out of business, this doesn’t automatically mean that your loan is discharged. When lenders go out of business, they will transfer any active loans to another financial institution. Essentially, the loan is still out there, you just have to find it. Start by researching your lender to see if they were bought out. If they were, contact the new lending company to request your title and lien release or letter of non-interest. Additionally, search for your lender in your state’s Secretary of State database to learn about their entity status and whereabouts.

Paying off your car loan is a huge accomplishment, but it can be overshadowed by title trouble with your lender. If you’ve paid off your loan, do not wait to get your title transferred. As long as your lender is still listed on your title, they still have a security interest in your car. If it’s your car, you deserve a clean title in your name.

Want a CarTitles.com professional to do it for you?

For as little as $159 for most processes, we will save you the headache and prepare all of the car title paperwork needed to get you a new title. Simply choose the title recovery method you’d like to use and we’ll get started!

Select your title recovery method:

Order Vermont Title LoopholeOrder Deceased Owner Title TransferOrder Bonded Title ProcessOrder Abandoned Vehicle ProcessOrder Prior Owner ContactOrder Lien Release Request LetterPGlmcmFtZSBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLmFjdWl0eXNjaGVkdWxpbmcuY29tL3NjaGVkdWxlLnBocD9vd25lcj0xOTQ4ODEyNiZhcHBvaW50bWVudFR5cGU9MjMwNjY0MTAiIHRpdGxlPSJTY2hlZHVsZSBBcHBvaW50bWVudCIgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iODAwIiBmcmFtZUJvcmRlcj0iMCI+PC9pZnJhbWU+PHNjcmlwdCBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vZW1iZWQuYWN1aXR5c2NoZWR1bGluZy5jb20vanMvZW1iZWQuanMiIHR5cGU9InRleHQvamF2YXNjcmlwdCI+PC9zY3JpcHQ+

How To Get A Bonded Title In Missouri

If you are a Missouri resident, a bonded title can be an effective way to recover your vehicle title if you don’t have sufficient evidence of ownership.

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What is a bonded title?

A bonded title is a type of title recovery method that requires the purchase of a surety bond, also known as a vehicle title bond, to secure the ownership of the vehicle. This is because, in order to receive a bonded title, you must have a major lack of proper documentation. The DMV in your state is essentially taking your word that you are the owner of the vehicle. The vehicle title bond provides security for the DMV to assign ownership in the event that there is an ownership discrepancy after the bonded title is issued.

How to get a bonded title in Missouri

Before beginning your bonded title process, make sure that your vehicle meets the eligibility for a bonded title.

Vehicle requirements for a bonded title in Missouri

  • The vehicle does not have any liens or security interests
  • The vehicle was not stolen
  • The vehicle must be at least 7 years old or older
  • The value of the vehicle cannot exceed $3,000
  • There are no records of a prior application for title for the vehicle or the records reflect incomplete or conflicting documentation of ownership

How to apply for a bonded title in Missouri

If your vehicle meets the eligibility requirements of a Missouri bonded title, begin the application process by completing the Application for Missouri Title (DOR-108) and Odometer Disclosure Statement (DOR-3019).

Inspection

The bonded title process requires that all vehicles are inspected prior to the title being issued. To schedule your inspection, contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol or St. Louis City/County Auto Theft Unit. Once your inspection is complete, the officer who inspected the vehicle will complete the Vehicle Inspection Form (DOR-551).

Notarized statement

To be eligible for a bonded title in Missouri, you must provide a statement of facts. This statement must accurately describe the vehicle, provide seller/buyer names, the purchase date, and an explanation as to how you obtained the vehicle and why you do not have the title. This statement must be notarized.

Title bond

Once you’ve completed your inspection and supporting documents, visit your motor vehicle office to determine the value of the bond. This value is typically based on the book value of the vehicle. Most title bonds in Missouri are required to be 2x the value of the vehicle, however, that doesn’t mean it costs that much to purchase. Most title bonds cost around $100-$150 for average-value vehicles.

Once you’ve completed the official documents, passed inspection, and obtained your title bond, submit all of your documents and any state title fees to the Missouri Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Bureau. Thirty days after receiving your application, the Missouri DOR will issue you a new bonded title.

After 3 years of having BONDED stamped on your vehicle title, the bonded title brand will dissipate and you will have a clean Missouri title in your name.

Looking for a quote for your title bond? Get one with ProBonds.com!

Want a CarTitles.com professional to do it for you?

For as little as $159 for most processes, we will save you the headache and prepare all of the car title paperwork needed to get you a new title. Simply choose the title recovery method you’d like to use and we’ll get started!

Select your title recovery method:

Order Vermont Title LoopholeOrder Deceased Owner Title TransferOrder Bonded Title ProcessOrder Abandoned Vehicle ProcessOrder Prior Owner ContactOrder Lien Release Request LetterPGlmcmFtZSBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLmFjdWl0eXNjaGVkdWxpbmcuY29tL3NjaGVkdWxlLnBocD9vd25lcj0xOTQ4ODEyNiZhcHBvaW50bWVudFR5cGU9MjMwNjY0MTAiIHRpdGxlPSJTY2hlZHVsZSBBcHBvaW50bWVudCIgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iODAwIiBmcmFtZUJvcmRlcj0iMCI+PC9pZnJhbWU+PHNjcmlwdCBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vZW1iZWQuYWN1aXR5c2NoZWR1bGluZy5jb20vanMvZW1iZWQuanMiIHR5cGU9InRleHQvamF2YXNjcmlwdCI+PC9zY3JpcHQ+

What Are Lemon Laws & What Do They Cover?

Have you ever purchased a vehicle that turned out to be a lemon? The Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers from faulty or defective vehicles, and there are several aspects to consider when it comes to understanding the lemon law. This guide will provide you with the information you need to know about purchasing a vehicle, lemon law, and what to do if you purchased a lemon car.

What is Lemon Law?

Lemon law is a set of consumer protection laws that are designed to protect buyers of new and used vehicles. The lemon law is based on the premise that it is unfair for a consumer to pay for a vehicle that does not meet the manufacturer’s standards for quality and performance. In most states, the lemon law covers both new and used vehicles, although the terms and conditions may vary from state to state.

The lemon law is also known as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. This act was passed in 1975 and is designed to protect consumers from faulty and defective vehicles. The Act requires that manufacturers provide a written warranty on each new vehicle they sell, and it also sets forth the remedies available to consumers if their vehicle turns out to be a lemon.

The lemon law also provides consumers with certain rights and remedies when dealing with a defective vehicle. These rights include the right to repair, replace, or repurchase the vehicle, as well as the right to receive a refund of any payments made and to receive compensation for any expenses incurred as a result of the defective vehicle.

What Does the Lemon Law Cover?

The lemon law covers a variety of defects, including mechanical defects, defects in design, defects in materials, and defects in workmanship. The lemon law also covers defects that are covered by the manufacturer’s written warranty. In addition, the lemon law may cover defects that are discovered after the vehicle has been purchased or leased.

The lemon law does not cover issues that are a result of normal wear and tear, abuse, or misuse of the vehicle. It also does not cover defects that were disclosed to the consumer prior to the purchase or lease of the vehicle.

How to Determine if Your Vehicle is a Lemon

If you believe your vehicle may be a lemon, there are a few steps you can take to determine whether you may be able to seek remedies under the lemon law. First, you should review the manufacturer’s written warranty to determine what is covered and what is not.

Next, you should document the defect and keep track of all attempts to repair the defect. This includes any repair receipts, any communication with the manufacturer or authorized dealer, and any other documentation related to the defect and the repair attempts.

Finally, you should contact an attorney who specializes in lemon law to discuss your options. An attorney can review your case and help you determine whether you may be entitled to remedies under the lemon law. We are not attorneys and this is not intended to be legal advice.

How to File a Lemon Law Claim

If you believe your vehicle is a lemon, the first step is to contact the manufacturer or authorized dealer to attempt to resolve the issue. If the manufacturer or authorized dealer is unable or unwilling to resolve the issue, you may be entitled to remedies under the lemon law.

To file a lemon law claim, you will need to submit a written complaint to the manufacturer or authorized dealer, as well as any documentation related to the defect and repair attempts. You may also need to file a claim with the state agency that oversees the lemon law in your state.

Once the claim is filed, the manufacturer or authorized dealer will typically review the claim and respond within a certain period of time. If the manufacturer or authorized dealer does not respond or does not agree to provide remedies, you may be able to seek remedies through a court of law. Before filing a claim, consider contacting an attorney specializing in lemon law.

The lemon law is an important consumer protection law and understanding it is essential for vehicle buyers. Understanding the lemon law is essential for buyers of new and used vehicles, as it can provide them with the remedies they need if their vehicle turns out to be a lemon. Armed with the information provided in this guide, you can ensure that you are informed about your rights and remedies when it comes to purchasing a vehicle and the lemon law.

Want a CarTitles.com professional to do it for you?

For as little as $159 for most processes, we will save you the headache and prepare all of the car title paperwork needed to get you a new title. Simply choose the title recovery method you’d like to use and we’ll get started!

Select your title recovery method:

Order Vermont Title LoopholeOrder Deceased Owner Title TransferOrder Bonded Title ProcessOrder Abandoned Vehicle ProcessOrder Prior Owner ContactOrder Lien Release Request LetterPGlmcmFtZSBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLmFjdWl0eXNjaGVkdWxpbmcuY29tL3NjaGVkdWxlLnBocD9vd25lcj0xOTQ4ODEyNiZhcHBvaW50bWVudFR5cGU9MjMwNjY0MTAiIHRpdGxlPSJTY2hlZHVsZSBBcHBvaW50bWVudCIgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iODAwIiBmcmFtZUJvcmRlcj0iMCI+PC9pZnJhbWU+PHNjcmlwdCBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vZW1iZWQuYWN1aXR5c2NoZWR1bGluZy5jb20vanMvZW1iZWQuanMiIHR5cGU9InRleHQvamF2YXNjcmlwdCI+PC9zY3JpcHQ+

VIN Check: How To Get A Full Vehicle History Report

What’s a VIN check and why is it valuable? If you’re looking to buy a car, or learn more about the one you already have, a VIN check can provide you with the vehicle’s history using only the VIN. However, it’s important to know what you can and can’t obtain from a VIN check. Keep reading to learn what information can be obtained from a VIN check, how to get one, and how to request additional driver information. 

How to do a basic VIN check

If you’re looking to obtain basic information about a vehicle, a VIN check can be conducted on various websites. A VIN check is the process of checking your VIN against the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) database. These reports contain basic information regarding a specific vehicle without going through the DPPA process.

What can be revealed with a VIN check?

  • Vehicle specifications (year, make, model, engine, fuel type, MSRP, manufacturer, country of origin, trim, transmission, etc.)
  • Prior title records (state)
  • Theft records (active and prior)
  • Junk records
  • Salvage records
  • Impound/repossession records
  • Export records
  • Insurance total loss claims
  • Lien records
  • Odometer discrepancy/tampering
  • Parts-only branding
  • Lemon law record
  • Prior taxi, rental, or commercial use
  • Rebuilt/reconstructed brand
  • Damage records (flood, hail, fire, etc.)
  • Recall information
  • Manufacturer buy-back information
  • Safety defects
  • Dismantle records
  • Prior test vehicle

Not every VIN check system will provide all of the information above, and some may provide more. A VIN check will not tell you anything about the vehicle owner, or prior vehicle owners. However, a VIN check can tell you where the vehicle was last titled. If you need to obtain additional information not provided by a VIN check, you can use your knowledge of the last titled state to request the official title records from the state DMV agency via a DPPA request.

What is the DPPA? 

The Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) is a federal statute that protects driver information from being accessed through public records. According to the DPPA, to obtain personal driving information, an individual or organization must submit an official form to the state DMV requesting specific information. To obtain information protected by the DPPA, you must disclose your reasoning in your official request. Just because the DMV receives your official request form doesn’t mean they will give out the information. 

Why are driving records private information?

The main reason for driver information being kept private is to keep vehicle owners safe from abusive drivers on the road. Without the protections in place by the DPPA, your license plate is essentially your home address taped to the back of your car. The beginning of the DPPA was sparked by the 1989 murder of actress Rebecca Schaeffer. In 1989, a man named Robert Bardo obtained the address of 21-year-old actress Rebecca Schaeffer through the California DMV. He then used this information to stalk her and ultimately took her life. Sadly, this is one of many cases that lead to the enactment of the DPPA.

How to submit a DPPA request for vehicle information

First and foremost, to obtain DPPA-protected information, you must have a legally valid reason. Additionally, be prepared to provide an explanation as to why you should be allowed access to this information and what exactly you plan to do with it. Just because you request the information doesn’t mean the DMV has to give it out if they’re unsure of your intentions.

As long as you have a legally valid reason, to submit a DPPA request you’ll need to know the state where the vehicle was last titled. Use this information to research the DPPA request form for that particular state, even if it’s not the state where the vehicle is currently located. Motor vehicle records are federally protected, but housed by each individual state so wherever the vehicle was last titled is where the vehicle records are physically located. You won’t be able to obtain motor vehicle information from the California DMV if the vehicle was last titled in Texas. 

A VIN check is a powerful tool that anyone, regardless of ownership status, can access online. Before purchasing a vehicle, consider running a VIN check to ensure the vehicle you’re about to purchase is represented to you properly. If you are interested in additional information about a vehicle’s history, such as the chain of ownership, you can request this information through the state DMV agency where the vehicle was last titled.

Want a CarTitles.com professional to do it for you?

For as little as $159 for most processes, we will save you the headache and prepare all of the car title paperwork needed to get you a new title. Simply choose the title recovery method you’d like to use and we’ll get started!

Select your title recovery method:

Order Vermont Title LoopholeOrder Deceased Owner Title TransferOrder Bonded Title ProcessOrder Abandoned Vehicle ProcessOrder Prior Owner ContactOrder Lien Release Request LetterPGlmcmFtZSBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLmFjdWl0eXNjaGVkdWxpbmcuY29tL3NjaGVkdWxlLnBocD9vd25lcj0xOTQ4ODEyNiZhcHBvaW50bWVudFR5cGU9MjMwNjY0MTAiIHRpdGxlPSJTY2hlZHVsZSBBcHBvaW50bWVudCIgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iODAwIiBmcmFtZUJvcmRlcj0iMCI+PC9pZnJhbWU+PHNjcmlwdCBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vZW1iZWQuYWN1aXR5c2NoZWR1bGluZy5jb20vanMvZW1iZWQuanMiIHR5cGU9InRleHQvamF2YXNjcmlwdCI+PC9zY3JpcHQ+

How To Get A Bonded Title in Mississippi

If you are a Mississippi resident, a bonded title can be an effective way to recover your vehicle title if you don’t have sufficient evidence of ownership.

What is a bonded title?

A bonded title is a type of title recovery method that requires the purchase of a surety bond, also known as a vehicle title bond, to secure the ownership of the vehicle. This is because, in order to receive a bonded title, you must have a major lack of proper documentation. The DMV in your state is essentially taking your word that you are the owner of the vehicle. The vehicle title bond provides security for the DMV to assign ownership in the event that there is an ownership discrepancy after the bonded title is issued.

How to get a bonded title in Mississippi

Before beginning your bonded title process, make sure that your vehicle meets the eligibility for a bonded title.

Vehicle requirements for a bonded title in Mississippi

  • The vehicle is operable
  • The vehicle does not have any liens or security interests
  • The vehicle was not stolen
  • The applicant is a resident of Mississippi

How to apply for a bonded title in Mississippi

If your vehicle meets the eligibility requirements of a Mississippi bonded title, begin the application process by completing the Affidavit of Ownership (MS DOR Form 78013). This form must be notarized. Do NOT sign this form unless in the presence of a notary.

Verify the bond amount

Before continuing the application process, you must first verify with the County Department of Motor Vehicles & Revenue Office that your vehicle qualifies and if so, confirm the amount of the bond. Visit the County Department of Motor Vehicles & Revenue Office and bring your notarized Affidavit of Ownership, along with your driver’s license, bill of sale, fees, and all other supporting documentation.

Title bond

If the County Department of Motor Vehicles & Revenue Office approves your request, you may then purchase your surety bond. This value is typically based on the book value of the vehicle. Most title bonds are required to be 1.5x the value of the vehicle, however, that doesn’t mean it costs that much to purchase. Most title bonds cost around $100-$150 for average-value vehicles. Print and bring the form Certificate of Title (Form 78016) to your bonding agent so that they are able to complete their required portion.

Once you’ve completed the official documents and obtained your title bond, submit all of your documents and any additional fees or requirements to the County Department of Motor Vehicles & Revenue Office. They will process your application and return to you a bonded title in your name.

After 3 years of having BONDED stamped on your vehicle title, the bonded title brand will dissipate and you will have a clean Mississippi title in your name.

Want a CarTitles.com professional to do it for you?

For as little as $159 for most processes, we will save you the headache and prepare all of the car title paperwork needed to get you a new title. Simply choose the title recovery method you’d like to use and we’ll get started!

Select your title recovery method:

Order Vermont Title LoopholeOrder Deceased Owner Title TransferOrder Bonded Title ProcessOrder Abandoned Vehicle ProcessOrder Prior Owner ContactOrder Lien Release Request LetterPGlmcmFtZSBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLmFjdWl0eXNjaGVkdWxpbmcuY29tL3NjaGVkdWxlLnBocD9vd25lcj0xOTQ4ODEyNiZhcHBvaW50bWVudFR5cGU9MjMwNjY0MTAiIHRpdGxlPSJTY2hlZHVsZSBBcHBvaW50bWVudCIgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iODAwIiBmcmFtZUJvcmRlcj0iMCI+PC9pZnJhbWU+PHNjcmlwdCBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vZW1iZWQuYWN1aXR5c2NoZWR1bGluZy5jb20vanMvZW1iZWQuanMiIHR5cGU9InRleHQvamF2YXNjcmlwdCI+PC9zY3JpcHQ+

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